As the temperatures rise outside, this season is bringing the heat to many restaurant menus with some spicy new additions. With more than three-quarters of diners enjoying spicy foods, operators can help attract and serve this segment by getting creative with their summer menu.
Here are some of the QSRs adding some spice to this season’s lineup:
Wendy’s recently introduced a limited-time Takis Fuego™ Meal, which features the Takis Fuego Chicken Sandwich and Takis-inspired Fuego™ Fries. The sandwich combines the Spicy Chicken filet with a chili lime sauce, a creamy corn spread, and is topped with crushed Takis Fuego chips, while the fries are tossed in a tangy chili lime seasoning. Available in American and Canadian locations, items are also available à la carte for a limited time only.
McDonald’s is also getting spicy, recently launching a brand-new addition to the menu: the Spicy McMuffin. The sandwich comes in three versions: the Egg McMuffin, Sausage McMuffin, and Sausage McMuffin with Egg, all with a shot of McDonald’s signature Spicy Pepper Sauce. These menu items are available at participating restaurants nationwide.
While not including a new spicy chicken sandwich in their recent summer menu launch, Chick-fil-A released two new spicy sandwiches last month, testing the Jalapeño Ranch Club Chicken Sandwich and Creamy BBQ Chicken Sandwich in limited U.S. markets through July.
Pizza Hut’s Lover’s Pizza lineup includes one spicy variety: the Spicy Hawaiian Lover’s Pizza, featuring ham, bacon, pineapple, and jalapeños, and topped with red chili flakes. These pizzas are eight slices, and they are available for $12.99 during the summer.
As part of Dairy Queen’s celebration of the new Superman movie release, they have added a Superman Sauced and Tossed Buffalo Chicken Strip meal. The combo features breaded chicken strips tossed in spicy and tangy Buffalo sauce, served with Texas toast, crispy fries, dipping sauce, and a 21oz. drink.
Swicy and spicy flavours have been trendy on menus for a few years now, but operators are turning up the heat this summer with a new take on spice. Operators looking to stay trendy, get attention, and broaden their customer base, should consider adding some spicy dishes to their summer menu.
