Welcome to an exciting conversation with Katarina Railko, our esteemed hospitality expert with a wealth of experience in the travel and tourism industry, as well as a prominent voice in entertainment and events. With her deep understanding of customer trends and menu innovation, Katarina offers unique insights into the latest fall lineup from a well-known quick-service restaurant chain. In this interview, we dive into the inspiration behind seasonal menu items, the creative process of flavor development, customer feedback, and the strategic thinking behind offering variety and customization. Join us as we explore how these new offerings aim to delight and surprise guests this season.
How did the idea for a fall menu lineup come about, and what was the driving force behind launching it on August 18?
I think the timing of a fall menu launch is all about capturing that seasonal excitement. August 18 marks a sweet spot where summer is winding down, and people are starting to crave new flavors and experiences that feel fresh yet comforting. The inspiration often comes from listening to guests and noticing trends in what they’re drawn to during this transitional time of year. It’s about creating a sense of anticipation—giving them something to look forward to as the seasons shift, whether it’s a bold drink or a hearty sandwich.
What sparked the creation of a first-ever seasonal soda like the Cherry Berry & Sprite, and why introduce it specifically for fall?
Introducing a seasonal soda was a way to tap into the growing demand for fun, bold beverages that stand out. Fall feels like the perfect time because people are looking for refreshing yet unique drinks to pair with cooler weather vibes. The Cherry Berry & Sprite concept came from wanting to elevate a familiar favorite—Sprite—with a playful twist of fruit flavors that evoke the season. It’s about surprising guests with something they didn’t expect but instantly love.
Can you walk us through the thought process behind choosing the cherry, blueberry, and cranberry combination for the Cherry Berry drink lineup?
The combination of cherry, blueberry, and cranberry was carefully crafted to balance sweet and tart in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Cherry brings a rich, familiar sweetness, blueberry adds a subtle depth, and cranberry introduces a bright, tangy note that ties it all together. We wanted flavors that complement each other while also reflecting the vibrant, cozy essence of fall. It’s a blend that feels like a celebration in every sip.
How do the different Cherry Berry drink options—Lemonade, Frosted Lemonade, and Sunjoy—create unique experiences for customers?
Each drink in the Cherry Berry lineup offers a distinct vibe. The Lemonade is all about that classic, crisp refreshment with a fruity kick—perfect for a quick pick-me-up. The Frosted Lemonade takes it to a creamier, more indulgent level with the blend of Icedream, making it feel like a treat. Then there’s the Sunjoy, which mixes sweetened iced tea and lemonade with the Cherry Berry flavors for a layered, Southern-inspired sip. They cater to different moods and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
What feedback did guests provide when Cherry Berry was first introduced last spring, and how did that shape its return this year?
When Cherry Berry debuted last spring, the response was overwhelmingly positive—guests loved the bold, fruity profile and how it paired with our menu. They kept asking for it to come back, and many shared how much they enjoyed experimenting with the different variations. That feedback inspired us to bring it back with a twist, like the addition of Sprite, to keep things fresh and give returning fans something new to rave about while still delivering on what they loved initially.
Shifting to the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich, can you share how guests reacted during its test phase in Raleigh, North Carolina last spring?
During the test in Raleigh last spring, the reaction to the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich was incredibly enthusiastic. Guests were drawn to the unique pretzel bun and the way it paired with the savory cheddar and bacon. Many told us it felt like a step up from the classic chicken sandwich—still familiar, but with an indulgent twist. That kind of excitement and the consistent demand we saw during the test made it clear this sandwich deserved a nationwide rollout.
What do you believe made the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich stand out enough to earn a spot on the national menu?
I think it’s the combination of textures and flavors that really sets the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich apart. The toasted pretzel bun has this perfect buttery crunch, and when you add the sharpness of cheddar, the smokiness of applewood bacon, and that tangy Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce, it’s a flavor explosion. It feels like a premium offering, yet it’s still rooted in what people love about our core menu. That balance of innovation and familiarity resonated deeply with guests.
How does offering the sandwich with a choice of original, spicy, or grilled filets reflect a focus on meeting diverse customer tastes?
Giving guests the option to choose between original, spicy, or grilled filets is all about personalization. We know our customers have varied palates—some crave that classic breaded flavor, others want a kick of heat, and some prefer the lighter grilled option. By offering this flexibility, we’re empowering them to make the sandwich their own. It’s a small but impactful way to show we’re listening to what they want and ensuring everyone feels included.
Let’s talk about the new Waffle Potato Chips. What inspired the waffle cut design and the connection to the iconic Waffle Potato Fries?
The waffle cut for the new potato chips was a natural nod to our beloved Waffle Potato Fries. We wanted to create a snack that feels like an extension of that fan-favorite side—something familiar in shape and texture but in a convenient, grab-and-go form. The waffle cut not only looks distinctive but also holds up well to dipping or just munching on its own. It’s a way to bring a piece of our restaurant experience into a new format for our guests.
Can you describe how the Original Flavor and the Sauce Flavored Waffle Potato Chips differ in terms of taste and appeal?
The Original Flavor Waffle Potato Chips are a classic—lightly sprinkled with sea salt to let the potato shine through with that crisp, satisfying crunch. They’re perfect for anyone who loves simplicity. The Sauce Flavored chips, on the other hand, bring a bold, smoky, and tangy kick inspired by our signature dipping sauce. They’re for guests who want something with a punch of personality. Both cater to different snacking vibes, whether you’re keeping it low-key or craving something adventurous.
Why was the decision made to make these chips a permanent side item and also offer them for on-the-go snacking or catering?
We saw the Waffle Potato Chips as more than just a seasonal gimmick—they had the potential to become a staple. Making them a permanent side item gives guests a consistent alternative to fries, while offering them for on-the-go snacking or catering taps into the demand for convenient, shareable options. Whether someone’s grabbing a quick bite or ordering for a group event, these chips fit seamlessly into different moments of their day. It’s about versatility and meeting our guests where they are.
How does this fall lineup as a whole reflect a commitment to variety and customization for guests?
This fall lineup is really a showcase of how much we value variety and customization. From the Cherry Berry drinks in multiple formats to the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich with filet options and the dual flavors of Waffle Potato Chips, every piece of the menu is designed to give guests choices. We want them to feel like they can mix and match, try something new, or stick with a favorite style. It’s about creating a sense of ownership over their meal and ensuring there’s always something that feels just right for them.
What’s your forecast for how seasonal menus like this will shape the future of quick-service dining?
I believe seasonal menus will continue to play a huge role in quick-service dining, as they keep the experience dynamic and give guests a reason to come back and try something new. They create buzz and build a connection by tying into the rhythm of the year—think fall flavors, holiday treats, or summer refreshers. Moving forward, I expect we’ll see even more creativity with limited-time offerings, focusing on bold flavors, customization, and cross-category innovation like drinks and snacks. It’s all about keeping that sense of discovery alive for customers.
