If you think of one name that’s synonymous with “fast-food,” it’s McDonald’s. The Golden Arches have been welcoming hungry guests looking for great burgers, fries, shakes and more for over 60 years. With over 38,000 locations around the world, you’re never far from a hearty breakfast, a satisfying Big Mac or even some unique items on the McDonald’s secret menu.

The McDonald’s menu is full of variety no matter when you’re stopping by. There’s a full breakfast selection as well as sandwiches and salads for lunch or dinner. While there’s plenty to choose from on the regular menu, give the McDonald’s secret menu items a try the next time you stop by. Also consider customizing some classic favorites like the McChicken or McDouble – switching up sauces and making additions gives you some entirely-new flavors.

Official secret menu vs. customer creations?

The regular menu at McDonald’s is full of classic favorites and rotating specials, but that hasn’t stopped clever customers from getting innovative. Whether you’re craving a McChicken with a spicy kick or you want to add even more flavor to the classic McDouble, McDonald’s makes it easy for guests to get creative with their orders. Try these customer takes on some of the standard items on the menu:

• Feeling like your McChicken could use a little heat? Order some buffalo sauce on the side, dip your McChicken and enjoy!
• For an interesting twist on the Big Mac, substitute tartar sauce for the Mac sauce.
• While the McDouble is great as-is, you can enhance the flavor with a few key additions. Ask the cooks to spread Big Mac sauce on the sandwich, and add a few strips of bacon, too. Your tastebuds will thank you!

The most popular McDonald’s secret menu items

The McDonald’s secret menu is actually not-so-secret. That’s great news if you’re a big fan of the golden arches, since you likely won’t be met with puzzled looks when you ask about off-menu creations. While the regular menu has plenty of options, and is always changing, there are still some great off-menu items that are worth a try:

• The Apple Pie McFlurry is a legendary dessert that can be made at almost any McDonald’s location. Just order an apple pie and the McFlurry flavor of your choice and the staff will blend the two together for a truly decadent treat.
• If you haven’t heard of the McCrepe, you really don’t know what you’re missing! This off-menu specialty is great if you love dessert for breakfast. It combines the classic hotcakes with a yogurt parfait – it’s a sweet way to start the day!
• Love all the flavors of the classic McDonald’s shakes? Why get one, when you can get them all! Just order the Neapolitan Shake, a blend of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry shakes – it’s a delicious combination that you won’t be able to resist.
• Not in the mood for a burger? Give the Grilled Cheese a try. The grill masters will brown the insides of a burger bun and place American cheese inside to melt. Whenever you’re craving something simple but tasty, this is your go-to order.

How to order from the hidden menu

If you order any of the items on the McDonald’s secret menu, there should be a friendly staff member on hand who knows how to make whatever you’re after. Feeling like you want to make an entirely new creation of your own? They’re used to customers modifying standard menu items and turning them into something amazing. Each time you see the Golden Arches, get creative, play with flavors and craft a meal that’s all your own!