The Local Flavor McDonald's after midnight

Author: CC Ragan

Looking for some late night munchies? Is it too late to head to The Grille? If you want to mix things up, might we suggest McDonald's? The iconic American fast-food chain on Rt. 7 South is now offering more than just burgers and fries: it also features 24-hour service. But don't expect to find the full array of mouth-watering greasy fare served up during the day. After midnight McDonald's has a special limited menu with a few choice items. So bring a trusty driver - late-night service is drive through only - your wallet and an appetite - after midnight only the larger sizes are available.

The late night menu is somewhat paradoxical. For example, we found a quarter-pounder with cheese, and a double quarter-pounder with cheese, but curiously no regular cheeseburger. Also absent is the traditional hamburger.

But you will surely be satisfied with what you do find. The chicken-nuggets (only available in the larger 10-piece size, although the menu indicates that you can get 6-pieces, don't be fooled!) are delectable. So much so that you might find yourself double fisting the crispy pieces from the sweet-and-sour sauce into your mouth (honey mustard, barbeque and ranch are also available - and remember to specifically ask for ketchup, which is no longer automatically included with fries or nuggets).

The more sophisticated chicken lovers may enjoy the chicken selects or the crispy chicken meal, which involves a premium crispy chicken sandwich.

The extra-large fries, always a good bet, are salted to perfection. We found that they were crunchy enough, and even had a lingering sweetness to them. They are the perfect snack for two, and piping hot until the end.

The standard milkshakes are also available if you're looking for something to quench that thirst (and fit easily into that cup-holder, great for drivers!) and those that want to make it through the night can also enjoy a cup of coffee. The wine list, however, is sadly missing. But may we recommend pairing a chilled 2006 Coca-Cola Classic with any of the entrees?!

The service was rather slow, albeit friendly. There appeared to be only one employee on duty at the time, but she dealt with our requests for extra napkins (you'll need them!) and dipping sauces with a generous smile.

It was just like when we were kids, and our parents would take us out for McDonald's in order to quell our quarrelling. Except that it was 3:30 in the morning and our driver wanted to quiet our raucous sing-along in the backseat. While there are no Happy Meals on this late night menu, there were lots of happy customers!

All in all, the late-night run to McDonald's was a fabulous success. The greasy food and cheap prices were certainly worth the short drive from campus (our bags were empty and stomachs full by the time we pulled into Wright parking-lot). As for the experience…it will be a while before we forget the fury of the double-fisting finger-licking feast.

- Additional reporting by Rachel Durfee,

Fran Filippelli and Molly Jepsen