Fancy fast food in Southampton? McDonald's has been a go-to spot for a quick, tasty, and (usually) reliable burgers, fries, and milkshakes for decades. With more than 1,270 locations across the UK, this burger giant has been a British staple since being introduced 50 years ago.

While Southampton's culinary landscape has evolved over the years, burger joints have always held a special place in the hearts of locals with many remembering the old Wimpy that once stood in London Road.

But one chain that has significantly shaped this scene is McDonald's.

As it celebrates its 50th anniversary in teh UK this week, we've looked back through our archives at the city's different restaurants.

McDonalds matchday ticket winners had milkshakes with Saints players Ken Monkou and Cosimo Sarli in 1998. (Image: Echo) Local diners and cafes began offering these simple yet satisfying sandwiches, often cooked on griddle plates. 

These establishments provided a casual and affordable dining experience, catering to both families and young people.

Best behaved Bartley Junior School pupils at McDonalds in 2002.Best behaved Bartley Junior School pupils at McDonalds in 2002. (Image: Echo)McDonald's, founded in 1940, made its way to Southampton in the late 20th century. 

The iconic golden arches quickly became a familiar sight, offering a standardised and consistent burger experience. 

80 yr old Neville Green who worked at McDonalds in Hedge End in 2006.80 yr old Neville Green who worked at McDonalds in Hedge End in 2006. (Image: Echo) The chain's efficient service, affordable prices, and convenient locations contributed to its widespread popularity.

McDonald's arrival had a profound impact on Southampton's food culture. It introduced a new level of convenience and standardisation to the fast-food industry. 

McDonald's restaurant at Hedge End was open by Sir Geoff Hurst in 2006.McDonald's restaurant at Hedge End was open by Sir Geoff Hurst in 2006. (Image: Echo) The chain's success led to the proliferation of other burger joints and fast-food chains, shaping the way people ate and socialised.

Despite the dominance of McDonald's and other chain burger restaurants, Southampton has also seen the rise of local burger joints. 

Hedge End and Millbrook McDonald's restaurants, celebrating the prestigious accreditation in the national Loo of the Year awards, widely regarded as the Oscars of the public lavatory world. Business manager Tracy Twinning and customer careassistant Val Cherry in 2007.Hedge End and Millbrook McDonald's restaurants, celebrating the prestigious accreditation in the national Loo of the Year awards, widely regarded as the Oscars of the public lavatory world. Business manager Tracy Twinning and customer careassistant Val Cherry in 2007. (Image: Echo)

These establishments often offer unique flavours, homemade ingredients, and a more personalised dining experience. They cater to those seeking a more artisanal and authentic burger.

Notable Local Burger Joints include 7Bone, Burg - and although they have restaurants in other locations, they’re both relatively regional.

McDonald's staff selling food in Saints shirts at the Hedge End store. Zoe Martin and Jayne Smith in 1999.McDonald's staff selling food in Saints shirts at the Hedge End store. Zoe Martin and Jayne Smith in 1999. (Image: Echo) These local joints have carved out their niche in the market, offering a compelling alternative to the big chains.

McDonald's has continued to evolve to meet changing consumer preferences. 

Matt Le Tissier with David Dalley and Ben Savage at McDonalds, Swaythling in 2001.Matt Le Tissier with David Dalley and Ben Savage at McDonalds, Swaythling in 2001. (Image: Echo) In recent years, the chain has introduced healthier options, expanded its menu, and focused on providing a more personalised dining experience. This adaptation has helped McDonald's maintain its relevance in a competitive market.

In conclusion, the history of burger joints in Southampton is intertwined with the growth of McDonald's. While the chain has played a significant role in shaping the local food landscape, local burger joints continue to offer unique and flavorful alternatives. The ongoing competition between these establishments ensures a diverse and vibrant burger scene in Southampton.