In this fascinating throwback video from 1990, Russians share their first reactions to eating at the very first McDonald’s in the Soviet Union — a historic moment that symbolized Western culture breaking through the Iron Curtain. Some customers were amazed by the taste and friendly service, calling it a glimpse of modern life, while others criticized it as “capitalist fast food nonsense.” A few even protested outside, accusing McDonald’s of corrupting Soviet values. The mix of excitement, confusion, and resistance captures a raw snapshot of a nation standing between two worlds — communism and capitalism — one Big Mac at a time.
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Russians interviewed after eating at the first-ever Soviet Union
McDonald's restaurant (1990) pic.twitter.com/elAsM7Skae— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) November 4, 2025