Chapter 1 The Origins of the Filet-O-Fish

The Filet-O-Fish might not be the flashiest selection on McDonald's menu, yet its backstory is captivating, tracing back to the fast-food chain's formative years. This narrative involves a determined entrepreneur, a religious custom, an ill-fated pineapple-and-cheese experiment, and even a presidential preference.

In 1962, Lou Groen, a McDonald's franchisee in Cincinnati, Ohio, faced a significant challenge. His establishment was situated in a predominantly Roman Catholic area, where many patrons abstained from meat on Fridays. As a result, hamburger sales were plummeting, and he needed a remedy.

Groen observed that a local Big Boy restaurant had introduced a fish sandwich and decided to develop his own variant. He crafted a straightforward recipe featuring a fried breaded halibut fillet, topped with cheese and tartar sauce, all nestled in a steamed bun. He dubbed it the Filet-O-Fish, hoping to attract his Catholic clientele.

However, there was one hurdle: Ray Kroc, McDonald's CEO, who had acquired the company from its original founders in 1961. Kroc was skeptical about adding a fish sandwich to the menu, fearing it would "stink up" the restaurant and detract from his own meatless offering, the Hula Burger, which consisted of a grilled pineapple slice with cheese on a cold bun.

Kroc proposed a competition: they would offer both sandwiches on a Friday and observe which one sold better. The victorious item would remain, while the loser would be eliminated. Groen accepted the challenge and prepared for the contest.

The results were astonishing. The Filet-O-Fish sold 350 sandwiches, whereas the Hula Burger managed a mere six. Kroc conceded defeat and permitted Groen to keep his fish sandwich. The Filet-O-Fish became the first non-hamburger item on the McDonald's menu, making its nationwide debut in 1965.

Over the years, the sandwich has seen some modifications. Halibut was replaced by cod and subsequently pollock due to supply and cost considerations. The cheese slice was halved to reduce expenses. The sandwich gained particular popularity during Lent, when many Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays. Notably, it is also a favorite of President Donald Trump, who is said to order two Filet-O-Fish sandwiches along with two Big Macs and a large chocolate shake.

Though the Filet-O-Fish may not shine as brightly as other menu offerings, it boasts a devoted following and a legacy that spans decades. It exemplifies how a simple idea can evolve into a success story through creativity, determination, and a touch of luck. As Paul Groen, Lou's son, remarked, "My dad told me, 'If I'm gonna survive, I've got to come up with a fish sandwich.'" And he certainly did.

This video explores the intriguing Catholic roots of McDonald's Filet-O-Fish, shedding light on its unexpected origins.

Chapter 2 The Cultural Impact of the Filet-O-Fish

The Filet-O-Fish has not only become a staple of McDonald's menu but has also influenced broader fast-food culture. Its unique origin story and adaptation over the years reflect changing consumer preferences and societal trends.

In this video, a food enthusiast embarks on a culinary journey, tasting various fast-food fish sandwiches during Lent, highlighting the Filet-O-Fish's significance.

Relevant articles:

• The secret history of McDonald's Filet-O-Fish, which was almost removed from the menu before becoming one of the chain's staple sandwiches, Business Insider, January 19, 2018
• The Fishy History of the McDonald's Filet-O-Fish Sandwich, Smithsonian Magazine, March 1, 2013
• McDonald's Filet-O-Fish Journey, McDonald's Corporation, February 26, 2020
• Filet-O-Fish — Wikipedia, Wikipedia, accessed on January 28, 2023.

Originally published on July 28, 2023.

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