When most people think of Queen Elizabeth II’s possessions, their minds conjure images of majestic castles, opulent palaces, and perhaps even a few racetracks or luxury hotels. However, there’s a surprising asset in her royal portfolio that many are unaware of—a McDonald’s restaurant, and it’s nothing short of regal.
The Royal Land of McDonald’s
Tucked away in the Banbury Gateway Shopping Park in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom lies a McDonald’s restaurant with a difference. What sets it apart from your typical fast-food joint is that Queen Elizabeth II owned the land, courtesy of the Crown Estate. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill McDonald’s, and let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.
Allure/ Instagram | McDonald’s fit for a queen – where fast food meets regal comfort.
A Feast for the Senses
Situated 80 miles outside of bustling London, this McDonald’s establishment offers its patrons an experience fit for royalty. The first hint of its uniqueness is the table service. That’s right; diners here can enjoy bringing their orders to their tables. As you step inside, you’ll find yourself ensconced in plush leather couches, seated on sleek designer replica chairs, and surrounded by an ambiance that redefines fast-food dining.
Technology takes center stage with digital menus that add a touch of sophistication to the ordering process. And for those whose smartphones are running low on battery, fret not—wireless charging ports are conveniently placed at your disposal, allowing you to indulge in your meal without worrying about losing connectivity.
A Culinary Adventure
Of course, the food here is a cut above the rest. This royal McDonald’s serves up some decidedly British offerings alongside the familiar McDonald’s classics. Patrons can relish a hearty serving of porridge, savor the comforting warmth of English Breakfast tea, or indulge in a delicious bacon butty (a bacon sandwich for those unfamiliar with British slang).
Jill Evans/ Pexels | McDonald’s is the largest restaurant chain
Her Majesty’s Fast Food Habits
While the notion of Queen Elizabeth II savoring a McDonald’s meal may tickle the imagination, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that she has ever dined at this particular establishment or any other McDonald’s worldwide. No reports of Grubhub deliveries making their way to Buckingham Palace with McNuggets in tow.
However, there’s one surprising culinary tidbit about the queen—she has never tasted pizza. You read that correctly: the beloved food many of us enjoy regularly has never graced Her Majesty’s palate.
This revelation came to light when a curious royal fan asked Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, about the queen’s pizza preferences. Kate admitted uncertainty, as she had never witnessed the queen indulging in a slice.
To further confirm this culinary quirk, Darren McGrady, former chef at Buckingham Palace, revealed that he had never prepared pizza for the monarch during his 11 years of royal culinary service. Pizza was notably absent from the queen’s menu even during their travels.
Sarah MP/ Pexels | McCafé is a coffee-house-style food and beverage chain owned by McDonald’s.
McDonald’s and the Princes
While Queen Elizabeth II may not have been seen munching on a Big Mac, her grandsons, Prince William and Prince Harry, have different tales to tell. As youngsters, they occasionally dined at McDonald’s, thanks to the late Princess Diana’s desire to provide them with experiences common to other children their age.
Recalling these moments, Darren McGrady shared a delightful anecdote. “I remember the princess came into the kitchen one day and said, ‘Cancel lunch for the boys, I’m taking them out, we’re going to McDonald’s.’ And I said, ‘Oh my God, Your Royal Highness, I can do that, I can do burgers.’
But she replied, ‘No, it’s the toy they want.’ The boys loved McDonald’s, going out for pizza, and savoring American foods like potato skins. They may have been royal princes but had children’s palates.” In the grand tapestry of Queen Elizabeth II’s possessions, her ownership of a McDonald’s restaurant may seem like an unexpected thread.
Still, it serves as a reminder that even the most regal figures can have a taste for the everyday pleasures of life. So, the next time you find yourself at the Banbury Gateway Shopping Park, consider dining like royalty at the Queen’s McDonald’s.
