'I tried McDonald’s viral Grimace Shake only back while stock lasts - It ended up on my face'

McDonald's Grimace Shake returned to restaurants today (December 11) following it's viral sensation at the end of the summer. Although winter is truly upon us I headed down to my local McDonald's to grab one before it's limited return ended.

Joining McDonald's Festive menu it's only on offer for a fortnight or until supplies run out and judging from it's TikTok presence I can't imagine it will last long. The shake is based on the McDonald's mascot of the same name who was introduced in 1971, known then as Evil Grimace, who would steal milkshakes from customers before the character's friendlier rebrand.

It originally launched in the US in 2023 to celebrate the Grimace's 52nd birthday with many taking to the 'Scary Grimace' trend of something happening to them after drinking the milkshake, usually leaving behind a messy scene with the shake thrown everywhere. Is it actually any good though? Sure.

READ MORE: 'I moved to South East London 5 months ago and I'm convinced it's the best place to live'

READ MORE: Met names teenage girl charged with homeless Camden man's 'murder'

The shake is advertised as being berry-flavoured and it gives an almost blueberry tang to the usual vanilla milkshake base. I got a large and it does get quite sickly after a while so having it with a full meal it would become heavy quite quickly.

It's the fifth option of milkshake, alongside the staples of vanilla, strawberry, banana and chocolate, and if choosing a milkshake, the Grimace Shake wouldn't be my first choice. The milkshake was thick and initially trying to suck it up through a straw was an effort and seeing all the videos of them on social media I was surprised to see it wasn't bright purple.

But, the most important thing is does it honour the legendary character? Yes, it tastes how you'd image Grimace to taste, in a weird way. It's slightly artificial and it makes you think of the giant purple blob character when you drink it. The same way certain sweets don't have a flavour, they're just purple flavour.

How the milkshake ended up all over Marc's face

So why did I rub it on my face. Well, hoping to hop on the summer trend I thought it would be funny to have a picture of it with the milkshake in my tash, unfortunately the effect didn't really work and I ended up sat in my car rubbing it on my face as it melted into my lap.

McDonald's UK is celebrating it's 50th anniversary this year so it is definitely worth a try. It's available in both medium and large sizes, with prices starting at £2.69 and £2.99 respectively, although prices vary by location - I paid £3.39 for a large.

Stay up to date about London's hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!