McDonald’s is heading back to the ’90s
The fast-food giant is bringing out a sense of nostalgia to lure cost-conscious diners.
On Tuesday (Sept. 2), the Golden Arches announced it is bringing back Extra Value Meals, the classic bundle first introduced in 1991 that offered savings on an entrée, side, and drink.
The deal was discontinued in 2019 — but starting Monday, Sept. 8, it returns.
“We are laser-focused on delivering value and affordability to our customers,” commented Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, per CNBC.
He continued, “I’m incredibly proud of how our franchisees and teams continue to step up to make it a reality.”
Why Now?
McDonald’s has been working hard over the last year to win back diners feeling the sting of rising costs.
In 2024, the chain introduced its $5 Meal Deal, sparking a value-menu war across fast food.
Then, in early 2025, it rolled out the McValue menu with a buy-one, add-one-for-$1 option.
More recently, The Wall Street Journal reported that McDonald’s executives convinced franchisees to lower prices — promising the company would help cover the loss.
$5, $8 + Other Special Value Offers
To kick things off, McDonald’s will roll out seasonal rotating Extra Value Meals this fall:
- September: $5 Sausage Egg McMuffin meal and $8 Big Mac meal.
- November: $5 Sausage, Egg and Cheese McGriddle meal and $8 10-piece Chicken McNuggets meal.
- All of 2025: $2.99 Snack Wraps, available all year.
Extra Value, Extra Nostalgia
For longtime fans, the return of Extra Value Meals is about more than saving money — it’s also a throwback to the original deals that first hit menus in 1991.
Read More: McDonald’s Turns Up the Heat With Spicy Breakfast Debut (+ a Burger Bonus)
Now, McDonald’s is banking on nostalgia paired with affordability to bring customers back through the door.
25 Country Stars With Their Own Bars + Restaurants
Of all of the side hustles country artists could partake in, opening a bar or restaurant is the most fitting — and very common. After all, many of these stars got their start on a barstool, tip jar nearby, playing their music for anyone who would listen.
These places feel like home for many of these singers. Over the years, several artists have gotten into the bar or restaurant game, and for a select few, brands have turned into franchises with several locations and/or concepts — we’re looking at you, Jimmy Buffett!
Let’s take a look at the country star food and entertainment venues that have opened over the years.
Gallery Credit: Jess
