While enjoying my lunch in an outdoor university canteen–replete with shady trees, chirping birds and a cool breeze–my lunch companion declared that some of the concerns of today’s jaded world can be traced to the McDonaldization of society.
I thought that was a little too big to go down with my entree. So after taking a swig from my saccharine-pumped juice, I nodded sagely and pointed at her drink.
“You’re right. And what’s left is undoubtedly caused by Pepsi and Coke.”
She looked slightly offended. ”Hey, I love my Coke.”
“Well, I can’t say I love McDonald’s but I don’t go around calling it evil.” I hid my smile. I was beginning to enjoy this.
“Oh come on! Surely you’ve tasted what they now pass for Twister Fries? It’s something I’d reserve only for my worst enemies.”
“Well, it’s true. They do have great quarter pounders, though.”
“C–, you don’t eat red meat.”
I laughed. ”Usually. But I can’t resist a quarter pounder if it’s served during magic hour.” I finished the last of my food and grinned at the look on her face.
For a few seconds, she looked torn between wanting to insult the fastfood brand some more and natural curiosity.
“What magic hour?” She finally asked, probably deciding to warm up to her original topic later.
“Ahh, you should try dropping by their stores after midnight. They resupply and cook the first batch of their food at that time. Even the oil is fresh! Believe me, you’ll really taste the difference.”
“Are you crazy? You go to McDonald’s after midnight just for that?!”
My eyes widened as realization dawned. OMG, she was right. How could I not have realized it before?
I smacked my forehead. ”I must be daft!”
“I’m relieved you realized it.” She looked sincerely glad.
“What was I thinking?!”
“Hey, it’s not that bad.” She reached out to touch my hand. Only a fellow foodie like her would understand.
“All this time…” I shook my head, frowning.
“…I could have just stayed at my favorite couch and ordered delivery.”
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(Photos courtesy of McDonald’s Philippines and Ninjaflavor.com)
xtine
