Burger King Is Eating McDonald's Lunch. Here's What the Golden Arches Need to Do Now.

Key Points McDonald's stock has fallen approximately 22% this year. McDonald's and Burger King are implementing turnaround strategies as consumers tighten their wallets and demand greater value. 10 stocks we like better than McDonald's › The crown of fast food currently lies with Restaurant Brands International 's (NYSE: QSR) Burger King. McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) is trying to avoid becoming the jester. In the second quarter of 2026, Burger King's same-store sales in the U.S. rose 8.5%, soundly defeating its peers as McDonald's grew just 0.8% in the same category. Burger King, much like McDonald's, is executing a turnaround strategy. From remodeling existing stores to pushing its best-selling sandwich, the Whopper, Burger King's efforts are paying off.