World Record Big Mac Eater Unimpressed by McDonald's New Big Arch Burger
Donald Gorske, the Wisconsin man who holds the Guinness World Record for consuming nearly 36,000 Big Macs over his lifetime, has delivered a lukewarm verdict on McDonald's heavily promoted new offering, the Big Arch burger. In a recent interview, Gorske, 72, expressed a clear preference for the classic Big Mac, stating that the new burger's features did not meet his expectations.
A Lifetime of Big Mac Devotion
Since May 1972, Gorske has eaten two Big Macs daily, meticulously documenting each one with receipts and containers. His official count reached 35,000 on March 15, 2025, and as of a recent Sunday, he reported consuming 35,746 Big Macs. This dedication has earned him a named booth at his local McDonald's in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where he occasionally dines, though he typically brings the burgers home to refrigerate or freeze them to save on gasoline and ensure access during bad weather.
The Big Arch Taste Test
Gorske's son brought him a Big Arch to try on March 8, but the experience left him underwhelmed. He criticized the white cheddar cheese and tangy sauce, finding them less preferable than the Big Mac's fixings. Additionally, he noted that the Big Arch's two quarter-pound beef patties provided more meat than he needed at his age, comparing it to "eating a steak." Gorske remarked, "I wasn't really crazy about it. I'm sure it's great for people that are younger, but for me... I just think the Big Mac is better."
Context of the Big Arch Launch
McDonald's has marketed the Big Arch as its "biggest and boldest ever burger," but its rollout faced scrutiny after a viral video in February showed CEO Chris Kempczinski conducting an awkward taste test. In the clip, Kempczinski called the burger a "product" and took a humorously small bite, leading to online mockery from social media users and comedians who suggested he did not enjoy it. Gorske, who famously avoids cellphones and the internet, was unaware of this context but understood the curiosity about his opinion when it was explained to him.
Health and Lifestyle Insights
Despite expert warnings about the health risks of regular fast food consumption, Gorske maintains normal cholesterol, blood glucose, and body weight levels. His wife supports his Big Mac habit because he has kept a promise to never complain about her not cooking. Gorske's only deviation from his routine was trying a Burger King Whopper once, which he did not repeat, mirroring his stance on the Big Arch: "I tried one – that was it. And that is the way it will stay."
Gorske's story highlights not just a personal obsession but a cultural touchstone in the fast-food industry, where new products often face scrutiny from loyal customers. His verdict on the Big Arch adds a unique perspective to the ongoing conversation about McDonald's innovations and consumer preferences.
