American McDonald’s Fans Are Jealous Because Europe Serves Beer
American McDonald’s customers are used to soda machines, drive-thru lanes, and meals built for speed. Beer has never been part of that picture. That is why it surprises many people to learn that in several European countries, McDonald’s legally serves beer alongside burgers and fries, just like any other menu item.
The difference comes down to how the company adjusts to local norms rather than following one rigid global model.
Outside the United States, McDonald’s allows much more regional flexibility. While the core menu stays recognizable, local franchises shape the dining experience around everyday habits. In parts of Europe, having a beer with lunch or dinner is routine, not a special occasion. Offering it at a fast-food restaurant feels normal there, not like a novelty or a rule-breaker.
Where McDonald’s Serves Beer
Beer is available at select McDonald’s locations across multiple European countries, including Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Greece, and the Czech Republic. Availability is not uniform. Some locations sell beer while others in the same country do not, depending on licensing rules and franchise decisions.
Germany was among the earliest markets to include beer, given its role in everyday meals. Some German locations later removed alcohol from their menus, while others continue to sell bottled options.
Spanish and Portuguese restaurants often carry domestic lagers, and Italian locations have been known to serve Peroni. These drinks are typically limited to meal service and sold in controlled quantities.
Why the U.S. Menu Excludes Alcohol
Image via Wikimedia Commons/G. Edward Johnson
McDonald’s in the United States has avoided alcohol for practical reasons tied to how the business operates. The chain runs thousands of locations across states with different liquor laws, and many rely heavily on drive-thru service. Introducing alcohol would add regulatory complexity and raise concerns connected to vehicle-based ordering.
Brand positioning also plays a role. U.S. McDonald’s restaurants are designed around a family-friendly atmosphere, and alcohol does not fit comfortably within that model. While some American chains have tested limited alcohol service, McDonald’s has kept its approach uniform nationwide.
The United Kingdom follows a similar path. McDonald’s UK has stated that alcohol does not align with its restaurant operations and that customer demand has not supported adding it to the menu.
How Franchise Structure Shapes the Menu
McDonald’s global franchise system allows local operators to make certain decisions within company guidelines. Corporate standards govern branding and operations, but franchise owners in many countries can introduce menu items as long as they comply with national laws and internal policies.
In parts of Europe, beer fits into this structure without disrupting service. Sales are usually limited to a single drink per order, served without refills, and available only in dine-in settings. These limits keep alcohol service consistent with the rest of the restaurant’s operations.