‘m writing this half out of spite and half because I unapologetically love fast food. I was on Instagram and saw someone complaining that she had to wear a mask at her hospital job while people out there are still eating McDonald’s. Her exact words: “If I have to wear a mask to protect your health, I’m going to start slapping McDonald’s out of your hands too.”
Excuse me? Hands off my fries. Fast food is delicious and it has every right to exist alongside your $30 salad. I’m all for moderation, but what that means is different for everyone. I’ll eat Popeyes when I want and I’ll pair it with wine because I’m civilized.
One of my favorite ways to make wine feel more approachable is to pair it with food that’s actually accessible. I’m not trying to drop $150 on Wagyu when I can spend $10 at Taco Bell and still feel like a queen with the right bottle of wine. So here we go—fast food and wine pairings that slap just as hard as that McDouble you’re pretending you don’t love.
McDonald’s + Sparkling Wine
Salty meets bubbly. Sparkling wine is the ultimate fast food companion. It’s high in acid, fizzy, and basically a more glamorous version of McDonald’s Sprite, which we all know tastes like TV static in the best way. That zippy acidity cuts through grease and salt like a champ, making everything from fries to Filet-O-Fish taste like a good decision. Dessert’s questionable, but the ice cream machine probably isn’t working anyway.
Taco Bell + Rosé
Taco Bell has no business being as good as it is. I always go for the cravings box because it gives me a little bit of everything, like a chaotic sampler platter. Rosé is the MVP here because it can keep up with the surprises. Burrito? Rosé. Crunchwrap? Rosé. Nacho fries? Absolutely rosé. It’s the pink drink of champions and deserves a spot next to your Baja Blast.
Popeyes + Grenache
Hot take: Popeyes > Chick-fil-A. The spicy chicken sandwich? Legendary. The fries? Perfection. The sides? Elite. I love Popeyes with Grenache. Yeah, I said it. Red wine and fried chicken. Grenache is spicy, fruity, and soft enough to let all those Cajun seasonings shine. Plus, if it tastes like cherry cola, it just makes sense with fast food. Chill it slightly and thank me later.
KFC + Off-Dry Riesling
KFC is having a renaissance. Their Nashville Hot Tenders deserve awards. When it comes to spice and grease, off-dry Riesling is the hero we need. A little sugar balances the heat, low alcohol keeps it refreshing, and the acidity wipes the grease off your palate like a champ. I also drink this with chicken tikka masala, so it’s versatile. Drink more Riesling. It’s time.
Panda Express + Sauvignon Blanc
Panda Express is full of bold, saucy choices. I always get chow mein with either orange chicken or honey walnut shrimp depending on how chaotic I feel that day. Sauvignon Blanc is my go-to because it’s citrusy, crisp, and handles those sticky, sweet sauces like a pro. I lean toward a Marlborough bottle because I love the fruitiness, but if you want to go more herbaceous, a French Sancerre works too.
Little Caesar’s + Barbera
Why the slander? Little Caesar’s is cheap, tasty, and the crazy bread is dangerously addictive. It gives greasy weeknight comfort in a box. Growing up, we paired it with Dr. Pepper. These days, I skip the soda and reach for Barbera. It’s juicy, acidic, and holds its own with tomato sauce and melted cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, Sangiovese works too, but Barbera brings a little more fruit to the party and this pizza is definitely a party.
Okay, but what else are you supposed to eat at the hospital?
Right? LOL
This is the post I didn’t know I needed!!!