McDonald's — Restaurant in Virginia

The "upgrade" was actually a downgrade!

The most flagrant issue to me is that they completely removed the self-service soda fountains. The beleaguered worker behind the counter who I asked about it said something about "health codes" - which we all know is silly since the new/renovated Sterling location had no issues putting in new soda fountains.

Also I'm not sure what they were thinking when they decided on the redesign for the front counter. The left end, which used to be bright and open with the wood-veneer "coffee bar" style stuff, has all been replaced by a solid black wall. The front counter now consists of just one register and a tiny pickup counter, and the experience felt cramped all around. I suppose people will get used to it, but in my honest opinion I think it will tend to be a turn-off for people.

Other than this, my recent recent visit had several issues - my simple, 2-sandwich order which I placed in advance via the mobile app, took maybe 10 minutes to appear, maybe 8 or 9 minutes longer than prior visits. I get that some of this might be the staff readjusting to the renovation. But then, the customizations I'd ordered (no mayo on my McChicken, and no cheese on my McDouble) were completely ignored. I didn't return them as I was in a hurry (and don't like to waste food that isn't actually bad).

Finally, when I went to get a soda refill prior to leaving, the manager behind the counter was quick to take my cup and go behind the scenes to the soda fountains, but I assume he got sidetracked with other stuff because it may have been 2 minutes before he was back with my cup. This might seem trivial but if they would let us refill our own sodas (grumble), I would have been done and out of there within 30 seconds, max. Honestly for a fast food restaurant, this sort of thing is unacceptable. I tolerate it at the "chicken place" (you know the one I mean), but only grudgingly, and only since their service and food are top notch which makes up for the lack of self-serve soda capabilities. But this is a McDonald's, where it should be considered a...

In error while using my app I ordered at the wrong location. I looked up the McDonald’s order policy on how long my order would be available and it indicated 2hrs. So I made my way to pick up my food (an hour + after ordering) and when I arrived I was told my order was discarded. I was hoping their 2hr policy was still in effect and that I would just reheat the pancakes at home. I also didn’t want to be wasteful w/food. But I also understood why they discarded my order. Cold food is not how they serve their customers. While talking with the manager about my error, he was so professional (as was everyone else I interacted with) and so accommodating to me for my own error. He offered to refund me and even replace my meal. Clearly it was my error, and I was most appreciative in that their concern during hr busy morning was to take care of me as their customer when they did not have to. I frequent this location and have always found it to be clean, professional and friendly. Food is always as expected. But I wanted to take a moment to point out the above and beyond professionalism I encountered. Many employees do not get the recognition (especially in the fast food industry) when they deserve to and I wanted to put out there my positive experience;) Highly recommend...

The food is typical McDonald's food, and I must admit the service was fast. However English does not appear to be the primary language. I made a standard Single person purchase of about $7...and i swear the cashier treated me like i gave it to her in pennies when i handed her my debit card. She spent longer asking me if i had cash then it would have been to just run the card and move me on. So i get through that feeling like i had been an awful person..i get to the next window and I get my food, and then i commit another grave injustice, I asked for Ketchup. I know it's hard to reach that arm forward, and pick up those really heavy ketchup packets, and the look i got from the lady at the window reminded me of that. I do realize there is a charge to use cards, and if it's that unbearable to charge $7 then post a sign like they do in most gas stations showing a min purchase required. Also..what happened to the good ole days where before they handed you the bag they asked "Want any ketchup or sauces with that?" then put them in the bag...Anyway...i won't be going back, don't need that from people I'm (was) choosing to give my...