As fast food prices continue to rise, many customers are taking to social media to complain, and some are finding affordable options in unexpected places.
In a viral TikTok with more than 1.2 million views, Eason Trbojevic said eating at his local Chili's was cheaper than stopping at McDonald's.
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Trbojevic blamed alleged “price gouging” for leaving fast food, saying the “three for me” deal at Chili's allows customers to choose an appetizer, drink and meal for about $11. He revealed what happened. (According to Chili's website, transaction prices start at his $10.99.)
@easontrbojevic #fyp #boomer #woke #lgbt #taylorswift #lettheatcereal #taylorandtravis #eattherich ♬ Original song – Eason Trbojevic
“You get a drink, a little chip, a cheeseburger and fries,” he tells viewers. “Chili's is cheaper than McDonald's, but there's no one here,” he overlays the text.
Some commenters were “stunned” to find out how low their bill was at Chili's.
“I definitely prefer these chain restaurants,” one person wrote. “I go to Applebee's, but I spend less money than I do at McDonald's.”
“The sit-down price is now the same here as at the drive-thru,” said another customer.
It's unclear which McDonald's Mr. Trbojevic previously went to, but the chain offers a $1.20.3 menu and could theoretically offer lower-priced meals than Chili's. There is.
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McDonald's has come under increased scrutiny recently, with customers criticizing the Golden Arches for being unaffordable.
An estimated 93% of McDonald's 38,000 restaurants are franchised, allowing franchisees to set prices based on location and demand, but the overall price increase has prompted the company's CEO ) Chris Kempczinski promised more “affordability” in the coming months.
“As we head into 2024, there will probably be more focus on what I would call affordability,” Kempczinski said on an earnings call last month after soaring menu prices led to weak sales in the first quarter of 2024. I think it will happen,” he said.
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The chain has increased prices by an estimated 10% by the end of 2023.
Last summer, a McDonald's rest area in Darien, Conn., made headlines after customers revealed higher-than-usual menu prices, including $18.29 for an order of 10 McNuggets and $17.99 for a McCrispie sandwich.
McDonald's did not immediately respond. Entrepreneur's Request for comments.
