When McDonald’s first opened its doors, the fast-food landscape was remarkably different from what we know today. The brand, now a global giant with a menu that spans a variety of items, started with a simple yet appealing selection of offerings.
This historic menu, a snapshot of a bygone era, reveals the humble beginnings of the chain that would go on to serve billions.
The drive-in with the iconic arches had a menu that was as straightforward as it was affordable. For a mere 15 cents, you could enjoy a pure beef hamburger, fresh off the grill and likely much smaller than the patties we are accustomed to today.
If your taste buds craved a bit more indulgence, for 4 cents more, at 19 cents, you could upgrade to a tempting cheeseburger.
Accompanying the burgers were sides and drinks that have become staples in the fast-food industry. A triple-thick shake, rich and likely hand-scooped, would set you back only 20 cents—a bargain by any standard.
For those preferring something to crunch on, golden French fries were available at 10 cents, likely served in a modest portion size compared to today’s super-sized standards.
The beverage selection was equally economical. A thirst-quenching Coke, presumably in a size much smaller than even the ‘small’ of the modern era, cost just 10 cents.
For the same price, one could opt for a delightful root beer, a steaming hot coffee, or a full-flavor orange drink. And for a refreshing finish, cold milk was available for 12 cents.
This menu is not just a list of items and prices; it’s a window into the food culture of the time. It reflects a period when dining out was a simpler affair, portions were smaller, and prices were dramatically lower than what we would find today. The value of money has changed significantly since then, as has the cost of ingredients and labor.
Today, inflation and the evolution of the food industry have dramatically altered what we pay for a meal at McDonald’s. However, the essence of what made McDonald’s a popular choice remains: quick service, tasty food, and an experience that has been consistently familiar for decades.
As we look back on this historic menu, it’s a reminder of how far McDonald’s has come—from a single drive-in with the arches to an international corporation with a diverse menu tailored to the tastes of customers around the world. While prices and options have changed, the core offering of convenience and taste has stood the test of time.
The first McDonald brothers drive in purchased by ray krock was in San Bernardino California where the museum is today .