Visit the City of Brotherly Love (and Really Great Food)

How can one city’s cuisine inspire cravings across the entire nation? The food of Philadelphia is a reflection of its diverse population, ranging from hearty Italian-inspired dishes to cool and refreshing water ice. Nearly 50% of consumers say they’d be likely to order a Philly-themed burger—meet demand for regional flavor with a healthy twist by serving a turkey burger topped with grilled green peppers and onions and melted provolone cheese. Also try a fresh take on the traditional Philly sandwich by using turkey as the star protein.

Technomic Burger Consumer Trend Report, 2017

Add Some Southern Charm

Comforting and hearty, Southern foods are favorites in all sorts of directions. One of the most quintessential Southern dishes, chicken and waffles, is resurging—the dish has grown by more than 10% at midscale restaurants from 2013 to 2018. Satisfy patrons’ hankering for crispy, sweet-and-savory goodness with a differentiated dish made with turkey instead of the usual protein.

MenuMonitor, Q4 2013 to Q4 2018

Go Cubano

The cuisine of southern Florida has a strong Cuban influence—beans, rice, plantains, and seasoned fish and pork are the stars. Typically made with pork, the Cuban sandwich is a must-try from this region. It’s quickly picking up traction in other areas, as 34% of consumers would think about ordering this type of sandwich at a restaurant. Try adding a better-for-you twist by using turkey in place of higher-calorie ham.

Technomic Sandwich Consumer Trend Report, 2018

Welcome to N’awlins

Cajun and Creole foods are synonymous with the state of Louisiana (New Orleans in particular), and 48% of consumers are interested in these flavors. There are subtle differences between the French-inspired cuisines, but the staple of both just might be a rich and hearty gumbo. For a standout menu special, try a zesty Cajun-spiced burger—a variety that 35% of consumers say they’d be likely to order.

Technomic Flavor Consumer Trend Report, 2017
Technomic Burger Consumer Trend Report, 2017

It’s a Tex-Mex Masterpiece

Tex-Mex fare features extra shredded cheese, beans, peppers and spices, and it’s no surprise that half of consumers say they find it appealing. This makes it the most popular regional cuisine type in the U.S. Bring patron-pleasing Southwestern dishes to your menu with The Sunnyvale Benedict or Turkey Chorizo Street Tacos, both featuring zesty and spicy flavors. And don’t forget the burger menu—31% of consumers are interested in ordering a Southwest-themed patty.

Technomic Flavor Consumer Trend Report, 2017
Technomic Burger Consumer Trend Report, 2017

California Love

West Coast foods, specifically those hailing from the Golden State, are usually associated with being lighter or healthier, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be indulgent, too. For health-conscious diners, try a Cali-inspired grilled turkey burger on a wheat bun, topped with avocado, sprouts, cucumber, tomato and roasted garlic mayo. For those seeking something a little more decadent, a Turkey Patty Melt might do the trick—this ooey-gooey diner classic is said to have originated in California in the early 1950s.

Technomic Flavor Consumer Trend Report, 2017

TIPS FOR TRAFFIC-DRIVING LTOs

Regional cuisines are great for building limited-time offerings to meet demand and introduce new tastes. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your next set of specials:

• Promote your LTOs on social media
• Keep them simple but memorable
• Have set start and end dates for your promotion to create a sense of urgency
• Test different flavors and bring favorites back from time to time