The author attempted to find a McDonald’s “dinner box” after seeing a viral TikTok video showcasing a great deal of food for $12. However, the availability of these deals varies by location as franchisees make their own decisions on offering them. While the author’s local McDonald’s did not have the specific “dinner box” deal, they were able to save money using the McDonald’s app. The inconsistency of these deals seems to be a common theme, as prices and promotions are determined by franchise owners.
Following the TikTok user’s experience, the author embarked on their own search for the elusive $12 “dinner box” at nearby McDonald’s locations. However, they found the family-style meal combos available were not sufficient for their family of four. Each franchisee determines which promotions to offer, including “dinner box” deals, leading to varied results based on location. The best way to find out if a McDonald’s has a “dinner box” is to inquire in person or check the Shareables section of the McDonald’s app.
Unable to locate a standard “dinner box,” the author decided to customize their own meal with similar menu items. They opted for a combination of two Shareables packs to feed their family of four, totaling around $40. Utilizing a 20% off deal through the McDonald’s app, they were able to lower the cost to $34. However, upon picking up their order, there were delays, missing sauces for their McNuggets, and some dissatisfaction with the overall value for the price paid.
Overall, the author found their McDonald’s dinner experience to be lacking in terms of both affordability and quality. Despite efforts to replicate the $12 “dinner box” from the viral TikTok video, they felt that the meal did not offer the same convenience or savings. Comparing the pricing and quality to other fast-casual chains, the author believes there are better options available for family meals in the $30 to $40 price range. While they may not repeat the experience, they highlight the potential benefits of checking the McDonald’s app for ongoing promotions.
In conclusion, although the author’s attempt to find a discounted McDonald’s “dinner box” did not yield the expected results, they acknowledge the value of utilizing the McDonald’s app for savings on future purchases. Each franchise determines its own promotions and prices, leading to varying availability of deals like the “dinner box.” While the author may not revisit the Shareables menu, they encourage others to explore the app for discounts and deals. Depending on the location and franchisee, customers may still have the opportunity to score a bargain on meals at McDonald’s, though results may vary.
