During his October 15, 1984 re-election campaign stop in Northport, Alabama, President Ronald Reagan ordered a Big Mac, large fries, and sweet tea, a moment that became a nostalgic touchstone for his "common-man" political image. The incident occurred after Reagan delivered a speech at the University of Alabama and made an unannounced stop at the local McDonald's, where he sat with two customers, Charles Patterson and Greg Pearson.

The restaurant, which was demolished in 2006, now features a commemorative display with a bronze bust of Reagan and a plaque reading "President Reagan ate here." This event is frequently cited as one of the most memorable presidential fast-food appearances, contrasting with other visits, such as Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan's 1987 trip to Camp Ronald McDonald, where they interacted with children and the mascot.