Fast Food in Germany: How McDonald’s, Burger King, and Local Chains Compare

If you’re craving a quick bite, you might think, No problem, I’ll just hit up McDonald’s or Burger King. And sure, you’ll find them here, but fast food in Germany is a whole different ballgame. Pricing, quality, and even what’s considered "fast food" don’t always align with what you'd expect back home.

And let’s be real—while the big American chains exist, Germany’s true fast-food king isn’t a burger joint. It’s Döner kebab.

McDonald’s Germany vs. McDonald’s USA: What’s Different?

First off, McDonald’s in Germany feels fancier than in the U.S. Many locations have sleek interiors, self-order kiosks (which actually work well), and better-quality food.

What Stands Out?

• The McCrispy (instead of McChicken) – A crispier, more premium-tasting chicken sandwich.

• The McRib is always on the menu – Unlike in the U.S., where it randomly comes and goes, Germans get to enjoy this BBQ classic year-round.

• Beer with your burger – Yep, you can order a McDonald’s meal with a cold beer. No need to sneak in your own.

• Better Ingredients? – The beef tastes slightly fresher, and even the buns seem less artificial. Maybe it’s the EU food regulations.

Pricing

McDonald’s in Germany isn’t as cheap as in the U.S. A Big Mac meal will set you back about €9-10 ($10-11), which is comparable to American prices, but portions are slightly smaller. You also pay for ketchup. Yes, they charge you extra for every tiny packet, and it stings every time.

Burger King Germany: The Underdog That Tries Hard

Burger King is McDonald’s scrappier rival in Germany, just like in the U.S. But here’s the twist: Burger King is actually a little cheaper and often runs better deals.

What’s Different?

• More aggressive discounts – The app deals are way better than McDonald’s. You can get two burgers for under €5 if you time it right.

• Spicier menu – Germany gets exclusive BK items like the "Chili Cheese" everything—Chili Cheese Nuggets, Chili Cheese Fries, and even a Chili Cheese Whopper.

• Flame-Grilled Taste Is Bigger Here – The smoky, grilled flavor is more noticeable compared to the U.S.

Pricing

Generally, Burger King is about 10-15% cheaper than McDonald’s, but the difference isn’t massive. However, if you’re penny-pinching, BK wins on value.

KFC Germany: Weirdly Fancy?

KFC exists in Germany, but it’s not as common as McDonald’s or Burger King. And get this—it’s actually kind of fancy.

• Most locations are modern, clean, and almost sit-down restaurant-like.

• Chicken quality is higher than U.S. KFC, but the selection is smaller.

• No biscuits! Instead, they serve coleslaw, fries, or corn.

Pricing

A meal will cost around €8-10, making it more expensive than Burger King but in the same range as McDonald’s.

Germany’s Real Fast-Food King: Döner Kebab

Let’s be honest. If you ask any German what the best fast food is, they’re not going to say McDonald’s or Burger King. They’re going to say Döner.

What is Döner?

If you’ve never had Döner, imagine a giant rotisserie of spiced meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken), shaved into thin slices, stuffed into a warm flatbread, and topped with fresh veggies, garlic sauce, and spicy chili sauce.

It’s like a gyro but better. And unlike in the U.S., where kebab is a niche food, Döner is a mainstream staple in Germany. You’ll find it on every street corner, at every train station, and even in tiny villages.

Why is Döner King?

1. It’s Cheap – A giant Döner costs around €5-7 ($5-8) and is way more filling than a fast-food burger.

2. It’s Fresh – Even though it’s fast food, Döner is loaded with fresh veggies, making it feel healthier (even if it’s not).

3. It’s Everywhere – Finding McDonald’s at 2 AM is tough. Finding a Döner stand at 2 AM? Easy.

Fun fact: Döner was actually invented in Germany by Turkish immigrants in the 1970s, and it’s now one of the most beloved foods in the country.

Other Fast-Food Chains Worth Knowing

Besides the big names, Germany has a few local fast-food chains that deserve a mention:

• Nordsee – A seafood fast-food chain offering fish sandwiches, shrimp bowls, and grilled salmon. Think of it as Germany’s Long John Silver’s, but way fresher.

• Currywurst Stands – Another German favorite. Currywurst is basically chopped bratwurst covered in curry ketchup and served with fries. Every city has their own legendary stand (Berlin has Curry 36, for example).

• Backwerk – A self-service bakery chain with cheap sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Great for a quick bite.

Final Verdict: What’s the Best Fast Food in Germany?

It depends on what you’re looking for:

🍔 Best for Classic Fast Food: McDonald’s (but pricier than in the U.S.)
🔥 Best Deals: Burger King (cheaper and better discounts)
🍗 Best Fried Chicken: KFC (fancier but solid quality)
🌯 Best Overall Fast Food: Döner Kebab (cheap, filling, and delicious)

So, if you’re in Germany and craving fast food, sure, you can go for McDonald’s or Burger King. But if you really want to eat like a local, skip the burgers and grab a Döner instead. You won’t regret it.

Would you go for a Döner over a Big Mac? Or are you sticking to what you know? Let me know your go-to fast food pick in Germany! 🚀🍔🌯

Photo by: Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernández