McDonald's — Restaurant in London

We recently visited the McDonald’s on Whalebone Lane North, Romford RM6 5QT after its refurbishment. The updated interior is clean and modern, featuring the latest McDonald’s technology, such as self-service kiosks and large flat screens displaying adverts for their newest menu items. However, one noticeable change is the removal of the long shared table with tablets that used to keep children entertained—a loss for families with kids.

While the food meets McDonald’s usual standards, the removal of self-service stations for items like ketchup, sugar, and milk is inconvenient. Customers now have to request these at the counter, which can lead to delays and frustrations.

The service, unfortunately, is inconsistent. On one visit, a friendly staff member went above and beyond by handing out Halloween coloring materials to children and engaging in warm conversation, creating a welcoming atmosphere. On our visit today however, we had a disappointing experience with a staff member who made a simple request for an extra ketchup packet unnecessarily unpleasant. Her abrupt tone and loud response seemed designed to embarrass rather than assist.

Additionally, we observed several customers experiencing issues, including incorrect orders and delays, particularly for drive-through and in-store pickup. The team on duty seemed overwhelmed with managing delivery service orders, which clearly took priority over in-store customers. Even during quieter times, customers can face long waits for their food as staff focus on Deliveroo and Just Eat orders.

Another concern is the lack of visible floor staff. Customers needing assistance often have to go to the counter and call out for attention, which detracts from the overall experience.

In summary, while the revamped store has its highlights, including its modern features, the focus on delivery services at the expense of in-store customers, inconsistent service quality, and reduced amenities like kids’ entertainment and self-service options are areas that need improvement. McDonald’s should address these issues to ensure a better experience for...

I placed an Order at 15:19 through Uber Eats Order No (64EBB) on 05-01-2020. As soon as the food arrived, it was stale, chips and burger was freezing cold! Food was inedible at all. I called McDonalds Marks Gate Branch and spoke with Branch Manager Elarna Thomas at 15:43, explained the reason for the call and I did not receive any apology in return. I asked about the complaint process and I was informed to log a complaint on the official web page Nothing could have been done at the time, I was informed. Furthermore, I placed another order for the same food items there and then while Branch Manager was on the  phone with me. When the second order arrived, there were enough chips at that time, chips were not hot enough. However, chips were  better than the first order. McDonald's Marks Gate has always sent food which is inedible. They have never met food quality standards unfailingly.  There is only 1 incident when I was sent food which was edible, enabling me to achieve that target, I still had to make a phone call to the branch and my request was acknowledged by Duty Manager Morgan. Does not matter if I paid for a Large Meal or regular, there are never enough chips in the bag. I sincerely believe, branches must have met their food costs by doing so. I own a few restaurants and have a very clear understanding why McDonald's Marks Gate Branch continued doing so enabling them meeting their food cost targets by giving less inedible food. Time is money. I had enough having these bad experiences from McDonalds Marks Gate branch and have decided to take it further. I have taken time out from my busy schedule to deal with this matter. I shall be communicating with Barking and Dagenham Council tomorrow to make them aware about the food and hygiene standards that are followed in one of your branches.  Customer Services from your Branch Manager 0/10. Food and Hygiene...

Mcdonalds...need I say more? When you see those golden arches in the distance as your driving home I know the first thought in my mind is "oh god please don't let the kids see it" and it's usually at that exact moment my eldest offspring takes on the vision of a Hawk, leans forward in his car seat and with rising excitement and delight he makes a noise which imitates feeding time in the seal enclosure. By this point I'm already making the turning signal and moving into the drive through lane to join the que of desperate parents who simply want a moments peace from there children. You approach the speaker which is often manned by a pre pubescent teenager who speaks in a way that imitates English but you still can't understand a word they are saying, the volume is either too low or too high and more often then not they will get your order correct. Once you make your way to the payment window you are greeted by McDonald's finest as you tap your card and smile with a simple nod. At this point the children are jumping around like caged tigers in the back seat ready to pounce on there happy meals. The next window is ofcourse where the food is delivered and the smell of fast food enters the car sending the children into a crazed feeding frenzy. As I pull away I then return to the road a more broken man both financially and emotionally than I was when I entered... 5 stars would...