1. Taco Bell Enchirito
The Enchirito, a unique mashup of an enchilada and a burrito, was a staple on the Taco Bell menu for decades, first introduced in 1970 and running until its initial discontinuation in 2013. The dish consisted of seasoned beef, beans, and onions rolled in a soft flour tortilla, which was then smothered in a savory red enchilada sauce and topped with melted shredded cheese. Its status as a long-running favorite led to a dedicated fan base that successfully petitioned for its return. Taco Bell has since honored this loyalty by periodically bringing the Enchirito back for limited-time engagements, often through fan-voted campaigns, underscoring its historical significance and ongoing popularity.
2. Burger King Cini Minis
These bite-sized cinnamon rolls were a beloved sweet treat that first joined the Burger King menu in 1998 and were a popular item throughout the late 90s and early 2000s. The Cini Minis offered a warm, gooey dessert perfect for breakfast or any time of day, served with a side of sweet icing for dipping. Their discontinuation in 2012 sparked years of petitioning by loyal fans who cherished the nostalgic comfort of the tiny, sugary rolls. Following a long hiatus, Burger King listened to the overwhelming demand, bringing them back for limited-time runs, cementing their status as a fan-favorite treat worth fighting for.
3. McDonald’s Szechuan Sauce
The Szechuan Sauce was originally a limited-time dipping sauce released by McDonald’s in 1998 to promote the Disney film Mulan. It was largely forgotten until 2017 when a mention in an episode of the animated show Rick and Morty reignited a massive, fan-driven demand for its return. This cult-favorite sauce, featuring flavors of soy, garlic, ginger, and vinegar, quickly became a social media phenomenon, with some original 1998 packets selling for exorbitant amounts online. McDonald’s has responded to the fervor with several limited-time re-releases, often making the sauce available exclusively through their mobile app, a testament to its current-day pop culture status and desirability.
4. Arby’s Potato Cakes
First introduced on the original Arby’s menu in 1964, the Potato Cake was a classic side dish that pre-dated the chain’s famous Curly Fries. These shredded potatoes were formed into a triangular patty and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown, offering a unique alternative to traditional fries. Despite their multi-decade run and loyal following, the Potato Cakes were phased out in 2021 due to the overwhelming popularity and prioritization of the Curly Fries. Their disappearance prompted an immediate outcry from fans, leading Arby’s to occasionally reintroduce them for brief periods, underscoring the strong nostalgic connection many customers have to this classic, rectangular side.
5. Wendy’s Superbar
Wendy’s expanded their salad bar in 1988 into the “Superbar,” a full-blown buffet concept that was unlike anything else offered in major fast food at the time. For a single price, customers could choose from three themed areas: the Salad Sensations section, a “Pasta Pasta” bar with various hot dishes and sauces, and a “Mexican Fiesta” area featuring taco and nacho fixings. Although the Superbar was a popular attraction, the logistical difficulties and operational costs associated with maintaining a fresh, comprehensive fast-food buffet ultimately led to its discontinuation in 1998. It remains a legendary item that offered an unprecedented level of choice and value.
6. Taco Bell Volcano Menu
Taco Bell’s Volcano Menu, featuring the iconic Lava Sauce, was a short-lived but fiercely beloved collection of items launched in the late 2000s. The Lava Sauce, a creamy, spicy blend of nacho cheese, red bell peppers, and chili powder, was famous for being one of the spiciest sauces the chain ever offered. The menu was anchored by the Volcano Taco and Volcano Burrito, which featured the sauce and red tortilla shells in some iterations. The menu was discontinued, but due to years of relentless demand, including numerous fan petitions and social media campaigns, Taco Bell brought it back for a limited time in 2023, thrilling those who missed the fiery flavor profile.
7. McDonald’s McDLT
The McDLT, which stood for McDonald’s Lettuce and Tomato, debuted in 1984 as the chain’s attempt to compete directly with rival burger offerings. Its unique selling point was the packaging: a two-part styrofoam container designed to “Keep the hot side hot and the cool side cool.” One side held the hot beef patty and the bottom bun, while the other contained the cold fixings, lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and the top bun. The customer would assemble the burger right before eating. While the temperature separation was initially a hit, the sandwich was ultimately discontinued in the early 1990s, largely due to public pressure to switch away from the environmentally unfriendly polystyrene container.
8. McDonald’s Arch Deluxe
Launched in 1996, the Arch Deluxe was part of a major initiative by McDonald’s to appeal to a more “adult” palate. Marketed as a premium burger, it featured a quarter-pound of beef, circular slices of peppered bacon, leafy lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions, and a distinct mustard-mayonnaise sauce, all on a potato-flour sesame seed bun. Despite having the largest advertising and promotional budget in fast food history at the time, the item failed to catch on with the wider public, who often associated McDonald’s with simpler, less expensive fare. It was quietly discontinued shortly after its debut, becoming a famous example of a major fast-food failure despite massive investment.
9. Pizza Hut P’Zone
The Pizza Hut P’Zone, essentially a giant calzone, was first introduced in 2002 and became a popular, hand-held alternative to a traditional pizza. It was a baked dough pocket filled with various pizza toppings, like pepperoni or ham, and ample amounts of melted cheese, served with a marinara dipping sauce on the side. This menu item became closely associated with the NCAA March Madness basketball tournament, often returning for limited-time offers during that season. Its compact, foldable nature made it an ideal food for eating while watching sports, which contributed to its status as a highly requested and nostalgic item that fans eagerly anticipate during its sporadic comebacks.
10. Taco Bell Caramel Apple Empanada
These flaky, dessert turnovers were a popular item on the Taco Bell menu for several years, offering a sweet ending to a meal. The Caramel Apple Empanada featured a golden, crispy pastry shell filled with a warm blend of sweet diced apples and a rich caramel sauce. It was a simple, comforting, and affordable dessert that achieved a substantial fan following. The item’s discontinuation resulted in disappointment among those who appreciated its balance of warm fruit, gooey caramel, and flaky crust, leading to ongoing calls for its permanent return, especially since Taco Bell has introduced various other limited-edition desserts over the years.
11. KFC Double Down
KFC caused a sensation when they launched the bun-less Double Down in 2010. This revolutionary “sandwich” replaced the traditional bread with two pieces of fried chicken fillet, enclosing two slices of bacon, Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese, and the Colonel’s sauce. The dish became an instant fast food icon, stirring up significant media buzz and influencing a decade of “stunt food” by challenging the traditional sandwich structure. Though originally intended as a limited-time offering, its immense popularity prompted multiple revivals in various international markets, proving its enduring appeal. The Double Down remains a symbol of decadent fast-food innovation that fans would gladly welcome back to menus worldwide.
12. Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Nuggets
Wendy’s originally released a spicy twist on its classic Chicken Nuggets in 2009, and they quickly developed a loyal, dedicated following due to their distinctly seasoned breading that offered a noticeable kick of heat. Despite their popularity, the Spicy Chicken Nuggets were removed from the menu in 2017 as part of a move to simplify the menu. The widespread outcry, including a massive social media campaign fueled by celebrities and regular customers, convinced the chain to bring the item back permanently in 2019. The successful fan petition demonstrated the power of customer demand in fast food, proving that a truly beloved item can, in fact, make a permanent comeback.
13. McDonald’s Fried Apple Pie
Before 1992, McDonald’s famously served its Apple Pies deep-fried, not baked, in most US markets. This cooking method resulted in a distinctively blistered, super-crispy crust and a scalding hot, gooey apple filling. The shift to a baked recipe was part of an overall effort to offer ostensibly healthier menu options. However, the deep-fried version is often cited as a pinnacle of nostalgic fast-food desserts, celebrated for its unique texture and richer flavor. Although the baked version is the standard today, the original fried pie still retains a dedicated following, with a few international markets maintaining the classic, deep-fried preparation.
14. McDonalds Snack Wraps
Fast food fans have long memories, and many discontinued favorites still inspire petitions for a return. McDonalds Snack Wraps are one of the most missed items because they offered a perfect middle ground between a full sandwich and a quick snack. Launched in 2006, they featured grilled or crispy chicken, shredded cheese, lettuce, and a flavored sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They were portable, flavorful, and ideal for customers who wanted something lighter. Their removal in 2016 disappointed a huge portion of the fanbase. Many still ask McDonalds daily to bring back the simple wrap they loved.
15. Subway Seafood and Crab Sub
The Subway Seafood and Crab Sub was a comforting favorite for customers who enjoyed its creamy texture and mild seafood flavor. Made from a blend of imitation crab, pollock, and mayonnaise, it offered a refreshing change from heavier deli meats. Fans often paired it with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles to create a balanced and tasty sandwich. Although not the most widely ordered item, it had a loyal fan base that appreciated its unique flavor. Rising ingredient costs eventually pushed it off the menu, but many customers still hope Subway will revive this nostalgic classic one day.
16. Taco Bell Bell Beefer
The Taco Bell Bell Beefer became popular in the 1970s as the chain’s answer to the classic fast food burger. Instead of a traditional patty, it featured seasoned Taco Bell ground beef served on a hamburger bun with lettuce, onions, and mild sauce. It tasted like a taco inspired sloppy joe and developed a dedicated following over the years. Although discontinued in the 1990s, the Bell Beefer remains one of Taco Bells most requested retired items. Fans frequently reminisce about its simple and messy goodness. Many still hope it will return for a limited time so newer customers can experience it.
17. KFC Potato Wedges
KFC Potato Wedges were a longtime favorite known for their thick cut shape, seasoned coating, and crispy outside with a fluffy inside. They paired perfectly with fried chicken and gravy, offering a heartier alternative to traditional fries. When KFC replaced them with Secret Recipe Fries in 2020, many customers were frustrated because the wedges had been part of the menu for decades. The seasoning blend and satisfying texture made them memorable for fans who still talk about them today. Even though KFC continues promoting newer sides, the call for Potato Wedges remains strong among customers who miss their classic taste.
18. McDonalds Angus Third Pounders
McDonalds Angus Third Pounders were introduced in 2009 to offer a premium burger option with thicker patties and upgraded toppings. Varieties like Mushroom and Swiss, Bacon and Cheese, and Deluxe quickly gained attention for their rich flavor and upscale presentation. Customers who wanted a higher quality fast food burger appreciated the effort to elevate the menu. Despite positive reviews, rising beef prices and menu simplification eventually led to their removal in 2013. Many still remember the juicy patties and bakery style buns fondly. Discussions about discontinued McDonalds items regularly include the Angus line as a top contender for a comeback.
19. Pizza Hut Big New Yorker
The Pizza Hut Big New Yorker debuted in 1999 and quickly became a favorite for fans who loved oversized, foldable slices reminiscent of New York style pizza. The large sixteen inch pie featured a bold, seasoned sauce and a generous layer of cheese, making it ideal for parties or family dinners. Its unique size and style made it stand out from standard pizza offerings. Although it disappeared for many years, its devoted fan base kept asking for its return. Pizza Hut briefly revived it in 2023, proving the Big New Yorker still holds a strong nostalgic place in customers memories.
20. Burger King Chicken Fries Rings
Burger King Chicken Fries Rings were a fun twist on the original Chicken Fries and became a popular snack for customers who enjoyed their circular shape and seasoned breading. The crispy texture and easy dipping format made them an instant hit, especially among younger audiences. Although the classic Chicken Fries returned to the menu, the Rings quietly faded away and never received the same revival. Fans still mention them when discussing discontinued Burger King favorites, remembering their playful shape and satisfying crunch. Many hope Burger King will reintroduce them someday so customers can enjoy the lighthearted snack once again.
21. Dairy Queen Breeze
The Dairy Queen Breeze was introduced as a lighter alternative to the classic Blizzard and was made with frozen yogurt instead of ice cream. It offered the same mix in customization, allowing customers to combine fruit, candy, or cookie pieces with a tangier base. The Breeze attracted fans who wanted a dessert that felt less indulgent while still offering Dairy Queens signature creamy texture. It disappeared largely because frozen yogurt was not consistently stocked across all locations. Despite this, customers who enjoyed the flavor and variety still talk about the Breeze and consider it one of Dairy Queens most forgotten gems.
22. Taco Bell MexiMelt
The Taco Bell MexiMelt was a warm, cheesy favorite that blended seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh pico de gallo wrapped in a soft tortilla. Heated just enough to melt the cheese without losing the freshness of the pico, it offered a balanced combination of flavors that felt both comforting and satisfying. The MexiMelt stayed on the menu for decades before being discontinued around 2019. Its simple ingredients and comforting taste made it a dependable choice for many loyal customers. Even today, fans continue requesting its return because nothing else on the menu replicates its exact combination of textures and flavors.
23. Pizza Hut Bigfoot Pizza
The Pizza Hut Bigfoot Pizza arrived in 1993 and quickly became a nostalgic favorite for families who enjoyed its oversized rectangular shape. Measuring two feet long and more than a foot wide, it was designed for sharing at sleepovers, sports nights, and birthday parties. The size alone made it memorable and allowed Pizza Hut to stand out from competitors. Although discontinued in the early 2000s, people who grew up with the Bigfoot still recall its enormous slices and fun presentation. Fans frequently discuss the item online and hope Pizza Hut will someday bring back this larger than life classic for a new generation.
24. Arbys Loaded Potato Bites
Arbys Loaded Potato Bites were small, crispy fried bites filled with a seasoned blend of potatoes, cheese, and bacon pieces. Paired with ranch dipping sauce, they created a flavorful and satisfying snack that quickly developed a fan base. Their crunchy exterior and cheesy interior made them a standout item on the menu. Despite their popularity, they were eventually removed as Arbys shifted its side offerings. Fans still mention them when discussing discontinued fast food favorites and often request their return. People who enjoyed the Loaded Potato Bites remember them as one of the chains most flavorful and comforting snack options.
25. Jack in the Box Cheesy Macaroni Bites
Jack in the Box Cheesy Macaroni Bites were a memorable comfort food creation that combined crispy breading with creamy macaroni and cheese inside. Popular in the 2000s, they appealed to customers who loved indulgent snacks with a satisfying crunch. Although the chain frequently experiments with bold and creative menu items, the original Macaroni Bites never returned after disappearing. Fans who grew up eating them still remember their warm, cheesy filling and unique texture. Many hope the chain will eventually revive the Bites, especially since fried macaroni appetizers have become widely popular. Their absence remains a frequent topic among nostalgic customers.
26. McDonalds Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
The McDonalds Fruit and Yogurt Parfait was a long running menu favorite for customers seeking a lighter breakfast or snack. Introduced in 2000, it featured creamy vanilla yogurt layered with strawberries, blueberries, and crunchy granola. It was affordable, refreshing, and popular with both kids and adults. During the streamlined menu changes in 2020, the parfait was removed, disappointing many who appreciated having a healthier option available. Fans still mention it among McDonalds most missed items and continue hoping for its return. The parfait remains a symbol of how simple menu offerings can develop dedicated followers over time.
27. Popeyes Cajun Rice
Popeyes Cajun Rice was a savory side dish that paired seasoned rice with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and Louisiana spices. It offered a flavorful and comforting complement to the chains famous fried chicken. When Popeyes discontinued it in 2021, fans immediately expressed frustration because the dish had been a staple for so long. Its unique seasoning and hearty texture made it stand out from typical fast-food sides. The brief return in 2023 showed how strong the demand remained. Customers still talk about Cajun Rice as one of Popeyes most distinctive sides and hope it becomes a permanent menu option again.
28. Burger King Cheesy Tots
Burger King Cheesy Tots were crispy potato bites filled with melted cheese, creating a comforting snack that became popular in the mid 2000s. They were especially loved for their crispy outside and creamy interior, making them a perfect dipping item. Although the chain has brought them back several times for limited periods, they have never stayed on the menu permanently. Each reappearance sparks excitement followed by disappointment when they vanish again. Fans frequently mention Cheesy Tots as one of Burger Kings most lovable discontinued items and hope they will eventually join the menu full time rather than disappearing after short promotions.
29. Wendys Frescata Sandwiches
Wendys Frescata Sandwiches were introduced in the mid 2000s as a fresher alternative to typical fast food offerings. Served on artisan style bread, options included turkey and Swiss, ham and Swiss, and a pesto turkey version that became especially popular. Although fans enjoyed the flavor and premium style, the sandwiches required more preparation time than standard menu items. Wendys discontinued them in 2007, but the Frescatas still hold a nostalgic place in many customers memories. People who loved the line often discuss it when talking about discontinued Wendys items and continue hoping the company might someday revive one of its most unique offerings.
30. Sonic French Toast Sticks
Sonics French Toast Sticks became a beloved breakfast treat thanks to their warm cinnamon flavor, thick cut bread, and crispy exterior. When served with sweet maple syrup, they offered a comforting start to the morning and became a regular order for many customers. The item has disappeared and reappeared across different markets over the years, which has frustrated fans who loved its consistency and nostalgic taste. Despite changing breakfast menus, the French Toast Sticks remain one of Sonics most requested items. Customers continue asking for a widespread comeback so they can enjoy the familiar flavor that made the sticks memorable.
31. Del Taco Bun Taco
The Del Taco Bun Taco was a quirky favorite that replaced the typical crunchy shell with a soft hamburger bun. Filled with seasoned beef, shredded lettuce, cheese, and taco sauce, it offered a playful blend of burger and taco flavors. Many customers loved its simplicity and found the combination surprisingly delicious. Although discontinued many years ago, the Bun Taco still has a cult following among longtime fans who grew up eating it. People often try recreating it at home because no other item captures its unique charm. Nostalgic customers continue asking Del Taco to bring it back for a special limited time return.
It’s fascinating to see how certain dishes hold a special, almost sacred place in our collective memory, tied as much to nostalgia as to flavor. Whether it’s a spicy sauce, a crispy side, or a revolutionary sandwich, these menu items prove that sometimes, the simplest things are the ones we miss the most.
Which legendary treat from this list is at the top of your petition? Add your thoughts in the comments, thank you.
This story 31 Fast-Food Menu Items We’d Start a Petition to Bring Back was first published on Daily FETCH
