McDonald's Delivers Shot to Ribs

There are few things in fast food which are genuinely exciting. Every so often, one of the bigger chains will release a new item that attracts a great deal of short-term attention. The item, depending on its success will either be added to the permanent roster or dumped entirely. One item more than any other transcends this trend: the coveted McRib.


While a potent force in the food world all on its own, the creative (or wicked) marketing strategy McDonald's employs with the McRib is what has garnered the sandwich a near-cult following. The McRib makes yearly "farewell" tours around the country, emerging at seemingly random spots. Available for only brief stints in each area, it vanishes the same way it appears, silently.

It's this mysterious habit which has inspired fans to create websites dedicated solely to reporting where the McRib has been seen. Expect to see entries listing the 86th and 4th McDonalds because it's being sold there now!