Woolwich might not be the first place you’d think of for a global gastronomic launch. It wasn't Mayfair or Piccadilly Circus. It was a practical, working-class neighbourhood, which is probably why it made perfect sense.
Imagine the scene: a queue of confused but hopeful Brits, clutching their 36p for a Quarter Pounder. Back then, that was the price of a proper sit-down lunch, but here you got it wrapped in paper and eaten with your fingers.
My dad remembers his first time. He says he stared at the tray, wondering where the knife and fork were. He felt rebellious, like a teenager skipping school, just eating a burger with his bare hands in public.
The Local Rivals vs. The American Giant
Before the Arches, British fast food meant the Wimpy Bar. You know the one: it had a proper plate, a knife and fork, and waitress service. It was civilised, like a pub without the beer.
Then McDonald’s showed up and said, “Forget the plate. Just throw it in a bag.” It was the equivalent of turning a formal dinner party into a backyard barbecue. And everyone secretly preferred the barbecue.
Wimpy fought back, but the damage was done. People were smashing their patties with a free plastic toy and loving the chaos. The Union Jack had a new, slightly greasy, neighbour.
10 McDonald's features from the 1980s and 90s that you no longer see
