Craving a McRib? Here’s Why You Might Need a Passport First

Fans of the McRib can rejoice! After nearly a decade, McDonald’s is bringing back the iconic sandwich, but only for a limited time. This beloved menu item, first introduced in the early 1980s, has become more than just a sandwich—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Following countless petitions, social media campaigns, and fan requests, McDonald’s U.K. is reintroducing the McRib in select locations, marking its long-awaited return to British menus.

“It is more than just a sandwich; it’s a phenomenon. We have heard our fans loud and clear,” said Thomas O’Neill, the head of menu at McDonald’s U.K., in a statement to The Independent. “After almost a decade of anticipation, we are thrilled to bring back this iconic menu item. Knowing how well-loved the McRib is, we had very little choice — we had to make it happen.”

What Makes the McRib So Special?

For the uninitiated, the McRib is a boneless pork patty shaped to resemble ribs, slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, topped with onions and pickles, all served on a homestyle bun. Its distinctive shape, saucy flavor, and limited availability contribute to its cult-like following.

The McRib’s global fan base has kept it alive despite its absence from many markets. For instance, McDonald’s locations in Germany have never removed the McRib from their menus due to its immense popularity there. Similarly, Canada and Guatemala are among the few countries where McRib sightings have become routine.

U.S. McRib Return Still Uncertain

While fans in the U.K. are already enjoying the McRib, U.S. devotees are still left wondering when the sandwich will make its stateside return. Though McDonald’s has remained tight-lipped, there have been hints. Back in June, Joe Erlinger, the president of McDonald’s U.S., teased a McRib comeback, saying it would return “later this year.”

Recently, regional reports from Missouri and Kansas suggest that the McRib will be available in select locations by late November. A spokesperson told the Springfield News-Leader that the McRib is expected to appear in the Greater Ozarks area by November 27. Similarly, The Topeka Capital-Journal confirmed that Topeka locations anticipate launching the McRib the week of November 25.

Although McDonald’s corporate has not confirmed these reports, past releases indicate that limited-time regional rollouts are common for the McRib before a wider release. And for fans determined to find one, the McRib Locator, an online tool created by dedicated fans, tracks sightings worldwide.

Global McRib Love

McDonald’s decision to reintroduce the McRib in the U.K. aligns with the international love for the sandwich. Despite its American origins, Friends of the McRib can find it more frequently abroad. Germany, in particular, has embraced the McRib permanently, reflecting the sandwich’s global appeal.

While Americans eagerly await its return, McDonald’s often experiments with regional menus before bringing items back to their homeland. In recent years, we’ve seen international favorites like the Chicken Big Mac and Crocs Happy Meal make their way to the U.S. after a successful overseas debut, giving hope that the McRib will soon follow.

For now, McRib lovers will need to keep their fingers crossed, monitor regional availability, and maybe even plan a trip across the pond. One thing is certain: the McRib isn’t going down without a fight. Fans have made sure of that.