Even though we are well into spring, some QSRs are still launching new menu items to keep guests engaged and drive traffic. This year’s trends include everything from global inspiration to wellness beverages, but spice is returning this season in full force. Research shows that 95 per cent of restaurants now have at least one spicy item on the menu, so it’s a trend that most restaurants see value in.
Wendy’s is coming in hot with a new seasonal menu featuring the Jalapeño Ranch Cheeseburger, Jalapeño Bacon Breakfast Potatoes, and Jalapeño Breakfast Biscuits. “With spring comes warmer weather and refreshing changes in routines, and we are seeing an appetite for bold flavours that mix comfort and discovery,” said Lindsay Radkoski, Chief Marketing Officer at Wendy’s.
Following the launch of Hidden Valley Ranch Diablo dipping sauce earlier this year, Taco Bell has added the Diablo Dusted Crispy Chicken Nuggets nationwide for a limited time, also announcing the upcoming launch of Doritos Cool Ranch and Flamin’ Hot dusted nuggets, though no date has been officially confirmed.
Subway has released three new spicy sandwiches on the Wanna Be Spicy Menu. The menu features a Mild Piri-Piri Ranch Chicken, Wild Hot Honey Chicken, and Wicked Nashville-Style Deli, all served on the new Ghost Pepper Bread. “We wanted to provide Canadians with a menu that perfectly fits their spice tolerance and preference,” said Chef John Botelho. “Our ‘Mild,’ ‘Wild,’ and ‘Wicked’ approach gives Canadians the chance to choose their own adventure, with sandwich builds that bring the heat and pack maximum flavour and freshness.”
Dairy Queen recently introduced a new DQ® Swicy Menu, including a FlameThrower® Chicken Strip Basket for $9.99, served with cool vanilla soft serve dipping sauce, along with a swicy new beverage lineup including Pineapple Lemonade DQ Sparklers Tajin® and DQ Coolers with Tajin. “This menu is about having fun with flavour,” said Candida Ness, Vice President of Marketing for DQ Canada. “Canadians have been dipping chicken strips into soft serve for years, so we made it official as the ultimate cool‑down to the heat.”
Many QSRs are turning up the heat this season to offer their own version of the trend to attract attention and raise revenues.
