McDonald’s came into existence on May 15, 1940, by Maurice McDonald’s and Richard McDonald’s opened their first fast food restaurant chain in San Bernardino, California. At that time, McDonald’s had a very basic menu of nine items including Hamburgers, Milkshakes, Fries, and Cheeseburgers.
- 1940: McDonald’s first restaurant opened by Dick and Mac McDonald in San Bernardino, California, offering a barbecue-style menu.
- 1948: They revamped the restaurant to a hamburger stand with a simplified menu, introducing the Speedee Service System.
- 1949: Added fries and Triple Thick Milkshakes.
- 1955: Ray Kroc became franchising partner and expanded McDonald’s nationally.
- 1965: Filet-O-Fish introduced.
- 1968: Big Mac and Hot Apple Pie added to the menu.
- 1970s: Shamrock Shake and Quarter Pounder launched.
- 1975: Egg McMuffin introduced, followed by the Happy Meal in 1979.
- 1982: McRib sandwich released.
- 1983: Chicken McNuggets introduced.
From its early days to now it continued to expand its fast food chain and its menu globally by introducing healthy menu options like salads, and fruits.