Hungry for something to fill the empty void that an upcoming test has created? How do students decide which fast food joint is right for them? Nobody can say they are a college student if they haven't once in their college career's went through the fast food drive-thru late at night.
With Burger King opening in December of 1954, and McDonald's just four months later, these fast food chains have been a staple in American culture, but who is better? Asking that very question myself, I taste tested five similar menu items at both restaurants, and my verdict may surprise you.
1. Chicken Nuggets
Who doesn't love a classic crispy chicken nugget? Sorry vegetarians, this one is not for you. I won't deny it, I thought my bias towards McDonald's would affect my judgment, but for the value and taste that Burger King provides, I was pretty impressed.
Coming in at $1.49 for 10 nuggets, Burger Kind blew me away compared to McDonad's $1.39 for only 4. With more flavor and crisp, Burger King came out on top.
Winner: Burger King
#SpoonTip: While Burger King's chicken nuggets impressed me, their sauces, more specifically their ranch, was anything but impressive. Bland and somehow sour, Burger King failed to complement their tasty nuggets with this "weak sauce." McDonald's definitely takes the win when it comes to their ranch, which is both classic and flavorful.
2. French Fries
Salty and savory, you can't go wrong with the classic French Fry. If you're looking for a thick cut, more potato-like fry, then Burger King may be the one for you. Hefty, with a strong potato taste, Burger King's fries go for around $1.39 if you get the value meal size.
While Burger King does have some tasty fries, I can't help but love McDonald's classic side. With just the perfect ratio of salt and oil, McDonald's delivers on the flavor. Thinly cut with just the right amount of crisp, these fries go for the same price as Burger King's.
Winner: McDonald's
#SpoonTip: Ever order too may fries and just can't finish the rest? Don't throw them away! There are many ways to re-purpose old french fries. You can pop them in the oven and give them a nice broil, or even turn them into hash browns for breakfast.
3. Crispy Chicken Sandwiches
I love chicken sandwiches, and when I'm not in the mood for beef, you can't go wrong with poultry. While McDonald's McChicken sandwich is popular among customers, its flat greasy bun, lack of crispiness, and bland flavor disappointed me. Even with extra toppings like mayonnaise, this chicken sandwich let me down big time.
It seems that Burger King is dominating the chicken portion of this taste test. Their chicken sandwich came with a puffy sesame seed bun and an even distribution of mayonnaise on both sides of the patty. Light, flavorful, and crisp, this crispy chicken junior is priced at just $1.00 (on the value menu) compared to McDonald's McChicken for $1.29.
Winner: Burger King
#SpoonTip: If you want to save on some fat or calories, both of these crispy chicken sandwiches come in a grilled version as well.
4. Apple Pie
Who doesn't like dessert with their burgers? I remember when I was young, I would beg my mom to buy me an apple pie from McDonald's. It was all I would ever eat! Getting the chance to try the delicious pie once again, I was pretty excited.
After opening the cute cardboard box, the initial smell made my mouth water. The apples were indeed delicious, but I couldn't help but notice the overwhelming taste of cinnamon contained within. McDonald's apple pie definitely packs a punch.
On the other hand, Burger King offers a more traditional form of the classic dessert. Shaped like a slice of pie with crumbles on top, Burger King's apple pie was tasty, but not mind-blowing. Its mushy consistency and not-so-mobile-friendly packaging was a disappointment. Burger King's pie goes for $1.49, while McDonald's apple pie costs just under $1.00.
Winner: McDonald's
#SpoonTip: This may come as a surprise to everybody, but Burger King's apple pie is actually vegan!
5. Cheeseburgers
Finally, this is what we have all been waiting for; the battle of the burgers. With a name like Burger King, you'd hope that they can provide some beautiful burgers. In order to even the playing field, I ordered both of my burgers plain, and I was pleasantly surprised.
Starting off with Burger King, I immediately tasted the flame-broiled flavor that their restaurant is known for. The cheese, perfectly melted, further complemented the tasty burger, and I eagerly scarfed down the rest of my meal in seconds.
McDonald's on the other hand, also serves up a pretty delicious burger. I don't know what it is, but whenever I bite down into a McDonald's cheeseburger, the memories of my childhood come flooding back. The taste of that perfectly seasoned patty has remained the same for over 60 years!
Enjoying both the flavor appearance of these two burgers, I simply couldn't pick a winner. Both contain unique seasonings and flavors that I just can't get enough of.
Winner: Tie
McDonald's and Burger King are two fast food restaurants that have helped shape the culture of America. Just like a person, each restaurant has its own unique set of qualities. After taste-testing items from both value menus, I've ultimately determined a tie.
Over the years, these fast food chains may have faced some heavy critics in regards to their food quality, but these million dollar companies show no signs of slowing down.