Donald Stanford had too much to drink at a birthday celebration for his brother on July 29 last year when he went looking for a burger about 9.25pm at the Melrose Drive McDonald’s.

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He leaned over the counter and swore repeatedly at staff, the court was told.

Solicitor Greg Duncan said Stanford was upset that his cheeseburger had “no bun” and wanted a replacement.

Stanford, 41, walked behind the counter and hurled abuse at staff and the manager.

The manager left to serve on the drive-through at the restaurant but Stanford followed.

When the manager returned to the front counter, Stanford shouldered him in the chest region as they passed each other.

Police were called and spoke to Stanford, who appeared to be drunk.

The matter went no further.

But at 12.30am, as the manager was walking to his car, Stanford was riding past on his bike and yelled more abuse.

He dropped his bike and walked towards the manager, saying “I am going to bash you and there’s nothing you can do about it”.

The manager retreated back inside the store and police were called.

Stanford yesterday pleaded guilty to unlawful assault.

Mr Duncan said although Stanford had no right to walk behind the counter of the store, he was frustrated no one would give him attention.

“All he wanted was another hamburger,” Mr Duncan said.

Magistrate John Murphy fined Stanford $600, with no conviction recorded.

“You’ve been a nuisance on the night,” he told Stanford.

“Watch what you drink is my advice.”