Burger King is looking to take a big bite out of McDonald’s dominant market share, introducing a hamburger that is even bigger than a Big Mac.
The No. 2 fast-food chain's double-decker Big King Burger features two grilled beef patties, with melted cheese, lettuce, onions, pickles and dressing on a sesame bun.
The quarter pound of meat means it outweighs McDonald's signature Big Mac, which contains a puny 3.2 ounces of meat before cooked.
The new take on an American sandwich staple comes as competition in the fast-food space has become fiercer. McDonald's, the world's biggest hamburger chain, just reported U.S. sales at restaurants open at least 13 months fell 3.3 percent in January.
McDonald's blamed the frigid cold and snow that hit large parts of the United States, but analysts said McDonald's domestic patrons continue to be pinched by the slow economy.
In fact, the company is looking to make up for disappointing burger sales by expanding its McCafe breakfast business, which includes blended fruit smoothies and other drinks as well as coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
As for Burger King's assault on the Big Mac? Spokeswoman Lisa McComb was unconcerned: “The Big Mac remains a beloved iconic menu item at McDonald’s.”