Why Is Everyone Talking About the New Big Arch Burger at McDonald’s?

The fast-food chain is bringing its biggest burger yet to the States.

March 02, 2026

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Photo by: M. Suhail/Getty

M. Suhail/Getty

Even after 85 years in business, McDonald’s is still making headlines for its famous burgers — and the new Big Arch Burger is no exception. Already available in other countries, the burger is coming to the United States for a limited time.

What is McDonald’s new Big Arch Burger?

The brand is touting its new limited-time item as the “most McDonald’s, McDonald’s burger” yet, with big flavor and a big size. The burger includes two beef patties, three slices of white cheddar cheese, crispy slivered onions, lettuce, pickles and a toasted bun with sesame and poppy seeds on top. And don’t forget the “game-changing” Big Arch Sauce, described as a tangy, creamy condiment with mustard, pickle and sweet tomato notes.

The burger is now a permanent menu fixture overseas in the United Kingdom and Ireland, after making a return in January. Customers in the United States can now try the item too — but only for a limited time.

The Big Arch is most comparable to the famous Big Mac in terms of the ingredient list: two patties, similar fixings and a special sauce. But the Big Arch’s quarter-pound patties give a new name to what makes a big fast-food burger. (Have we mentioned this burger is big yet?)

Why is the Big Arch Burger going viral?

Ahead of its release, the Big Arch already has commenters conflicted on social media. On a recent Instagram post of the new item, one commenter wrote, “This burger is a home run,” and another said, “I am waiting patiently.”

However, one of the top comments on the post is, “I watched the CEO eat…well…take the slightest nibble of “the product”. It did not instill confidence.”

They’re referring to a video McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski posted on his personal Instagram page. Kempczinski tastes the new burger while expressing his enthusiasm for the flavor and says, “That’s a big bite for a Big Arch!” The bite, however, is not exactly big.

When will the Big Arch Burger be available?

If you want to see for yourself what all the fuss is about, the Big Arch will be available starting tomorrow, March 3, 2026, in participating locations nationwide for a limited time.

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