Fast food in Lithuania

Well, fast food is not really all that popular in Lithuania yet. I guess that is why lithuanians still are the skinniest people in Europe, although that is likely to change in the years to come. Thanks in part, I am sure, to the two competing fast food chains offering real western food in Lithuania: The well-known McDonald’s and the somewhat less known Hesburger.




 The iconic Big Mac - a symbol of successful life?

McDonalds, as we know are pretty much similar all over the world, and probably for good reason. Repetativeness and familiar surroundings represent a feeling of security, and that is just the thing that many western travelers need when visiting dangerous Lithuania.



McDonalds in Kaunas

But the tourists are not alone at McDonalds. For some reason, a growing number of lithuanians also do seem to love this place. Those with money, that is. Even though there is better food available in ordinary restaurants, and certainly more affordable fast food to be found, they still flock to McDonalds. The only imaginable reason I can think of is that it has something to do with the brand itself and the fact that it is american. Parallels can be drawn to the fact that many lithuanians also buy poor quality western booze, despite there being top quality Lithuanian vodka on sale for half the price. It`s probably some kind of image thing.



Hesburger in Kaunas

 

However, if you are not insecure with regards to your image, you should head on over to Hesburger. For example to the Hesburger place on Laisves avenue, where you will get a demonstration of fast food efficiency that will overshadow most things you have seen at McDonalds. The sturdy lady at the counter (provided she`s still there of course) will show how a serious woman raised under soviet rule can serve you a burger with military precision. Sadly, she does not speak English, and has no patience for your puny attempts to order in lithuanian, but all you have to do is approach the counter and shout: “ENGLISH MENUE!", point quickly at the burger you want – and you will have it in your hand before your blood pressure reaches normal again. Call me old fashioned, but I prefer this over long lines and fake smiles.




Two cheese burger meals for under 4 Euros at Hesburger

As for lithuanians being the skinniest people in Europe - just give it some time. It seems to me that children in Lithuania become chubbier every year, so I guess western fast food will fatten even this country in the end. But it might be worth remembering that back when lithuanians were the skinniest people in Europe, everyone was still stuffing themselves with meat, potaotes and deep fried čeburėkai. Has anyone guessed the secret ingredient of the fast food industry yet?

For more Pictures of fast food in Lithuania: http://lithuaniainpictures.blogspot.no/2015/07/fast-food-in-lithuania.html