McDonald’s

restaurant chain | part of encyclopedia/cuisine
Pronounced: \mehk-don-lds\ | IPA: /məkˈdɒn lds/

Definition of McDonald’s

An iconic international American cuisine fast food restaurant chain from San Bernardino, California, and currently headquartered in Des Plaines, Illinois. The restaurant was established in 1940 by Richard James “Dick” McDonald & Maurice James “Mac” McDonald, the McDonald’s Corporation was formed by Ray Croc in 1955. McDonald’s emphasizes Americana themes, and foods such as burgers like the Big Mac, milkshakes, Chicken McNuggets, etc.

Examples of McDonald’s in New Mexico

In New Mexico, McDonald’s has made some minor New Mexican cuisine modifications to their menu, mostly centering around the inclusion of New Mexico green chile. Their green chile supplier is Bueno Foods in Albuquerque.

A promotional image of the Green Chile Double Cheeseburger, a green chile burger. (image source)

Promotional image for the Green Chile Sunrise Burrito, a breakfast burrito. (image source)

The Green Chile Double Cheeseburger remains a popular regional item on New Mexico menus. However, after menu reductions following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Green Chile Sunrise Burrito was removed and has not returned. Only the Green Chile Double Cheeseburger persists as the main green chile-focused staple. This is somewhat odd, especially considering McDonald’s brought back the Snack Wrap nationally (using tortillas), meaning they have the capability to wrap hashbrowns, eggs, green chile, etc., yet the Green Chile Sunrise Burrito hasn’t been revived.

Origin of McDonald’s in New Mexico

In 1959, the first McDonald’s in New Mexico was opened in Albuquerque at 5900 Menaul Blvd. NE. The chain currently has approximately 90 locally owned restaurants in New Mexico (with potential for slight variations based on recent openings/closures). The original location underwent a major remodel and rebuild in recent years, with demolition starting in late 2023 and a modernized version reopening in 2024 to update design and efficiency while touting its historic significance as the state’s first. The various expansions of McDonald’s has made its logo, the gold arches, and their mascot Ronald McDonald, a symbol of American fast food.

Alternate names: Mickey D’s, Maccas, MacDonald’s.

First Known Use: 20th century

This journalistic and educational article about McDonald’s is not endorsed by McDonald’s Corporation, all images and trademarks are owned by their respective owners. Top image adding the Flag of New Mexico to the McDonald’s logo was created for the purpose of this article.