McDonald's

I find it incredible how popular fast food is in China. Especially since the price is equivalent to prices in America, I just do not see why someone would get fast food over traditional Chinese food. Not only is it about four times as expensive, it’s just not as good. This is probably because I've never really been a fan of fast food though.

            Anyway, the two major players here are McDonald's and KFC. Although they’re technically not even selling similar foods, they are each other’s main competition. The amount of these restaurants that you’ll find in a public area is outstanding. There is a mall area here where you will find five McDonald's in a one-mile radius. 

            Today I will be focusing on McDonald’s. The people behind this corporation are very smart when it comes to expanding. Not only do they sell the things that you can find in American restaurants, but they also have items that cater to the Chinese population. For example, one of the specialty drinks that they sell is a sort of bubble tea, which many Asians love. Other examples of Chinese items are these ying and yang burgers that are literally made on white or black sesame buns. They have contrasting flavors as well as contrasting meats, so it’s an interesting concept.

Another thing that McDonald’s has done to appeal to the Chinese market is add a take out window for every store, but the items you can get here are limited to only drinks and ice creams. At first I thought that this wasn’t a very good idea, but walking by a McDonald’s you will see dozens of people waiting in line. Who would have thought that the Chinese liked iced cream this much?

On to the food. It tastes exactly like it would in America, except that it is prepared with more care. In this aspect, it leads to a better product. You can tell that the employees here are actually proud to be working at these restaurants, and it shines through in the food. American McDonald’s can learn a thing or two. Anyway, it was a cool experience to see and taste how different companies cater to different cultures. It makes you realize how even if we like eating the same things, cuisines from different cultures can be completely different, even at a fast food place. Sorry I couldn't get more photographs. I wasn't allowed to take them inside for some reason.