McDonald's - Imperial

Fast food restaurant · Santo Ildefonso ·

McDonald's - Imperial

Fast food restaurant · Santo Ildefonso ·

Art Deco McDonald's with stained glass, chandeliers

Information

Praça da Liberdade 126, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal Get directions

€5–10

@atlasobscura

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10 of the World's Most Beautiful Fast-Food Restaurants

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/most-beautiful-fast-food-restaurants

levik (Atlas Obscura User)

McDonald's

@atlasobscura

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McDonald's Imperial – Porto, Portugal - Gastro Obscura

"Fast food and fine decor don’t always go hand in hand, but at Porto’s former Imperial Cafe, the two come together in what is often called the “most beautiful McDonald’s in the world.” It opened in 1995 in the space previously occupied by the famous Portuguese coffeeshop, which was an icon in the 1930s. The building retained many of the original Art Deco features including the ornate ceilings, chandeliers, and a large stained glass wall, which is currently behind the counter. It is unclear if the staircases are original, but they have been constructed to complement the style of the interiors. Outside is the massive eagle which was the symbol of the old Imperial. People often visit to snap pictures of the unlikely but amazing synthesis. Know Before You Go The public transport system in Porto is good including a modern light rail system (runs underground in city centre, best station Aliados) and a historic tramway as well as numerous tourist buses. The main rail station is a couple of minutes away." - levik, sanprica, Luis Morato, mmmyoso, m mmmyoso, Dr Alan P Newman, europafox, keithlmoore, MikeInSanFrancisco, e europafox

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/mcdonalds-imperial

McDonald's

@davidcho

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McDonald's

Aaron

Google

McDonald’s - Imperial might be a contender for the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world. Located centrally within the city of Porto, as you walk into this McDonald’s, you’d be forgiven for forgetting you’re walking into a McDonald’s in the first place, with the eagle structure above the silver McDonald’s sign, entering a large atrium with chandeliers and impressive décor. I visited in the run-up to Christmas 2024 and they had a Christmas tree decorated McDonald’s-style, which made me giggle. I love McDonald’s in Portugal compared to back home in the UK — it just has nicer vibes: fresher, cleaner and more of a place to be. It even worked out a little cheaper too. Gluten-free options are available, but you need to order at the counter and order from a selected menu, which includes the McRoyale. I ordered a GF McRoyale meal with fries and an iced tea. It did take a couple of minutes longer than my friend’s meal to arrive, but I was happy to wait as it meant they were proceeding with caution and taking my allergy seriously. When the food was served, both the burger and fries were hot and up to a good standard. The burger was really good and made me wish we had gluten-free burger buns back home in the UK. Although the bread was a little small for the size of the patty on the McRoyale (the European equivalent of the Quarter Pounder with Cheese), it just made it feel like a real and normal burger. I couldn’t ask for more from a McDonald’s on this occasion — the staff were friendly, the food was good and well-prepared, and it was all placed in beautiful surroundings in a beautiful city.

Patrizia Iginia P.

Google

A very beautiful McDonald’s and definitely worth a stop. I don’t know if it really deserves the title of “the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world”, but it’s certainly impressive and unique. The interior is elegant, the building is stunning, and the atmosphere is unlike any other McDonald’s I’ve visited. Worth seeing for sure.

A G.

Google

Lovely location, plenty of space to sit, it was packed but people moved quickly. Service was fast. Our McVeggie burger were tasty 😋

Murillo P.

Google

The Imperial McDonald’s in Porto is the most beautiful McDonald’s I’ve ever seen in my life! The building, the stained glass, and the overall design blend together perfectly, creating a truly unique atmosphere. I ordered a drink using the kiosk — the staff were polite and handed me my order in less than two minutes. I would definitely recommend stopping by to take a few pictures and maybe grab some food to go. It’s a McDonald’s experience like no other!

Elsa G.

Google

Food was cooked perfectly and looked like pictures. Service was fast, despite being incredibly busy. Place was clean. Food tastes great-- I mean, it is McDonald's. We were able to find seats for 5 easily at lower level. Place was cool inside even though outside was hot!

Rachael S.

Google

Beautiful interior and the fanciest McDonalds ever! Big chandeliers, stained glass artwork, and modern design. Food was great - we ordered the Big Arch, Fries, and the Chicken Snack Box which comes with 4 BBQ wings, 3 tenders, and 10 nuggets. You can expect the same quality and service as other Mcdonald locations as they strive to maintain a global standard internationally.

Mike J.

Google

I mean what can you say it's McDonald's . However the atmosphere is unlike any other McDonald's you will see in the world. Definitely must check out even if you don't eat fast food. I don't eat McDonald's but I ordered a beer.

Larry S.

Google

Soup!! This Imperial Cafe site converted to McD’s. The interior is fun with chandeliers and stained glass. It served LOTS of people in an efficient manner. Staff was working almost as fast as customers made a mess. Outdoor seating is great. Loved the carrot soup for a light supper.