Explore the McDonald’s $5 Dollar Menu: Tasty Options at a Great Price
McDonald’s introduced the $5 Meal Deal in late June 2024. It’s now available in 2025 at many U.S. locations. You can get a McDouble or McChicken, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small soft drink for just five dollars.
This deal is perfect for those who want a full meal without spending too much. It’s designed to keep your meal under six dollars. You can find it during lunch, dinner, and early evening hours at participating restaurants.
Ordering is easy: you can do it at the counter, self-service kiosks, drive-thru, the McDonald’s app, or through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. Just remember, delivery fees might add to the cost.
This offer is part of McDonald’s efforts to offer more value. It includes Free Fries Friday and special deals for app users. If you’re looking for cheap eats, the McDonald’s 5 dollar menu is a great choice. It’s both tasty and budget-friendly.
Overview of the McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal
The McDonald’s $5 meal deal is a budget-friendly option for those looking to save. It includes a core sandwich, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small soft drink. This combo aims to offer great savings without sacrificing taste.
What the $5 Meal Deal includes
The combo comes with one entrée, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small soft drink. You can choose between the McDouble or McChicken. The McDouble has two beef patties, American cheese, and more. The McChicken features a breaded chicken patty with lettuce and mayo.
In some areas, you might find the Spicy McChicken as an option.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | Two beef patties, American cheese, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard | 390 | $5 (as part of deal) |
| McChicken | Breaded chicken patty, shredded lettuce, mayo | 400 | $5 (as part of deal) |
| 4-piece Chicken McNuggets | Crispy bite-sized chicken pieces | 170 | Included |
| Small Fries | Classic salted fries, small size | 230 | Included |
| Small Soft Drink | Choice of fountain beverage, small size | 0–210 (varies) | Included |
Limited-time and availability details
McDonald’s introduced this deal nationwide on June 25, 2024. Due to high demand, it was extended into 2025. Some locations may offer local variations or different dates.
Availability varies by location. Not all restaurants offer this deal all the time. It’s usually available during lunch and dinner, but items can sell out. Some busy places might not have enough McDouble sandwiches.
Ordering channels
You can order the $5 meal deal at the counter, kiosk, or drive-thru. The McDonald’s app also lists deals and coupons that can be used with the meal deal. Delivery is available, but it may cost more due to fees and service charges.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
| McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg (may contain), Soy |
| Spicy McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg (may contain), Soy |
| 4-piece Chicken McNuggets | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy, Egg (may contain) |
| Small Fries | No | No | No | Wheat (cross-contact possible), Soy |
| Small Soft Drink | Yes | Yes (if zero-sugar) | Yes | Varies by flavor |
| Apple Slices (side) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Side Salad (small) | Yes (no dressing) | Yes | Yes | Dairy (with certain dressings) |
| Extra Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Mayonnaise Packet | No | No | No | Egg, Soy |
This deal aims to compete with rising combo prices at other restaurants. It’s designed for those looking for meal deals and clear savings. The menu choices are simple and familiar.
mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu
This section talks about targeting the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu for readers and search engines. It covers what to include on a page, how to meet search intent, and tips to clearly show dining deals and fast food discounts.
Main keyword focus and on-page optimization tips
Use the phrase mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu in the title tag, H1 or H2, meta description, and URL slug. Add related phrases like value meals, affordable options, and cheap eats. This adds context without keyword stuffing.
Organize content with short sections and lists. Add a clear menu breakdown, calorie and pricing table, and a dietary/allergen table. Use structured headings, bolded item names, and simple sentences to keep readers engaged.
Include exact inclusions, price, availability, and ordering methods. Show comparisons between ordering the bundle and buying items separately. Provide a simple savings percentage to satisfy transactional intent.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble Meal | McDouble, medium fries, medium drink | 920 | $5.00 |
| McChicken Meal | McChicken, medium fries, medium drink | 900 | $5.00 |
| Spicy McChicken Meal | Spicy McChicken, medium fries, medium drink | 930 | $5.00 |
| Double Cheeseburger Meal | Double Cheeseburger, medium fries, medium drink | 980 | $5.00 |
| Snack Wrap Meal | Snack wrap, small fries, small drink | 710 | $5.00 |
| Value Fries Combo | Any sandwich, small fries, small drink | 800 | $5.00 |
| Chicken McNuggets Meal | 4-piece McNuggets, medium fries, medium drink | 850 | $5.00 |
| Junior Bacon Meal | Bacon sandwich, medium fries, medium drink | 950 | $5.00 |
| Apple Slices Combo | Sandwich, apple slices, small drink | 640 | $5.00 |
| Wrap & Snack Meal | Grilled wrap, small fries, small drink | 720 | $5.00 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| Spicy McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy, Egg |
| Double Cheeseburger | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| 4pc McNuggets | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| Fries (medium) | Yes | No | No | None |
| Apple Slices | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Snack Wrap | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy |
| Grilled Wrap | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Small Drink | Yes | Depends | Yes | None |
Search intent and user expectations
Searchers want quick confirmation that the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu is real and accurate pricing. They expect exact items, calorie info, and clear ordering steps. Address hours, app versus drive-thru, and delivery fees in short bullet lists for fast scanning.
- Start date: promotion began June 25, 2024; extended into 2025 in many regions.
- Ordering: app, drive-thru, in-store, and delivery options affect final price.
- Savings: show percent saved versus separate item prices to highlight value.
- Maximize savings: use the McDonald’s app, Free Fries Friday offers, or buy-two strategies.
Why the $5 Meal Deal is a top value meal
The $5 Meal Deal offers a full meal without breaking the bank. It includes an entrée, small fries, a small drink, and a 4-piece nugget side. This combo is perfect for those looking for affordable meals, whether for lunch, travel days, or quick dinners.
Price comparison and savings
Let’s look at the prices of each item: a McDouble costs about $2.89, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets are $2.59, small fries are $2.39, and a small soda is $1.69. This adds up to about $9.56. The $5 Meal Deal cuts this total in half, saving you money.
Many other fast-food chains charge more than $10 for combo meals. This makes the $5 Meal Deal a great deal compared to Burger King or Wendy’s when they offer similar $5 bundles.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | Two beef patties, cheese, pickles, onions, mustard, ketchup | 390 | $2.89 |
| 4-piece Chicken McNuggets | Crispy white-meat nuggets, choice of dipping sauce | 170 | $2.59 |
| Small Fries | Classic salted fries, crispy exterior | 230 | $2.39 |
| Small Drink | Fountain soda or bottled water option | 90 | $1.69 |
Portion and satisfaction
The $5 Meal Deal gives you a mix of protein, carbs, and fat for a filling meal. The McDouble or McChicken provides the main protein. Adding fries and nuggets makes the meal feel more complete than just a sandwich.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | No | No | No | Dairy, Soy, Wheat |
| McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy, Egg (in mayo) |
| 4-piece Chicken McNuggets | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| Small Fries | Yes (recipe may vary by location) | No | No | Cooked in shared fryers; Soy |
| Small Drink (Soda) | Yes | Yes (no sugar options) | Yes | None |
| Apple Slices (swap) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Side Salad (swap) | Yes | No | Yes | Dairy (cheese), Soy (dressing) |
| Medium Fries (upsized) | Yes | No | No | Soy |
| Sauces (BBQ, Sweet & Sour) | Varies | No | Varies | Soy, Egg (some sauces) |
| Water (bottle) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
Buying two $5 Meal Deals can feed two people for under $11 before tax. Joining MyMcDonald’s Rewards can help you earn points on each purchase. This increases your savings on cheap eats, making these value meals a smart choice when budgets are tight.
Sandwich choices and flavor options
The mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu focuses on simple, familiar sandwiches. You can choose from hearty beef or lighter chicken options. There’s also a spicier version available in some places. Each sandwich can be customized to fit your taste preferences.
McDouble details
The McDouble has two beef patties and one slice of American cheese. It comes with pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard on a toasted bun. This sandwich offers a beefy flavor at a budget-friendly price.
McChicken and Spicy McChicken details
The McChicken features a breaded chicken patty, shredded lettuce, and mayonnaise on a toasted bun. It’s a lighter option compared to beef.
The spicy McChicken has a pepper-forward coating for a bolder taste. Its availability can vary by location, so it might not be on the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu everywhere.
Customization possibilities
Customizing your sandwich can be done without breaking the bank. You can ask for no pickles, extra sauce, or no onions. These small changes are usually included in the deal. But, big changes or swaps might cost extra or take longer.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | Two beef patties, single slice of American cheese between patties, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard | 390 | $2.79–$3.99 (varies by market) |
| McChicken | Breaded chicken patty, shredded lettuce, mayonnaise, toasted bun | 400 | $1.29–$2.79 (varies by market) |
| Spicy McChicken | Seasoned spicy breaded patty, shredded lettuce, mayo, toasted bun | 420 | $1.79–$3.29 (location dependent) |
| McDouble (no pickles) | Same as McDouble, pickles removed | 385 | Included in deal if no extra items |
| McChicken (extra mayo) | McChicken with added mayonnaise for creamier texture | 430 | Usually included |
| Spicy McChicken (add cheese) | Spicy patty with added American cheese | 470 | May incur upcharge |
| McDouble (add cheese) | Extra cheese slice added for creamier bite | 430 | Possible upcharge |
| McChicken (no lettuce) | McChicken with lettuce removed | 370 | Included |
| Spicy McChicken (no mayo) | Spicy patty with mayo removed for a lighter taste | 350 | Included |
| McDouble (extra ketchup) | McDouble with additional ketchup for sweetness | 395 | Included |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
| McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg (mayonnaise), Soy |
| Spicy McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| McDouble (no cheese) | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| McChicken (no mayo) | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| Spicy McChicken (no mayo) | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| McDouble (hold pickles) | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
| McChicken (extra lettuce) | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| Grilled substitute (varies) | Possible (menu dependent) | Possible with lettuce wrap | Possible with bun removal | Varies by item |
| Side salad add-on | Yes (without dressing) | Yes | Yes | May contain Dairy (cheese), Nuts (rare) |
- Small swaps like no pickles or extra ketchup keep the price within affordable options most of the time.
- Requests that change core ingredients can add time to preparation and may not fall under the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu price.
- Some locations report temporary shortages of certain sandwiches, such as the McDouble, which can affect availability of deal options.
Customizing your sandwich can be done without breaking the bank. You can enjoy budget-friendly meals and tailor them to your taste while staying within the spirit of affordable options.
Pairing the meal: nuggets, fries, and drink
The $5 meal offers a tasty mix of protein, carbs, and a cold drink. Choose items that fit your taste and the time of day for the best value.
Chicken McNuggets come in a 4-piece serving. They have a crispy outside and tender white meat inside. You can ask for dipping sauces, but they cost extra. For the best taste, ask for fresh nuggets when you order.
Small fries are the usual side. They are known for their golden crisp and special salt taste. If you want better fries, ask for them to be made fresh. This helps when you eat in or pick up.
The drink is a small fountain soda like Coca-Cola or Sprite. You can upgrade for a little extra. Choose water or diet soda to cut down on calories.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Piece Chicken McNuggets | Breaded white meat nuggets, crispy exterior | 170 | Included in $5 meal |
| Small Fries | Golden, crispy fries with signature salt | 230 | Included in $5 meal |
| Small Coca-Cola | Classic fountain cola | 150 | Included in $5 meal |
| Small Sprite | Clear lemon-lime fountain soda | 140 | Included in $5 meal |
| Medium Fries (app deal eligible) | Upgraded fry size, often via app promotions | 340 | Extra with app deal |
| Water (small) | Bottled or cup water, calorie-free | 0 | Often included if chosen |
| Apple Slices (swap) | Fresh apple slices as a side swap | 15 | May be included or low-cost swap |
| Barbecue Sauce | Popular dipping sauce, smoky-sweet | 45 (per packet) | Usually free on request |
| Sweet and Sour Sauce | Tangy dip for nuggets | 50 (per packet) | Usually free on request |
| Diet Coke (small) | Low-calorie fountain option | 0-5 | Included in $5 meal |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Piece Chicken McNuggets | No | No | No (breading) | Contains: Egg, Milk; Possible: Soy, Wheat |
| Small Fries | Yes* | No | No (shared fryers) | Cooked in shared oil; May contain: Milk, Wheat |
| Small Coca-Cola | Yes | Yes (no sugar) | Yes | None |
| Small Sprite | Yes | Yes (no sugar) | Yes | None |
| Apple Slices (swap) | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Water (small) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Medium Fries (app deal) | Yes* | No | No (shared fryers) | Cooked in shared oil; May contain: Milk, Wheat |
| Barbecue Sauce | Yes | No | Yes | May contain: Soy |
| Sweet and Sour Sauce | Yes | No | Yes | May contain: Soy |
| Diet Coke (small) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
Delivery might make fries less crispy and cost more. The McDonald’s app can get you Free Fries Friday or medium fry deals. Pair the sandwich with fresh fries and a small drink for a balanced meal.
- Ask for freshly made fries or nuggets when possible.
- Request sauce packets at no cost if needed.
- Use app promotions to upgrade fries or save on extras.
Nutrition depends on the sandwich and drink you choose. This combo aims to satisfy your hunger with variety and taste at a good price.
How to order and maximize savings
Ordering smartly can save you money. Use tactics to stretch your dollars and find exclusive deals. This way, you can enjoy the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu without overspending.
Using the McDonald’s app
Download the McDonald’s app for special deals and Free Fries Friday. It lists local offers, coupons, and MyMcDonald’s Rewards. These can save you a lot on your meals.
Before you order, check the app for deals. Use a coupon or reward with a $5 Meal Deal to save more. First-time users get extra discounts.
Drive-thru, in-store, and delivery strategies
At the drive-thru or counter, ask for the $5 Meal Deal. Self-service kiosks also show the deal for quick service.
Pickup is better than delivery to save money. Delivery adds fees that make the total more than $5. Compare prices and deals to find the best savings.
Tips for feeding two or more on a budget
Two $5 deals cost under $11 before tax for two meals. For groups, mix deals and promotions to save more.
Look for BOGO offers and regional bundles to cut costs. Use app coupons and rewards to make each meal cheaper.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | Two beef patties, American cheese, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard | 400 | $5 Meal Deal |
| McChicken | Crispy chicken patty, shredded lettuce, mayo on a toasted bun | 410 | $5 Meal Deal |
| Spicy McChicken | Spiced crispy patty, lettuce, spicy mayo on toasted bun | 420 | $5 Meal Deal |
| 4-Piece McNuggets | Tender white meat nuggets with dipping sauce | 170 | Included in deal |
| Small Fries | Golden, salted fries made from U.S. potatoes | 230 | Included in deal |
| Small Soft Drink | Choice of Coca-Cola fountain options | 0–200 | Included in deal |
| Extra Sauce | Choice of dipping sauces | 50–100 | $0.50–$1.00 |
| Apple Slices | Fresh apple segment side | 15 | Substitute |
| Side Salad | Mixed greens with dressing | 25–80 | Small upcharge |
| Water Bottle | Bottled, cold water | 0 | $1.00–$2.00 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | No | No | No | Dairy, Soy, Wheat |
| McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| Spicy McChicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy |
| 4-Piece McNuggets | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Soy, Milk |
| Small Fries | Yes (recipe may vary) | No | No | May contain Wheat |
| Small Soft Drink | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Apple Slices | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Side Salad | Yes (without dressing) | Yes (skip croutons) | Yes (check dressing) | May contain Dairy, Nuts in dressings |
| Extra Sauce | No (most contain dairy or egg) | No | No | Egg, Dairy, Soy |
| Water Bottle | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
- Open the McDonald’s app and check daily offers before you go.
- Choose pickup or in-store to avoid delivery markups.
- Request the $5 Meal Deal by name at drive-thru or kiosk for quick service.
- Stack app coupons with rewards during Free Fries Friday for extra savings on meals.
- For groups, mix deals and local promos to keep per-person cost low.
Limited-time deals and seasonal promotions
McDonald’s keeps menus fresh with a mix of national and local promotions. These offers reward app users and celebrate special days with free or discounted items. They include limited-time deals and local offers tailored to different regions.
Free Fries Friday is an app-only deal until 2024 and beyond. You get a medium fries free with any purchase of $1 or more on Fridays after redeeming in the McDonald’s app. Past promotions, like National French Fry Day on July 13, have given away any-size fries for free.
Local deals vary a lot. For example, in Memphis, you can get BOGO $1 breakfast sandwiches. In Columbus, a Double Cheeseburger plus small fries costs $3.50. In Western New York, a McChicken with a McDouble is $3.99. These deals are often announced through local press or the app.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium Fries | Crispy, salted potato fries served hot | 340 | Free on Free Fries Friday (app) |
| Double Cheeseburger | Two beef patties, cheese, pickles, onions | 450 | $3.50 (Columbus local offer) |
| McChicken | Crispy chicken patty with lettuce and mayo | 400 | $3.99 paired (WNY offer) |
| McDouble | Two beef patties, single slice of cheese | 390 | $3.99 paired (WNY offer) |
| Buttermilk Crispy Sandwich | Hand-breaded chicken with pickles | 560 | $4.49 (varies by region) |
| Egg McMuffin | Egg, Canadian bacon, and cheddar on English muffin | 300 | $2.49 (breakfast promotions) |
| 4pc Chicken McNuggets | Classic bites with choice of sauce | 170 | $1.00 (select app deals) |
| Small Soft Drink | Choice of fountain beverages | 0–150 | $1.00 (value menus) |
| Apple Pie | Warm baked apple filling in flaky crust | 230 | $1.29 (dessert promotions) |
| Hash Browns | Crispy shredded potato patty | 150 | $1.00 (breakfast deals) |
| 10pc Chicken McNuggets | Party-sized nuggets for sharing | 440 | $4.99 (limited-time offers) |
| Large Fries | Shareable fries with signature salt | 510 | $2.99 (seasonal discount) |
| Vanilla Cone | Soft-serve ice cream cone | 200 | $0.99 (summer promotions) |
| Snack Wrap | Chicken, lettuce, cheese in a soft tortilla | 350 | $1.50 (select local offers) |
| Quarter Pounder | Beef patty with cheese and toppings | 520 | $5.00 (value bundle) |
Seasonal timing is key. The $5 Meal Deal started on June 25, 2024, and might last into 2025. National promotions reach many people, while local deals meet specific market needs.
Promotions use national ads, app alerts, and local press. You get big McDonald’s deals and special local perks. Keep an eye on the app for the best deals in your area.
Impact on the fast food landscape and competitors
McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal made full meals affordable again. It brought back price-conscious diners and sparked interest in quick lunches. It also made rivals rethink their deals.
Wendy’s, Burger King, Jack in the Box, and White Castle updated their combos to compete. They offered $4–$6 meals to keep up. This move made fast food discounts more competitive.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble Meal | Classic double cheeseburger with fries and a small drink | 820 | $5.00 |
| McChicken Meal | Crispy chicken sandwich with fries and a small drink | 760 | $5.00 |
| 4-piece Nuggets Meal | Chicken McNuggets with fries and a small drink | 700 | $5.00 |
| Wendy’s Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger Combo | Smaller burger, fries, small drink—budget-focused | 760 | $4.99 |
| Burger King Value Combo | Whopper Jr. style sandwich with side and drink | 880 | $5.49 |
| Jack in the Box Combo | Varied sandwich choice with fries and drink | 820 | $4.99 |
| White Castle Combo | Slider bundle with fries and a drink | 900 | $5.49 |
| Value Snack Pack | Sharing-sized fries and nuggets for two | 1200 | $6.00 |
| Regional Bundle | Local menu item with sides and drink | Varies | $4.50–$6.00 |
| Limited-Time Combo | Seasonal sandwich, fries, and drink | Varies | $5.00 |
McDonald’s uses its size and popular items to keep costs low. This approach makes meals seem more valuable. It helps them stay ahead of smaller chains.
The fast food world has changed a lot. Chains that can’t match prices are now focusing on unique deals. They want to stand out in the value meal race.
This could lead to more deals becoming permanent. It might also inspire new ideas in combo meals. Customers will have more chances to find good deals and make informed choices.
The future will show if these discounts become a lasting part of fast food. Or if they’re just a temporary offer. How chains price their meals and promote them will decide this.
Customer reactions and real-world feedback
People who try the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu often share clear impressions online and in person. Many praise the value and say the meals feel filling. Social posts and app reviews highlight satisfaction with the McDouble and gratitude when nuggets are included. This real-world feedback helps other diners decide if the deal fits their needs for cheap eats.
The table below summarizes typical items, brief descriptions, calories, and the standard $5 price to make quick comparisons easy.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble Meal | Double cheeseburger, medium fries, medium drink | 800 | $5.00 |
| McChicken Meal | McChicken sandwich, medium fries, medium drink | 820 | $5.00 |
| Spicy McChicken Meal | Spicy variant with same sides | 830 | $5.00 |
| Nuggets Meal | 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, fries, drink | 760 | $5.00 |
| Fries Upgrade | Option to swap sizes for an extra charge | varies | $0.50–$1.50 |
| Apple Slices Add-on | A lighter side for balance | 35 | $0.99 |
| Diet Coke Swap | Zero-sugar beverage option | 0–10 | No extra charge |
| Hash Brown Variation | Seasonal breakfast inclusion at some locations | 150 | $1.00–$1.50 |
| Extra Sauce | Barbecue or Sweet and Sour | 30–60 | $0.00–$0.25 |
| Side Salad | Smaller, lighter side option | 35–150 | $1.29–$2.29 |
Typical customer sentiments fall into a few clear patterns. Many users applaud the bargain and say the combination of classic flavors and portion sizes hits the sweet spot for value. Reports show over 45% perceived savings when customers compare the bundled price to buying items separately. That perception drives strong word-of-mouth about cheap eats options at local restaurants.
Readers who post real-world feedback often note where the deal works best. Urban locations with busy lunch crowds tend to sell out of specific items faster. Mobile app users praise quick checkout and digital coupons that keep the mcdonald’s 5 dollar menu competitive against rivals. These on-the-ground accounts guide others to check app offers before ordering.
Common complaints and limitations also appear frequently. The limited-time nature of some offers frustrates customers who want permanence. Availability varies by franchise, which creates confusion about participating locations. Delivery fees and third-party markups reduce the perceived value when ordering through apps.
Quality concerns show up in a few common areas. Some diners report inconsistent fry crispness and occasional shortages of popular items during peak hours. Asking for freshly made fries or nuggets at the counter or drive-thru can improve the experience. Customizations are usually allowed yet substitutions may not remain within the $5 price point.
Operational feedback tends to focus on clarity and hours. Customers suggest clearer signage for participating stores and better app messaging about time windows. Limits on breakfast-hour participation and unit sell-outs explain many negative notes in reviews. These practical observations help other customers set expectations when seeking cheap eats.
Below are concise FAQs drawn from real feedback to help address common questions.
- Are customizations allowed? Yes, but the $5 price may not apply after swaps.
- Do all locations carry the deal? No, availability depends on franchise choices.
- Is delivery priced the same? No, delivery fees and platform markups vary.
- What item sells out first? Popular sandwiches and nuggets move fastest at peak times.
- Can you request fresh fries? Yes, asking for freshly made fries often helps.
- How much savings do customers report? Many perceive about a 45% saving versus separate purchases.
- Will the deal return after it ends? Limited-time offers may rotate back in future promotions.
Practical considerations and FAQs to address in the article
The $5 menu is simple but raises questions. What can you change? When can you order? And how much will it cost? Here are answers to common questions to help you know what to expect before ordering.
Customizations, upsizes, and substitutions
Minor changes like holding pickles or adding extra sauce are free. But, big changes or adding premium toppings might cost extra. You can also upsize fries or drinks for a small fee. The McDonald’s app and kiosks will show the exact cost of upgrades before checkout.
Hours of availability and participating locations
The $5 meal deal is usually available during lunch and dinner. But, not all stores offer it, and hours can change. Check your local McDonald’s or use the McDonald’s app for the latest info on where and when.
Delivery pricing differences
Delivery services add extra fees, making the total cost more than $5. Compare pickup and delivery prices in the app to save money. Look out for app deals and coupons to lower the cost.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDouble | Two beef patties, cheese, pickles, onions, and ketchup | 400 | $1.79–$2.19 |
| McChicken | Crispy chicken patty with lettuce and mayo on a toasted bun | 400 | $1.29–$1.79 |
| Spicy McChicken | Spiced crispy patty, lettuce, and mayo | 430 | $1.49–$1.99 |
| 4pc McNuggets | Classic chicken bites with choice of sauce | 170 | $1.99–$2.49 |
| Small Fries | Golden, salted fries | 230 | $1.29–$1.79 |
| Medium Fries (upsize) | Larger portion for a small extra cost | 340 | $1.79–$2.29 |
| Small Drink | Fountain beverage or iced tea | 0–200 | $1.00–$1.79 |
| Medium Drink (upsize) | Bigger cup for a modest upcharge | 0–300 | $1.49–$2.29 |
| Apple Slices | Fresh fruit snack | 15 | $0.99–$1.29 |
| Side Salad | Mixed greens with choice of dressing | 20–120 | $1.49–$2.49 |
| Hash Browns | Crispy shredded potato patty | 140 | $1.19–$1.59 |
| Small Sundae | Soft-serve with hot fudge or caramel | 200 | $1.29–$1.79 |
| Fruit & Maple Oatmeal | Oats with diced apples and cranberries | 290 | $2.19–$2.79 |
| Chicken Snack Wrap | Grilled or crispy chicken in a soft tortilla | 250–350 | $1.99–$2.59 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Classic baked cookie | 170 | $0.79–$1.29 |
| McFlurry (small) | Soft-serve mixed with candy or cookie pieces | 300–380 | $1.99–$2.79 |
| Premium Roast Coffee | Hot brewed coffee | 0–10 | $1.00–$1.79 |
| Side of BBQ Sauce | Classic dipping sauce | 45 | $0.00–$0.49 |
FAQs
- Is the $5 meal customizable? Yes. Small changes like extra sauce are free; large substitutions may cost more.
- Can I upsize the drink or fries? Yes. Upsizes show an extra charge in the app or at the kiosk.
- Are all stores participating? No. Check local listings in the app for participating locations.
- Will delivery cost more? Yes. Delivery services add fees, making the total cost more than $5.
- Do rewards apply? MyMcDonald’s Rewards earn points on $5 purchases when eligible.
- Where can I see allergen info? McDonald’s official nutrition and allergen guides list ingredients and warnings.
- Can coupons stack with the deal? App-exclusive coupons may stack if allowed by the promotion rules.
- When is the $5 deal sold? Most often during lunch and dinner; exact hours differ by location.
- Who sets the final price? Franchise owners and delivery partners set local pricing and fees that affect the final total.
If you need more specific answers for your local store, use the McDonald’s app. It will confirm participating locations, hours, and the exact cost after any upsizes or delivery fees.
Conclusion
The McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal is a great value. It includes a meal like the McDouble or McChicken, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small drink for about $5. This deal saves you more than 45% compared to buying each item separately.
For those watching their budget, this deal is a smart choice. You can order it in-store, via drive-thru, or through the McDonald’s app. This way, you might get extra perks like Free Fries Friday.
Delivery is also an option, but be aware it might add fees. Always check the total before you order. You can also save more by buying two deals or joining the McDonald’s Rewards program.
Availability of the deal can vary by location. It has inspired competitors and is set to continue into 2025. To make the most of it, check if your local restaurant offers it and their hours before you go.
