When traveling abroad, many people enjoy visiting McDonald’s to see how the chain adapts to local cultures. Globetrotters have marveled at the diverse menu offerings available in different countries, such as poutine in Canada, jamón Ibérico sandwiches in Spain, and McSpaghetti in the Philippines. These unique experiences have become an entry point into unfamiliar cuisines for some travelers, mixing the comforts of home with something new.
Photographer Gary He recently released a book titled “McAtlas: A Global Guide to the Golden Arches,” showcasing McDonald’s locations in 50 countries. The book highlights the differences between McDonald’s in the United States and those overseas, revealing the chain’s adaptability to local customs and flavors. McDonald’s has approximately 42,000 restaurants in nearly 100 countries, with roughly a third of the menu items customized to incorporate local ingredients and dishes.
For McDonald’s fans like Jaya Saxena and Drew Binsky, dining at international locations like the McDonald’s below Saxena’s apartment in Rome or in over 80 countries has become a unique and exciting culinary experience. Even celebrated chefs like Johnny Spero have been intrigued by the diversity of McDonald’s offerings while traveling abroad, showcasing an interest in exploring cultural adaptations through food.
Through photographs of McDonald’s locations in unique settings and with diverse menu offerings, individuals like Gary He hope to show that the chain is not merely a symbol of globalization but also a platform for localization and cultural integration. As travelers increasingly seek authentic and immersive experiences, visiting McDonald’s abroad has become a way to explore and appreciate the rich diversity of cuisines worldwide.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
