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15 Fast Food Failures

From the Arch Deluxe to the Wendy's buffet and beyond

By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 20, 2010 7:34 AM CDT

(Newser) – Taco Bell is debuting its new shrimp tacos, a decision that seems destined to go down in the annals of fast food failures. But it won’t be alone. Marcus Leshock recalls the 15 biggest fast food product disasters at Chicago Now. Here's a sampling:

  • McLobster: For some reason, McDonald’s—at least in select northeastern cities—sees itself as the kind of classy place that should serve lobster, on a bun.
  • Burger King table service: BK also tried to make itself classier in the early ‘90s when the chain introduced table service—“you know, like a real restaurant!”
  • Wendy’s Superbar: Instead of going for the “fancy” vibe, Wendy’s introduced a buffet—and it had everything from salad to Mexican food to pizza.

  • McSpaghetti: Though it’s supposedly bland and not popular, McDonald’s still serves it in certain places.
  • McLean Deluxe: In an effort to be healthier, McDonald’s added seaweed to its burgers. Enough said.
  • Bell Beefer: Taco Bell tried its hand at burgers—sort of—with this sloppy-joe-like creation.
  • Hula Burger: Another inspired McDonald’s alterna-burger featured a pineapple slice instead of meat.
  • Arch Deluxe: “The crown jewel of McFailure,” this burger for sophisticated adults even used “grown-up mustard.” The only problem? “It just didn’t taste very good.”
For the complete list, click here.

Oh goodie, the McLobster is back!
Oh goodie, the McLobster is back!   (Flickr)
McSpaghetti is bizarre enough on its own, but paired with fried chicken?
McSpaghetti is bizarre enough on its own, but paired with fried chicken?   (Flickr)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
Burger King attempts to sell you on its table service. And its popcorn.   (chandeliermuseings)
For some reason, the Wendy's Superbar didn't stick.   (2RadicalDudez)
Most people don't go to McDonald's expecting to find lobster.   (applejax2006)
A really radical commercial for the McDLT.   (scratchbomb77)
The Arch Deluxe was a burger for sophisticated people.   (SlefTiltedAblum)
The McLean Deluxe may have been 100% delicious, but it was not 100% beef.   (Market42Fan)

« Prev« Prev | Next »Next »
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 16 comments
radbrehak
Oct 12, 2010 11:30 AM CDT
The Wendy's SuperBar was amazing. Where else could a young boy growing up in Ohio get nachos, pasta, iceberg lettuce and vanilla pudding at one sitting? I feel that those who grew up with the Bar are now the core-consumer at Hometown Buffet.
browzman
Oct 11, 2010 1:34 PM CDT
Customers don't get sick of eating it but may be getting sick by eating it for prolonged period - so make it sporadically available - nice to know they're concerned about our health
bleepbleep61
Mar 21, 2010 1:10 PM CDT
Settle Down , People !! Yes the McLobster is sold up here in the Eastern Great White North ! (Canada) But that's not to say it's any good !! Likely target ... Summer tourists ... Reminds me of a cartoon from awile back ... MMMmmmmm .... 55 billion sold ; 38 billion eaten ; 23 billion digested !!!! Bring back the Mc Crap !!!
 

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