McDonald’s ‘finally’ launches cult-menu item in Australia

The fast-food giant has revealed a highly requested menu item from the US is launching after it went viral, sparking Aussie demand.

McDonald’s has finally confirmed it is bringing a “world famous” menu item to Australia – after months of speculation online.

The fast-food giant is giving Aussie fans of the Golden Arches the chance to taste the viral Grimace Shake, after the striking purple drink caused a stir on social media.

The lilac shake, a tribute to the iconic fictional character that featured in the original McDonald’s adverts alongside Ronald McDonald back in the 1960s, was launched alongside a Grimace Meal in the US back in July 2023.

After spotting the special beverage on social media, many Aussies declared they were keen to try the berry-flavoured concoction.

Then, a few months ago, several Aussie food bloggers claimed the Grimace Shake would finally be sold in restaurants across the country at the end of the year, though Macca’s remained tight-lipped on the claims.

Macca's is ‘finally’ launching the Grimace Meal and Shake in Australia. Picture: Supplied

Now McDonald’s has good news for those keen to slurp on the colourful drink, with the burger giant telling news.com.au that the “rumours are true” – revealing the shake will be served up Down Under from Friday, October 4 for a limited time.

“Grimace has been making fuzzy waves around the globe and now it’s our turn to celebrate,”

Amanda Nakad, marketing director for McDonald’s Australia, said.

“We thought there was no better way to channel the energy of our loveable pal than by bringing you the Grimace Shake.

“The Grimace Shake is fun, vibrant and bursting with flavour. It’s a tribute to Grimace and the joy he’s brought to Macca’s fans over the years.

“So buckle up – we’re finally giving Aussies what they’ve been waiting for and we know they’re going to LOVE it.”

The berry-flavoured thickshake was launched in the US in July 2023. Picture: TikTok/@gracemarywilliams

Social media was flooded with people, including Courtney Cox, trying the purple drink. Picture: TikTok/Courtney Cox

When the shake launched overseas, it received a huge amount of attention online – even Friends actress Courtney Cox shared a video of herself taste-testing the purple drink.

Described as “an explosion of flavour”, the Grimace Shake is a purple, berry-flavoured thick shake topped with a whirl of whipped cream.

The Grimace Shake is available on its own or as part of the Grimace Meal. Diners who purchase the meal can choose either a Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, along with a serving of fries and, of course, the Grimace Shake in either medium or large size.

It hits restaurants on October 4. Picture: Supplied

Melbourne food blogger @nectoriouspapi shared a video earlier this month about the Grimace Shake landing in Australia, with many declaring they were “pumped” to try it.

“Yes, finally,” remarked one.

“Definitely trying,” said someone else.

While one simply expressed their shock at the announcement by writing: “GASPS.”

The Grimace Shake and Grimace Meal are available in Macca’s restaurants nationwide, via drive-through, kiosk and front counter, as well as the MyMacca’s app and McDelivery for a limited time only.

“Once they’re gone, they’re gone for good, and you’ll be left wishing you had grabbed just one more sip and slurrrrrp of that purple goodness. So, what are you waiting for? Get in on the purple action before it’s too late,” Macca’s warned.