Worth it: 4 Trends, 4 Ways to Increase Guest Delight

#1 GLOBAL FLAVORS

Consumers love globally and regionally influenced menu flavors, and there are endless options for infusing these flavors across the menu. One simple way is through exciting sauces, which can deliver authentic flavors without a lot of extra labor.

Another is through carriers, which can set handhelds apart, deliciously. With more carriers being called out more often on menus like French brioche or Italian Ciabatta breads, there’s an opportunity for sweet Hawaiian rolls too, especially with the rise of Hawaiian restaurant concepts. Did you know that in recent years, Technomic named Hawaiian-Inspired Burgers an LTO Trend to Watch?¹ Upgrading your burgers or sandwiches with a regional flavor twist like this island-inspired Mighty Mahi Mango Sandwich can make all the difference to today’s guests who are looking for fusion flavors everywhere they go. Hint: the pineapple creamsicle vinaigrette is perfect on any fish…

#2 BREAKFAST ON THE RUN

Breakfast has been battling its way back since the pandemic, and its rebound is largely due to the booming growth of breakfast handhelds². Suddenly, sandwiches, wraps, burritos, and handhelds of any shape and size are a morning staple for busy consumers, while delivering on a wealth of flavor possibilities and dietary demands. Make your offerings stand out among competitors with a specialty touch like maple or peppered bacon, a house-made sauce, or the signature sweet taste of King’s Hawaiian. Need an easy classic that works for everyone? Pick your protein and make these Irresistible Breakfast Sandwiches using a King’s Hawaiian carrier to bring breakfast back with a capital B in your operation.

#3 INDULGENT OFFERINGS

Inflation-weary consumers are seeking increased value from their dining experiences,³ beyond what they can get from cooking food at home. This can feel daunting to operators who are equally challenged by rising food prices, but these two easy tips can help add a luxe touch. One, be sure to call out any specialty ingredients you use on the menu such as farms, purveyors, or other decadent brands. And secondly, upgrade your bread.

Many operators are leveling up carriers to add a contemporary twist without adding operational complexity.⁴ Plus, carriers make a huge visual impact, showcasing your commitment to quality and the novelty of your menu items, and the added taste experience backs that up. See it in action with our newest, most indulgent Bar Harbor Sunrise Slider, where we add an extra touch to an already indulgent lobster roll.

#4 COMFORTING FAMILIARITY

In case you’re wondering, guests still can’t get enough comfort food. In fact, 82% of consumers indulge in comfort food at least once a week, if not more.⁵ By weaving in recognized flavors and beloved brands throughout your menu, you can deliver the experience guests expect and tap into the positive vibes they crave, all in one irresistible bite. Focus on bringing a familiar flavor or household ingredient to the forefront of a dish and then add your own signature twist to deliver newstalgic appeal. Our take on Fried Chicken & Waffles transforms our hamburger buns into crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside bliss.