McDonald’s may be gearing up for a major menu shake-up, with reports hinting at bold new additions and the long-awaited return of fan favorites in the coming year. A recent leak has sparked excitement among customers eager to see what’s next, suggesting that both adventurous eaters and nostalgic fans could have plenty to look forward to.
Leaked details suggest McDonald’s U.K. is preparing a headline-grabbing menu refresh in 2026, combining inventive new launches with the return of crowd-pleasing classics. Leading the rumored additions is the Surf N Turf burger, a bold sandwich that stacks beef patties with a crispy Filet-O-Fish for a rich land-and-sea combination rarely seen on the chain’s menu. Also reportedly on the way is the new Espresso Shake, offering a caffeinated twist on the chain’s frozen treats.
Aside from bold new items, the 2026 menu refresh is also bringing back a host of fan-favorite McDonald’s U.K. treats, giving customers a mix of nostalgia and indulgence. The Chicken Cheeseburger leads the pack of returnees, swapping classic beef patties for crispy chicken fillets, reviving a concept first introduced in select markets years ago and last seen in limited runs around 2022.
Sweet-tooth fans can look forward to the Apple Pie McFlurry, a delightful combination of creamy vanilla soft-serve and warm apple pie pieces, inspired by McDonald’s iconic apple pie first launched in the late 1960s. For dipping enthusiasts, the legendary Big Mac Sauce dip returns, letting fans enjoy the famous tangy sauce alongside fries, nuggets, or other menu items, following its initial limited release in 2020.
Other beloved treats expected back include the Galaxy Caramel McFlurry, a rich dessert with swirls of chocolate and caramel, last available in 2023, and the Strawberry Lemonade, a refreshing, fruity drink that has periodically cycled on and off U.K. menus over the years. Cheesy Garlic Bites, a savory snack first introduced in the early 2000s, are also rumored to return for a limited run, bringing back their cheesy, garlicky goodness.
Rounding out the lineup is the Big Arch burger, a towering beef sandwich that first appeared in select U.K. markets in 2024 and is poised for a permanent comeback. Lastly, the Chicken Big Mac, a crispy chicken twist on the classic Big Mac, is also expected to return.
As part of its 2026 menu refresh, McDonald’s U.K. is making room for bold new launches and returning fan favorites by saying goodbye to several menu items. Among those being discontinued are the Big Tasty, a hearty burger with a juicy beef patty, Emmental cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and smoky sauce; the Cheesy Chicken Stack, featuring crispy chicken fillets layered with melted cheese and creamy sauce; and seasonal favorites like the Grinch Meal, Grinch Shaker Fries, and Grinch McFlurry, which delighted fans with festive flavors and whimsical green-themed treats.
Other items being axed include the Grumble Pie, a sweet pastry dessert, and Cheese Melt Dippers, bite-sized cheesy snacks perfect for dipping.
Source: The Sun U.K.