Maid-Rite is a beloved American chain known primarily for its unique and flavorful loose meat sandwiches. Since its establishment in 1926, the brand has become synonymous with affordable, hearty, and nostalgic dining experiences that capture the spirit of Midwestern comfort food.
The Maid-Rite menu is simple yet satisfying. It features a range of sandwiches, sides, beverages, and desserts that cater to families, travelers, and anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.
This guide will explore the menu in detail, including prices, to help customers plan their visit or order with confidence.
“Maid-Rite is not just a meal; it’s a tradition wrapped in a warm bun.” – Food Enthusiast Magazine
History of Maid-Rite and Its Signature Dish
The Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich was invented by Fred Angell in Muscatine, Iowa. Unlike a hamburger that uses a patty, the Maid-Rite sandwich consists of seasoned loose ground beef served on a steamed bun.
This innovation set the brand apart and contributed to its lasting popularity.
Over the decades, Maid-Rite grew from a single location to a franchise with outlets across multiple states. Despite this growth, the menu has remained true to its roots, emphasizing simplicity, quality, and affordability.
Overview of the Maid-Rite Menu Categories
The menu is divided into several main categories:
- Loose Meat Sandwiches – The heart of the menu, featuring different variations and sizes.
- Other Sandwiches – Including hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and breakfast options.
- Sides – Classic fries, onion rings, and salads.
- Beverages – Soft drinks, coffee, and shakes.
- Desserts – Ice cream and pies.
Below is a detailed breakdown of each category along with current pricing.
Loose Meat Sandwiches
The signature loose meat sandwiches are Maid-Rite’s flagship offerings. They feature seasoned ground beef, chopped onions, pickles, mustard, and sometimes cheese, all served on a steamed bun.
The loose meat style creates a juicy and flavorful bite every time.
| Item | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Original Maid-Rite | Classic loose meat sandwich with onions, pickles, and mustard. | $4.25 |
| Cheese Maid-Rite | Original sandwich topped with American cheese. | $4.75 |
| Double Maid-Rite | Two servings of loose meat with onions, pickles, and mustard. | $6.50 |
| Double Cheese Maid-Rite | Double loose meat sandwich with two slices of American cheese. | $7.00 |
| Deluxe Maid-Rite | Includes lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise alongside the classic toppings. | $5.25 |
Customization Options
Maid-Rite allows customers to customize their sandwiches extensively. Common additions include ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, cheese, tomato, lettuce, and mayonnaise.
This flexibility ensures each sandwich can be tailored to individual tastes.
Tip: For a lighter option, request no cheese or mayonnaise.
Other Sandwiches
While the loose meat sandwich is the star, Maid-Rite offers several other sandwich options to diversify the menu. These include traditional favorites and breakfast sandwiches available during morning hours.
| Item | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Dog | Classic all-beef hot dog on a steamed bun. | $3.50 |
| Cheese Dog | Hot dog topped with melted American cheese. | $4.00 |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Juicy grilled chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | $5.75 |
| Breakfast Sandwich | Egg, cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage on a bun. | $4.50 |
| Bacon, Egg & Cheese | Classic breakfast sandwich with crispy bacon, egg, and cheese. | $5.00 |
Sides
Maid-Rite’s sides complement the main dishes perfectly. Whether you want a crunchy snack or a lighter salad, the side menu offers good variety.
| Side Item | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Crispy golden fries, lightly salted. | $2.50 |
| Onion Rings | Beer-battered onion rings fried to perfection. | $3.00 |
| Side Salad | Fresh mixed greens with tomato, cucumber, and dressing. | $3.50 |
| Coleslaw | Classic creamy coleslaw made fresh daily. | $2.00 |
| Potato Chips | Individual bag of crunchy potato chips. | $1.50 |
Beverages
A wide selection of beverages is available to quench your thirst. From classic soft drinks to indulgent shakes, Maid-Rite’s drink menu is designed to complement every meal.
| Beverage | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Drinks (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite) | Regular and large sizes available. | $1.75 / $2.25 |
| Fresh Brewed Coffee | Hot, freshly brewed coffee served black or with cream/sugar. | $1.50 |
| Milk | Cold milk, available in small or large. | $1.50 / $2.00 |
| Chocolate Shake | Rich and creamy chocolate shake made with real ice cream. | $3.75 |
| Vanilla Shake | Classic vanilla ice cream shake. | $3.75 |
| Strawberry Shake | Sweet and fruity strawberry shake. | $3.75 |
Desserts
To finish your meal on a sweet note, Maid-Rite offers simple but satisfying dessert options. These treats provide the perfect balance to the savory sandwiches and sides.
| Dessert | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Cream Cone | Vanilla soft-serve ice cream in a crisp cone. | $2.25 |
| Root Beer Float | Classic root beer with vanilla ice cream. | $3.50 |
| Apple Pie | Warm apple pie slice served with or without ice cream. | $3.00 / $4.00 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Freshly baked large cookie. | $1.75 |
Meal Combos and Specials
Maid-Rite also offers combo meals that bundle sandwiches with a side and a drink, providing great value and convenience. Combos typically save customers about 10-15% compared to ordering items separately.
| Combo | Includes | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Original Maid-Rite Combo | Original Maid-Rite sandwich, fries, and a soft drink. | $7.50 |
| Cheese Maid-Rite Combo | Cheese Maid-Rite sandwich, onion rings, and a soft drink. | $8.25 |
| Double Maid-Rite Combo | Double Maid-Rite sandwich, fries, and a soft drink. | $9.50 |
| Breakfast Combo | Breakfast sandwich, hash browns, and coffee. | $6.50 |
Popular Menu Pairings
Many customers enjoy pairing their Maid-Rite sandwiches with fries or onion rings and a classic shake or soft drink. Here are some popular combinations that highlight the best flavors Maid-Rite has to offer:
- Original Maid-Rite + French Fries + Vanilla Shake – A timeless favorite.
- Cheese Maid-Rite + Onion Rings + Root Beer Float – Rich and indulgent.
- Double Maid-Rite + Side Salad + Iced Tea – Hearty but balanced.
- Breakfast Sandwich + Hash Browns + Fresh Brewed Coffee – Perfect morning fuel.
Dietary and Allergen Information
Maid-Rite sandwiches contain beef, wheat (bun), dairy (cheese, mayo), and other common allergens such as soy and eggs. Customers with food allergies should communicate their needs clearly when ordering.
Vegetarian options are limited, but some locations may offer side salads or chips suitable for vegetarians. It is advisable to check locally for vegetarian or gluten-free accommodations.
Conclusion
The Maid-Rite menu offers a nostalgic taste of American comfort food with its iconic loose meat sandwiches and complementary offerings. With affordable prices, customizable options, and a variety of sides and beverages, it caters to diverse tastes and occasions.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a loyal fan, exploring the Maid-Rite menu ensures a satisfying and memorable meal. From the classic Original Maid-Rite to the indulgent dessert shakes, every item is crafted to deliver flavor and value.
Next time you crave a simple, hearty sandwich with a Midwestern twist, Maid-Rite is the perfect destination.
