A TikTok user in Texas revealed a “secret” $12 dinner box at McDonald’s that can feed up to five people for half the price of a la carte items. The video went viral with 12 million views and showed the user ordering the box at a drive-thru, where it was confirmed by the cashier. The box included two cheeseburgers, four small fries, a 10-piece McNuggets, and two Big Macs with sauces, costing $12.19 before tax. The meal was a much better deal compared to ordering items separately or choosing a combo meal on the menu.
The undisclosed dinner box was not well-known, and many commenters were surprised by its existence. Some users mentioned that prices at their local McDonald’s were different, with variations in the box’s contents as well. McDonald’s prices vary by location due to the fact that 90% of the restaurants are independently owned and operated by franchisees, who have the freedom to set their own prices based on various factors such as property prices, gas prices, interest rates, health insurance costs, and inflation.
The revelation of the $12 dinner box came at a time when customers were upset about the increase in McDonald’s food prices in some locations, which led to an $18 Big Mac meal. The rising prices were attributed to increasing equipment and labor costs. However, Texas, where the dinner box was found, has the lowest McDonald’s prices in the country, with customers paying nearly 10% less than the national average. This could explain why the dinner box was a good deal for the TikTok user and her family.
The TikTok user was pleased to share the money-saving tip with her followers and mentioned that the dinner box was enough to feed her family of five. Despite skepticism from some commenters about the price differences in various locations, the popularity of the video shows that people are interested in finding deals and savings, especially during times of inflation. The unexpected discovery of the dinner box at McDonald’s highlights the importance of staying informed about hidden menu items that can offer significant savings.
The video showcased the desire for cost-effective dining options at popular fast-food chains like McDonald’s. Many consumers are looking for ways to stretch their budget while still enjoying meals out with family and friends. The success of the TikTok video and subsequent media coverage of the $12 dinner box demonstrates the power of social media in sharing money-saving tips and helping consumers navigate the constantly changing landscape of food prices and dining options. Overall, the existence of the “secret” dinner box at McDonald’s serves as a reminder that exploring off-menu items and asking about deals can lead to significant savings.
