All right. That’s it. What’s going on with eateries these days? It seems that a number of the chain restaurants in these parts are suddenly doing away with their signature business model and redefining their brands in surprising ways.
Is it because of the recession that these companies are trying to shake things up? I would assume so, but some of these additions are a bit surprising from such established brands.
Arby's new Roastburger
What do I mean? Let me illustrate:
Cold Stone Creamery: This frozen delights superstar has introduced a new product to its lineup for a limited time — Jell-O Pudding Ice Cream, an ice cream that supposedly doesn’t melt.
Pizza Hut: This pizza giant has played for years with innovations to its signature dish (I loved loved loved stuffed-crust pizzas when I was a kid), but a move to signature pasta dishes? I haven’t tried any of their pasta meals yet, and they may be delicious, but come on… the company has “pizza” in its name…
Domino’s is doing the same thing, adding subs and bread bowls to its menu.
A fowl switch-up: Kentucky Fried Chicken (again, it has “fried” in its name) has released its “unfried” grilled chicken offering, while Boston Market, which is known for its rotisserie chicken, unveiled a “crispy country chicken” in February.
Arby’s: Hasn’t this fast-food chain always held itself up as being different from the burger chains? That’s why I was surprised to see a commercial the other day that it is now serving something called a roastburger.
Coffee clash: I’ve talked about this one in previous posts, but companies like McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts are offering more high-end coffee items, while specialty coffee retailer Starbucks is pushing value breakfast meals.
Smaller portions: I don’t know if this is just me, but when I think of Cheesecake Factory, I think of large portions. I mean, come on, several of its dishes made the Xtreme Eating Awards list this year. But now the company is touting smaller portions. T.G.I. Friday’s is doing the same thing.
What’s going on?
Got any other topsy turvy things restaurants are doing that I should add to my list? Want to sound off about changes your favorite chain is making? Post a comment!