The 1980s were a decade filled with iconic fast-food sandwiches that left a lasting impression on pop culture. From towering burgers to overstuffed subs, these sandwiches were beloved by many but have since disappeared from menus across the country. In this blog post, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about 10 fast-food sandwiches from the 80s that have vanished, leaving only fond memories behind.
1. McDonald’s McDLT
One of McDonald’s most memorable offerings from the 1980s was the McDLT. This burger featured a unique packaging design that kept the hot ingredients separate from the cold ones until it was assembled by the customer. With its fresh lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on one side and a hot beef patty on the other, the McDLT was a favorite among fast-food aficionados. However, concerns about its environmental impact led to its discontinuation in the early 1990s.
2. Wendy’s Big Classic
Wendy’s Big Classic was introduced in the late 1980s as a competitor to McDonald’s Big Mac. This hefty burger featured two beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and special sauce on a sesame seed bun. Despite its popularity, the Big Classic was eventually discontinued, making way for other menu items.
3. Burger King’s Yumbo
Burger King’s Yumbo sandwich was a hot ham and cheese sandwich served on a hoagie bun. Introduced in the 1970s, it gained popularity in the 1980s as a satisfying alternative to burgers. However, changing consumer preferences led to its discontinuation in the early 2000s.
4. Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar
Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar sandwich was a staple of their menu in the 1980s. It featured thinly sliced roast beef topped with cheddar cheese sauce and served on a sesame seed bun. Despite its popularity, the Beef ‘n Cheddar underwent several recipe changes over the years and is no longer available in its original form.
5. Hardee’s Frisco Burger
Hardee’s Frisco Burger was a unique offering that combined the flavors of a classic burger with the indulgence of a breakfast sandwich. It featured a charbroiled beef patty topped with Swiss cheese, bacon, tomato, and mayonnaise on grilled sourdough bread. While it was a hit with customers in the 1980s, it has since disappeared from Hardee’s menus.
6. Taco Bell’s Bell Beefer
Taco Bell’s Bell Beefer was a taco-inspired sandwich introduced in the 1970s and popularized in the 1980s. It featured seasoned ground beef, lettuce, and cheese sauce on a soft hamburger bun. Despite its cult following, the Bell Beefer was discontinued in the 1990s as Taco Bell shifted its focus to other menu items.
7. Subway’s Seafood Sensation
Subway’s Seafood Sensation sandwich was a seasonal offering in the 1980s that featured a blend of crab and seafood-flavored dressing on a sub roll. Despite its popularity during Lenten seasons, it was eventually phased out and replaced with other seafood options.
8. Domino’s Breadsticks Sandwich
Domino’s Breadsticks Sandwich was a creative take on the traditional sandwich in the 1980s. It featured pepperoni, cheese, and marinara sauce sandwiched between two breadsticks. While it was a novel concept, it failed to gain traction with customers and was discontinued.
9. Jack in the Box’s Frings
Jack in the Box’s Frings were a combination of fries and onion rings introduced in the 1970s and popularized in the 1980s. This side dish featured a mix of crispy fries and crunchy onion rings, offering the best of both worlds. Despite its popularity, Frings were eventually phased out as Jack in the Box streamlined its menu.
10. KFC’s Chicken Littles
KFC’s Chicken Littles were bite-sized chicken sandwiches served on a soft roll. Introduced in the 1980s as a budget-friendly option, Chicken Littles featured a crispy chicken tender topped with mayonnaise and pickles. Despite their popularity, they were eventually discontinued as KFC revamped its menu offerings.
While these fast-food sandwiches from the 1980s may no longer be available, they live on in the memories of those who enjoyed them during their heyday. Whether it’s the McDLT’s innovative packaging or the Frisco Burger’s unique flavor combination, these vanished sandwiches hold a special place in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts everywhere.
