No onion, no garlic McAloo Tikki? McDonald's Shravan menu divides the internet

McDonald’s has once again tailored its Indian menu to seasonal food preferences, and its Shravan offerings have caught the attention of social media users. The special menu features vegetarian options, including unsalted fries and burgers prepared without onion and garlic.

A picture of the menu from a McDonald’s outlet was shared on X, with the caption, "First in my bloodline to see McDonald’s selling upvaas ka khaana." The post quickly drew reactions from users, with several amused by the fast-food chain’s take on Shravan-friendly food.

What is on McDonald’s Shravan menu?

The menu features two Shravan Special combo options served with unsalted fries and shakes. It also includes familiar McDonald’s items such as the 7 Veggies Burger, McAloo Tikki NONG Burger and Mexican McAloo Tikki NONG Burger in no-onion, no-garlic versions.

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The offerings are aimed at customers who avoid meat as well as onion and garlic during Shravan. The month is considered significant in the Hindu calendar and is associated with Lord Shiva. Many devotees observe dietary restrictions, fasts and other religious practices during this period.

Netizens debate the desi twist

The menu prompted a mix of jokes, approval and criticism online. One user wrote, "Wake me up when we get a McSabudana Tikki Burger." Another simply described the move as "It's glocalization," while someone else called it "Marketing 101."

A user pointed out that "Regional customisation is nothing new for McDonald's."

However, not everyone was impressed. One comment read, "There is fine line between catering the customer need and loosing the identity of oneself. This is poor and distasteful attempt. (sic)"

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Another user raised concerns about preparation, writing, “The very same kitchen that makes non-veg food makes Upvaas items as well. Same cookware. Same cutlery. Same utensils,”

A separate commenter clarified that the offerings were better described as Shravan food rather than strictly fasting food.

Interestingly, the Shravan menu is not entirely new. McDonald’s India had featured similar seasonal offerings in a 2024 blog post, highlighting its effort to cater to different food preferences across Indian communities.