For many people, McDonald’s is a go-to spot for a quick meal, with its familiar menu items that have become staples of fast food culture. However, there’s an entirely different side to the experience that customers often don’t see—the inside scoop on what goes on behind the counter. Former McDonald’s staff have shared some of the most dreaded orders they’d rather not handle, shedding light on how some choices can complicate the kitchen’s workflow and the overall dining experience.
One of the most frequently cited orders staff dread is the “special requests” order. While customization is a key part of fast food, certain alterations can slow down the entire process. Whether it’s modifying a burger to have no pickles, adding extra cheese, or requesting a specific sauce, these types of modifications tend to complicate what should be a streamlined process. Most kitchens are set up for speed, so adding layers of customization can cause delays. Employees have noted that it’s not that they don’t want to fulfill a customer’s request, but rather that certain changes can lead to confusion and mistakes, especially during rush hours.
Another type of order that often gets groans from staff is the “breakfast after hours” request. McDonald’s breakfast menu is served during a specific window of time, and once it’s over, the kitchen transitions to the lunch and dinner menu. Some customers, however, insist on ordering breakfast items even after the cutoff, pushing staff to make exceptions. Not only does this require additional work—sometimes even pulling ingredients from different stations—but it can also throw off the entire rhythm of the kitchen. For staff, it’s a frustrating inconvenience that takes time away from preparing the usual orders.
“Chicken nuggets with different sauces” is another order that McDonald’s workers often dread. While nuggets themselves aren’t difficult to prepare, when customers ask for a wide variety of dipping sauces, it can become a logistical nightmare. Different sauces have to be carefully portioned, and they may not always be in easy-to-dispense containers, causing delays and potential messes. Employees have shared that when customers order several sauces for just a few nuggets, it feels like an unnecessary challenge that could have been avoided with simpler choices.
Similarly, some staff members note that “customized salads” can be frustrating to make. Though salads may seem like a healthy alternative to a burger, assembling them can be a surprisingly complex task. Staff may need to ensure the right ingredients are included, portioned, and dressed, which can cause delays, especially if it’s busy. Add in a request for a specific dressing or the removal of ingredients, and it can become a delicate balancing act of precision and speed.
Lastly, “overloaded beverages”—such as iced coffees or milkshakes with an excessive number of toppings or customizations—can be difficult for workers to prepare quickly. These drinks often require multiple steps, including blending, adding toppings, and checking the consistency, all of which can add time to an order. When customers want intricate drinks, it can feel like an overwhelming task that slows down the whole line.
Ultimately, the staff at McDonald’s and other fast food chains work under immense pressure to deliver hot, fresh meals quickly. While most employees are happy to serve customers and fulfill their orders, certain requests can make the process more difficult. A little patience and understanding can go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience for both the customer and the staff.
