Balancing Classic Appeal with Global Flair on Your Lunch Menu
September 2024
Although American diners are still craving lunch classics like burgers, pizza and sandwiches, demand for global flavors continues to rise. As many as three-fourths (74%) have ordered a global menu item for lunch, and about half (52%) want to see more globally inspired flavors on lunch menus. This trend presents a fun opportunity to get creative with your lunch menu. Try adding dishes with global flavors or incorporating ingredients or spices from around the world into traditional formats.
Burgers
The classic burger is a top-ordered item for lunch. In addition to the traditional version, offer a unique option like this Kimchi Turkey Burger, featuring a turkey patty grilled and topped with tangy, spicy kimchi, served on a Chinese steamed bun or brioche with sweet chili mayonnaise. Menu items like this will likely appeal to younger consumers who tend to be more adventurous diners. Offering go-to favorites and options with a global twist will help maintain a loyal customer base and keep your menu fresh and attractive for all generations.
Sandwiches
Spice up your sandwich menu offerings with diverse flavor profiles. This Moroccan-Spiced Turkey Salad Sandwich is an exciting alternative to a traditional dish. Tangy and creamy Greek yogurt mixes with turkey breast and the sweet warmth of cumin, honey, apricots and cinnamon. Toasted almonds provide depth, and watercress adds the perfect crunch. Serve on rye for a colorful and flavorful lunch option.
Salads
Make your salads a menu highlight with tempting dishes like this Kung Pao Turkey Salad. Toss bok choy leaves and napa cabbage with julienned carrots, turkey medallions, red pepper and peanuts, and serve with a kung pao dressing of chili-garlic sauce, orange, ginger and peanut. The result is a thrilling experience for tastebuds and a welcome wake-up for your diners.
Or try another intriguing take on salad with this Vietnamese Turkey Bun-Cha With Ginger-Lime Nuoc Cham. It’s part noodle dish, part salad, featuring turkey patties mixed with aromatic
spices and brushed with a brown sugar-lime glaze. Serve over rice noodles, mixed veggies and greens with a delicious ginger lime dressing.
By combining favorite lunch options and dishes with global flavors, you’ll keep your traffic flowing and attract adventurous diners. What kind of global influences would you incorporate into your lunch menu? Share your ideas on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages.
Source:
2024 Lunch Consumer Trend Report, Technomic (2024)
