Fast food lovers may need to brace themselves as some of their favorite menu items could soon disappear. Due to changing consumer trends, supply chain issues, and corporate decisions, several well-loved fast food items are at risk in 2025. While some brands are focusing on healthier options, others are simply streamlining their menus. Many of these items have strong cult followings, making their potential removal a cause for concern. Here are 13 fast food favorites that might not be around much longer.
1. McDonald’s McRib
The McRib has been on and off the menu for years, but it may finally be gone for good. McDonald’s announced in 2022 that the McRib’s return was a “farewell tour,” suggesting it would not come back. However, limited-time releases in select locations have given fans hope. Business Insider reports that McDonald’s is focusing more on core menu items, which could mean the end of this barbecue classic.
Despite its cult following, the McRib has always been a seasonal product. Its boneless pork patty, tangy barbecue sauce, and soft bun make it a fan favorite. However, the complexity of sourcing and preparing the McRib may not align with McDonald’s long-term strategy. If it does return, it will likely remain a rare, regional promotion rather than a nationwide staple.
2. Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza
The Mexican Pizza has already faced removal once before, only to be brought back by overwhelming demand. However, it may not be safe just yet. According to USA Today, Taco Bell has struggled with supply chain issues that have impacted the availability of key ingredients. If these problems persist, the Mexican Pizza could once again disappear from the menu.
Fans of the dish love its crispy tortilla layers, seasoned beef, and rich sauce. When Taco Bell first removed it, petitions and social media campaigns pressured the company into bringing it back. But with ongoing changes in the fast food landscape, nothing is guaranteed. If demand dips or sourcing challenges grow, this beloved menu item could be in jeopardy.
3. Burger King’s Original Chicken Sandwich
Burger King has been revamping its chicken lineup, and the Original Chicken Sandwich may not fit into its future plans. While it has been a staple since the late 1970s, newer, crispier chicken options are dominating fast food menus. CNN notes that Burger King is investing heavily in its newer Royal Crispy Chicken sandwiches, which could eventually push out the classic version.
The Original Chicken Sandwich is known for its long, sesame-seed bun and lightly breaded chicken patty. While some appreciate its nostalgic appeal, others prefer the thicker, juicier chicken sandwiches now available. If Burger King decides to simplify its menu, this old-school favorite may not make the cut.
4. Subway’s Cold Cut Combo
Subway has been undergoing a major menu transformation, emphasizing premium meats and fresh ingredients. As part of this shift, some of its more budget-friendly sandwiches may be phased out. Forbes reports that Subway is prioritizing high-quality, freshly sliced meats, which could mean the Cold Cut Combo’s days are numbered.
This sandwich, featuring a mix of turkey-based ham, bologna, and salami, has long been one of Subway’s most affordable options. However, with the chain focusing on “elevated” sandwiches, simpler, processed meat combinations may not fit the brand’s new direction. Fans who love the Cold Cut Combo’s affordability might have to look elsewhere.
5. KFC’s Popcorn Chicken
KFC’s Popcorn Chicken has been a fan favorite for years, but it has already been removed from some locations. The company has been pushing its newer chicken nugget recipe instead. These nuggets feature a different texture and breading style, making them distinct from the classic popcorn version.
Popcorn Chicken’s bite-sized convenience made it a popular snack option. However, as KFC refines its menu to focus on larger, more premium chicken pieces, some longtime offerings may not return. If sales of the new nuggets remain strong, KFC may phase out Popcorn Chicken altogether.
6. Wendy’s Vanilla Frosty
Wendy’s Frosty lineup has been shifting in recent years, with seasonal flavors like peppermint and strawberry taking the spotlight. While the Chocolate Frosty remains a permanent menu item, the Vanilla Frosty has been replaced multiple times. If this trend continues, vanilla fans may soon be out of luck.
The Vanilla Frosty was introduced in 2006 and quickly gained a following. However, as Wendy’s experiments with new flavors, it appears to be lower on the priority list. With limited machine space in restaurants, seasonal flavors often take precedence over vanilla.
7. Arby’s Potato Cakes
Arby’s Potato Cakes were quietly removed from menus in 2021, but many fans still hope for a comeback. Despite customer demand, Arby’s has yet to reintroduce them, instead focusing on curly fries and crinkle-cut fries. The company’s continued silence suggests that a return is unlikely.
Potato Cakes were a favorite for those who preferred a crispy, hash-brown-style side. Their unique texture set them apart from standard fries, making them a go-to choice for some customers. Unfortunately, with fries dominating Arby’s side menu, the chances of Potato Cakes making a return remain slim.
8. Dairy Queen’s Cherry-Dipped Cones
Dairy Queen’s Cherry-Dipped Cones have disappeared from multiple locations, leaving fans concerned. While the chocolate dip remains a classic, cherry lovers have found it increasingly hard to find. Some locations have reported supply shortages, making its return uncertain.
The cherry coating added a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the creamy vanilla soft serve. Many longtime customers grew up enjoying this nostalgic treat. However, as Dairy Queen rotates its offerings, the cherry dip may not be a permanent fixture.
9. Sonic’s Pickle-O’s
Sonic’s fried pickle chips, known as Pickle-O’s, have been a cult favorite for years. However, they are now a rare find on menus. While Sonic still offers pickles as a burger topping, the standalone fried version is disappearing.
Pickle-O’s were a unique alternative to standard fried sides. Their tangy crunch made them a favorite among fried pickle lovers. But as Sonic focuses on its core menu, these crispy bites may not make a widespread comeback.
10. Popeyes Cajun Rice
Popeyes removed Cajun Rice from its menu in 2021 but later brought it back in limited locations. However, its availability remains inconsistent, and it could be discontinued again. Many customers still request its return, but Popeyes seems to be prioritizing newer side options.
The dish’s bold seasoning set it apart from typical fast food sides. It was especially popular among customers looking for something beyond fries or biscuits. Unless demand spikes, Cajun Rice may not be a permanent menu fixture.
11. Jack in the Box’s Monster Tacos
Jack in the Box frequently rotates its menu, and Monster Tacos have come and gone multiple times. Although they returned in 2023 for a limited run, there’s no guarantee they will stay. The company often replaces them with new promotional items.
These oversized tacos were a favorite for those who wanted a heartier option. However, Jack in the Box tends to focus on variety, making permanent menu spots difficult to secure. Fans should grab them while they can.
12. Shake Shack’s Crinkle-Cut Cheese Fries
Shake Shack’s Crinkle-Cut Cheese Fries have been on and off the menu, with some locations phasing them out. While the classic fries remain, the cheese-topped version has become harder to find. Some customers have speculated that consistency issues may be a factor.
The gooey cheese sauce added an extra layer of indulgence to the crispy fries. However, as Shake Shack continues expanding, streamlining the menu may take priority. Whether cheese fries will remain a staple is uncertain.
13. White Castle’s Clam Strips
White Castle’s Clam Strips were once a beloved seafood option but have disappeared from many locations. As the chain focuses on its signature sliders, specialty seafood items have taken a backseat. Unless demand rises significantly, they may not return.
Clam Strips offered a crispy, ocean-inspired alternative to traditional fast food. Their niche appeal made them a favorite for some customers. However, limited seafood demand means White Castle is unlikely to bring them back full-time.
