The 13 Most Beautiful McDonald’s in the World
From a salmon pink store in Lisbon to a flying saucer–shaped location in New Mexico, these are the most stunning—and unique—McDonald’s around the world
“This is a beautiful McDonald’s” is not a line one is used to hearing upon seeing the telltale golden arches. When you visit the popular chain, you’re probably stopping by for a burger and fries, not stunning architecture. However, at some locations around the world, you can get both. As one of the largest fast food chains in the world, the popular eatery has a surprisingly expansive collection of restaurants in interesting, unique, and downright extraordinary buildings. Some get their beauty from ornate architectural details, other from their expressive adaptions that honor a local environment or culture—either way, the results are remarkable. From a modernist outpost in Georgia to a palatial offering in Budapest, below AD surveys the 13 most beautiful McDonald’s in the world.
Porto, Portugal
Often described as the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world, this location is housed in the old Cafe Imperial building, a famous coffee house. Inside, the burger joint shows off stunning stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers, and an incredible arched entryway.
Budapest, Hungary
Located in a railway station in Budapest, this McDonald’s is a gorgeous stop both for hamburgers and an opulent dining experience. The arched ceiling and intricate molding provide particular aesthetic interest.
Batumi, Georgia
For the modernist architecture fan, this glass-domed McDonald’s in Georgia is a must-visit. The structure was designed by Giorgi Khmaladze in 2013.
Lisbon, Portugal
With a charming pink façade and wrought-iron terraces, McDonald’s has successfully turned a simple franchise location into a tourist destination in its own right. The locale has such an allure that it’s even inspired artwork.
Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Unlike the showing in Batumi, this Rotterdam McDonald’s—designed by Mei Architects—explores the transparent aspect of glass. Providing nearly unrestricted views both into and out of the restaurant, the location may also claim the title for most beautiful staircase in a McDonald’s.
Debrecen, Hungary
Located in Debrecen, Hungary, this McDonald’s location adds a historic touch to the brand’s iconic gold arches.
Downey, California, US
A trip to Downey, California, will bring you to the oldest McDonald’s in the world. It was the second restaurant to be franchised by Richard and Maurice McDonald and still features the brand’s original golden arches. Besides its undeniably novelty within the chain, it’s also a prime example of Googie architecture in California.
Roswell, New Mexico, US
Roswell is usually heralded as “The Alien Capital of the World,” so the burger chain certainly leaned into the theme with this restaurant. Complete with holographic lighting, it’s unsurprisingly the only location shaped like a flying saucer.
New Hyde Park, New York, US
When McDonald’s first acquired this property in 1985, the plan was to tear it down and build a standard Mickey D’s building. Instead, preservationists pushed back noting the building’s historic value as the previous farmhouse of a descendent of reverend Richard Denton, a founder of the town. Instead of demolishing the building, McDonald’s agreed to build the store within the home, resulting in a true McMansion.
Melbourne, Australia
Housed in the former United Kingdom Hotel in Victoria, this Australian McDonald’s might be one of the franchise’s only Art Deco location. The building was designed in the late 1930s by James Hastie Wardrop.
Sedona, Arizona, US
With an undeniable southwest flair, this Arizona store is the only McDonald’s with a turquoise logo. The city council reportedly told the company that the standard golden arches would clash with the red rocks of the surrounding town, prompting the unusual addition.
Freeport, Maine, US
You’d be forgiven if you mistook this McDonald’s in Maine for someone’s house. Built within a Colonial-style home, this is currently the only McDonald’s location in the city.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, US
Another example of the hamburger restaurant leaning into local culture is this log cabin McDonald’s in Wisconsin. Inside, the location includes unique decor, such as a wood-carved bear and mounted moose head.
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