In a move that surprised and saddened many fans, KFC is taking its signature potato wedges off the menu and replacing the crowd favorite with Secret Recipe Fries. The new fries, which are coated with KFC’s special seasoning, were tested in 2019, but the QSR is just now rolling them out nationwide. Regulars didn’t hesitate to voice their disappointment on social media with comments such as “KFC has ‘new’ fries now and I’m not happy about it … the wedges were the only reason why I went there and those were much healthier too.”
Cracker Barrel, a restaurant brand that appeals to families for its comfort food and homespun atmosphere, is testing beer and wine service in Florida—a first for the chain. According to a statement, Cracker Barrel is exploring new options for guests: “Serving beer and wine is just one of many potential options currently being tested at some of our stores.”
New contenders continue to vie for share in the chicken sandwich wars. The latest chains to enter the fray are quick-service Checkers & Rally’s and casual-dining Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken.
Checkers launched its Mother Cruncher fried chicken sandwich on Monday, describing it as its most “epic creation yet.” The new sandwich features a chicken breast coated with “mega crunch” breading, topped with pickles, iceberg lettuce and a tomato slice. It’s served on a toasted bun and finished off with Checkers & Rally’s new creamy, signature Squawk Sauce.
Lee’s chicken sandwich is running as an LTO, available until June 28. It’s made with a hand-battered, honey dipped breast fillet topped with dill pickles and chipotle ranch dressing and served on a brioche bun. Customers can opt for Lee’s spicy or original flavor option.
On the seasonal side, several chains introduced items to beat the summer heat.
Yogurtland rolled out Orange Blossom White Peach Light Ice Cream. The new flavor features a combination of white peaches and orange blossom.
Krystal added the Peach Sprite Slush to its beverage lineup, a blend of peach syrup, lemon-lime soda and crushed ice, as well as the Banana Pudd’n Shake, made with soft serve ice cream, banana syrup and vanilla wafer cookies.
And TooJays is offering a free lemonade or iced tea through the end of the month to guests who sign up for the chain’s loyalty program by June 20.
To lure salad customers, Coolgreens debuted the Sunshine Bowl, a vegetarian-friendly dish made with riced cauliflower, snap peas, pickled vegetables, grape tomatoes, olives and lemon vinaigrette dressing. Guests have the option to add chicken, salmon, shrimp or tofu.
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