The Rise and Rare Appeal of Arby's Meat Mountain Sandwich
By Editor • September 13, 2026 • 2 min read
In 2014, Arby's took its claim of having a wide variety of meats to a new level, igniting customer creativity and leading to the birth of the infamous Meat Mountain sandwich. This towering creation quickly gained a reputation as a secret menu item that meat lovers couldn't resist.
A Culinary Challenge
The Meat Mountain comprises an astounding eight meats stacked high within a star-shaped bun, including chicken tenders, roast turkey, ham, corned beef, brisket, Angus steak, roast beef, and pepper bacon, not to mention slices of Swiss and cheddar cheese. Initially priced around $10 and packing over 1,000 calories, the sandwich presents a formidable challenge for any eater. One Reddit user humorously remarked, "Looks like a great time and a bad decision," encapsulating the excitement and apprehension surrounding this colossal meal.
From Secret Menu to Sought-After Item
While the Meat Mountain never completely vanished from Arby's offerings, its status as a quasi-secret menu item means that its price has significantly increased, now reaching up to $20 depending on the location. Customers must specifically ask for the sandwich or provide detailed instructions to create it. Even so, those who have dared to partake often rave about its flavor, with one fan declaring, "When I tell you that sandwich was amazing, I’m not lying." However, opinions vary, as some diners have noted that the various meats can clash in flavor and texture, leading to mixed reviews.
The Experience and Its Challenges
Constructing the Meat Mountain is no small feat; a former Arby’s employee shared that it takes more than twice as long to prepare compared to a standard sandwich. Wrapped in butcher paper intended for heating tortillas, the sandwich's presentation alone is a spectacle. Some diners have described it as a "sloppy, damp pile of thinly sliced meats," suggesting that it requires a generous application of Arby's sauce to enhance its taste. Regardless of the critiques, the Meat Mountain remains a testament to customer-driven innovation in fast food.
Source: www.tastingtable.com
