Why Expats in Malaysia LOVE the Ramly Burger! (Better Than McD?)

Malaysia is known for its vibrant food culture, offering a variety of delicious and affordable street food options. One of the most iconic and beloved local fast foods is the Ramly Burger, a unique Malaysian street burger that has gained a cult following among locals, expats, and even travelers from Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Many first-time visitors and expats in Malaysia often wonder, is the Ramly Burger better than McDonald’s? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history, taste, price, and experience of both burgers to see which one truly stands out.

The History of the Ramly Burger

The Ramly Burger was introduced in 1980 by a Malaysian entrepreneur named Ramly Bin Mokni. He and his wife started a business selling burgers with his wife from street food stalls in Kuala Lumpur. His goal was to create high-quality, halal-certified burger patties, ensuring that Malaysians had access to a fast food option that met halal dietary standards.

Unlike McDonald’s, which follows a standardized global recipe, Ramly Burgers are freshly made at street stalls across Malaysia, offering a customizable and flavorful experience.

Over the years, Ramly’s brand expanded to include frozen foods and burger patties that are now used by street vendors across Malaysia, including major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and PJ (Petaling Jaya). Today, the Ramly brand is a milestone in Malaysia’s street food scene.

Ramly Burger vs. McDonald’s: A Detailed Comparison

Now, let’s break down the key differences between a Ramly Burger and a McDonald’s burger in terms of flavor, preparation, freshness, and price.

Taste and Ingredients

McDonald’s Burger

McDonald’s offers a familiar, standardized taste that is consistent worldwide. A classic Big Mac consists of:

• A frozen beef patty, pre-cooked and reheated
• A basic sauce, lettuce, pickles, and onions
• A soft, toasted bun with sesame seeds

While McDonald’s burgers are great for those who enjoy a quick, familiar fast-food chain option, many find that the patties can be dry, and the flavors are less intense compared to fresh-made burgers.

Ramly Burger

A Ramly Burger is freshly made to order at roadside burger stalls. It is unique because of its flavorful seasoning and preparation method. The key components include:

• A seasoned beef or chicken patty, coated in Maggi seasoning for extra flavor
• A thin omelet-style egg wrap, adding a soft texture to the burger
• Generous layers of sauces, including mayonnaise, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sometimes black pepper sauce
• A soft, buttered bun, toasted to perfection, that absorbs the flavors perfectly

The result is a juicier, spicier, and more flavorful burger experience. Many people say the combination of fresh meat, spices, and sauces makes Ramly Burger one of the best burgers in Malaysia.

Freshness and Cooking Method

One of the biggest advantages of the Ramly Burger is that it’s made fresh on the spot. Unlike McDonald’s, where patties are mass-produced and frozen, Ramly Burgers are:

• Grilled and seasoned in front of the customer
• Wrapped in an egg for extra juiciness
• Topped with fresh ingredients like shredded cabbage, lettuce, cheese, and chili sauce

Meanwhile, McDonald’s burgers follow a standardized, fast-food approach. They are pre-cooked, stored frozen, and reheated before serving. While this ensures consistency, it often results in a drier texture and less intense flavor compared to Ramly Burgers.

Price and Availability in 2025

One of the most important factors for expats and locals is the price of these burgers. Here’s a breakdown of the latest prices in 2025:

Ramly Burger Prices

• Ramly Beef or Chicken Burger – RM 6.30
• Ramly Special (with egg) – RM 7.10

McDonald’s Prices

• Big Mac – RM 13.40
• Double Cheeseburger – RM 11.90
• McChicken – RM 9.40

For almost half the price, a Ramly Burger delivers a larger portion, better taste, and fresher ingredients. Expats in Malaysia looking for an affordable and delicious meal often find that Ramly Burger offers much better value for money.

Speed and Convenience

Many people assume that McDonald’s is faster than street food, but this isn’t always true.

• McDonald’s can take 10-15 minutes to prepare a burger, especially during peak hours.
• Ramly Burgers, despite being freshly made, are usually served within 5-7 minutes.

This means Ramly Burgers are just as quick—if not quicker—than McDonald’s, while also offering better quality ingredients and a more authentic street food experience.

Why Do Malaysians Love Ramly Burgers?

Ramly Burgers aren’t just about taste—they are a part of Malaysian culture. Here’s why they are so popular:

1. They support local businesses – Instead of buying from a global fast-food chain, customers are supporting local street vendors.
2. They offer customization – Unlike McDonald’s, Ramly Burgers can be customized with extra sauces, different meats, and added toppings.
3. They have a unique taste – The Maggi seasoning, egg wrap, and combination of sauces make Ramly Burgers completely different from any other fast food.
4. They’re late-night favorites – Ramly Burger stalls are open late, making them the go-to meal for midnight cravings.

For expats in Malaysia, trying a Ramly Burger for the first time is a must-do experience, as it provides a true taste of Malaysian fast food culture.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

When it comes to choosing between Ramly Burger and McDonald’s, the clear winner is Ramly Burger.

• Better flavor
• More affordable
• Freshly made, not frozen
• Supports local businesses
• Faster than expected

McDonald’s is still a good option for those who prefer a familiar taste, but if you’re an expat looking for an authentic and affordable fast-food experience, Ramly Burger is the way to go.

Conclusion: Why Expats in Malaysia LOVE the Ramly Burger!

Absolutely. If you’re living in or visiting Malaysia, trying a Ramly Burger in Kuala Lumpur should be on your food bucket list. With its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and unbeatable price, it’s no wonder why locals and expats alike love it.

So, the next time you see a Ramly Burger stall, don’t hesitate—order one and experience the best burger we have ever tried in Malaysia.