14 Countries Where You Can Sip a Cold One with Your Meal

McDonald’s has long been synonymous with fast food staples like fries, Big Macs, and Chicken McNuggets, but did you know that in some European locations, you can also pair your meal with an ice-cold beer? That’s right—beer is on the menu in McDonald’s restaurants across 14 countries. While some might find it odd, others think it’s the perfect way to enhance their dining experience, particularly for those hitting McDonald’s after a night out. Although McDonald’s in the United Kingdom has opted not to serve alcohol, citing family focus and a lack of demand, several other countries have embraced the concept. Let’s take a look at where McDonald’s is serving up this frothy beverage.

Sweden

In Sweden, McDonald’s takes a local approach by offering Pripps Bl Lättöl, a low-alcohol beer that’s a national favorite. Some outlets even serve stronger varieties like Norrlands Guld Ljus. Pair your drink with a McFalafel or a Veggie McSpice for a unique Swedish twist.

Netherlands

If you’re in the Netherlands, you’re in for a treat. McDonald’s here serves Heineken alongside regional specialties like the McKroket, a croquette burger stuffed with ragout and Dutch cheese. Whether you’re craving a Big Mac or something more local, you can wash it all down with a cold beer.

Switzerland

Swiss McDonald’s offers beer in select locations, and customers can sip their favorite brew while enjoying seasonal items like quinoa curry burgers or plum tarts. Not all McDonald’s in Switzerland offer alcohol, so check ahead if you’re hoping for a McBeer.

Australia

Down under, McDonald’s serves up locally brewed beers to complement Aussie classics like the McOz burger, which features beetroot, and the McChicken Deluxe. For dessert, why not try a Tim Tam or Milo-flavored McFlurry?

France

Known locally as “McDo,” McDonald’s in France lets you sip on beer while you enjoy the Le P’tit Moutarde, a popular regional burger. The beer options vary by location, with some restaurants serving it in clear plastic cups and others offering bottled varieties.

Germany

Germany was the first country to introduce beer to McDonald’s menus back in 1971. Whether you’re craving a Mekkes (German Big Mac) or a Hamburger Royal TS, you can pair it with a frosty brew. Plus, German McDonald’s locations offer unique items like bubble tea and the McRib all year long.

Spain

In Spain, Cerveza (beer) is a popular pairing with McDonald’s Grand McExtreme Bacon Burger. You can choose from a small selection of local lagers, served in either plastic or glass cups, for a truly Spanish fast-food experience.

Belgium

Belgium’s McDonald’s menu includes the Belgo Burger, made with beef, bacon, and Maredsous cheese, along with the Croque McDo, a ham and cheese sandwich. Naturally, these go perfectly with a Belgian lager. Finish your meal with a McFlurry for a sweet ending.

South Korea

The Seongnam location near Seoul recently began serving beer, but there’s a catch—you can only order it if you’re having the Signature Burger, a premium, customizable burger. South Korea is the newest country to join the McBeer club, but the trend may grow.

Greece

In Greece, McDonald’s serves Heineken beer at every location, including airports, making it easy for weary travelers to enjoy a cold one with their meal. A Greek Burger, served on pita bread and drizzled with tzatziki sauce, is the perfect complement to a beer.

Italy

Italian McDonald’s offers a variety of beer options to pair with menu items like the Crispy McBacon and the McItaly. If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, try the Sweety—a Nutella burger that’s only available in Italy.

Czech Republic

In the Czech Republic, McDonald’s serves Pilsner Urquell, a light, crisp beer that pairs well with local specialties like the McCountry, a pork patty sandwich with raw onions, mustard, and curry sauce. Another must-try is the McSmažák, a fried cheese sandwich.

Austria

Austrian McDonald’s takes beer culture seriously, even giving away six-packs from Ottakringer Brewery during the Euro 2016 soccer tournament. At other times, you can enjoy a McBeer with a McBox Dinner Set, a family-sized meal that includes McNuggets, burgers, fries, and drinks.

Portugal

In Portugal, beer is a common menu option, often substituted for soda in combo meals. Sagres, a pale lager from a local brewery, is a popular choice. Pair your McBeer with the McBifana, a Portuguese pork sandwich served on crispy bread.

Have McBeer!

While McDonald’s remains the go-to spot for burgers and fries, these 14 countries offer a unique twist with beer on the menu. Whether you’re in Europe or as far as Australia or South Korea, you can enjoy a refreshing brew alongside your favorite fast-food items. So, next time you’re traveling, keep an eye out for a McDonald’s where you can indulge in a McBeer!