On June 17, 1992, a momentous event took place in Warsaw that would mark a significant shift in Poland’s culinary landscape. On this day, the first McDonald’s restaurant opened its doors at the bustling intersection of Marszałkowska and Świętokrzyska streets, in the former SEZAM Center.
The excitement was palpable as eager patrons formed a long queue to experience the iconic American fast-food chain. The turnout was extraordinary, with over 45,000 people visiting the restaurant within just a few hours. This enthusiastic response set a world record, with 13,304 transactions recorded on the opening day alone, as noted by McDonald’s on their website.
In those early days, the menu was simple yet enticing, featuring staples such as burgers, double burgers, cheeseburgers, double cheeseburgers, Big Macs, fries, drinks, ice cream, and milkshakes. These offerings quickly became favorites among Polish customers, symbolizing a new era of dining options in the post-communist era.
Fast forward to today, McDonald’s has become a ubiquitous presence in Poland, boasting over 550 restaurants nationwide. The brand’s successful expansion reflects not only its popularity but also the significant changes in Polish society and economy over the past three decades.