Research shows that 33% of consumers plan to eat more comfort food this year. And summer is the perfect time to indulge guests with what they crave most to boost sales and test out new dishes.

Comfort food reigned supreme during the pandemic, and the trend is sticking to the industry like syrup on pancakes. Hot dogs on the grill, watermelon, ice cream cones, baked mac & cheese – the power of nostalgia gives operators an easy, cost-effective way to increase foot traffic and check averages. Check out these tips for comfort food ideas to extend the summer season and even test drive LTOs.

Twists on the Classics

Not surprisingly, pizza, tacos, and fried chicken topped the most popular comfort foods, according to recent reports. Crispy Nashville hot chicken with a spicy honey glaze served with cornbread and pickled veggies is an easy addition to summer dinner menus. Throw it on a brioche bun, add some dill pickles, and creamy ranch and serve it with potato salad for lunchtime.

According to Datassential’s 2022 Summer Trends report, peaches are the top-indexing flavor in several categories. Celebrate summer by topping a pizza with grilled peaches, prosciutto, goat cheese, fresh basil, and a balsamic drizzle. Gen Z and millennial diners are still seeking out plant-based options, such as topping their pizza with meat-free pepperoni or sausage. Performance Foodservice’s Green Origin® plant-based line is excellent for pasta, to top pizzas, or create a hearty summer burger.

European Summer

Datassential’s 2022 Food Bytes report cites an increase in European comfort foods. Consider adding sweet pea and potato pierogis to an app menu. Kolaches are also starting to pop up on menus. The Czech pastries made with apricot or prune and a sweet cheese will pique the interest of adventurous diners looking for an international culinary escape. The classic Belgian dish mussels & fries would also make for a unique, but comforting summer meal. Serve them up with a broth of fresh tomatoes, white wine, and spices.

Knock it out of the Park

Consumers are flocking back to the ballpark, and one of the best parts of the fun is indulging in concessions. The comforts of stadium fare always appeal to a wide demographic. Score with sports fans and comfort food lovers alike by adding some stadium-inspired foods to your summer menu like brisket egg rolls, a banh mi hot dog, or steak chicharrones nachos piled high with fixins.

Comfort & Chill

With hot summer days, customers will be craving something to cool them down. It’s the perfect time to test out new dishes and increase check averages by offering some cold but comforting refreshments. Boozy watermelon slushies, classic root beer floats, or fruity gelato will keep guests chill. Or cater to those diners who want something a little more indulgent with a decadent cookie butter milkshake — an ingredient currently popular with more than 60% of consumers.

Summer Sweets

Classic, nostalgic desserts scored big with consumers, according to Datassential’s Summer Trends 2022 report. Think apple crisp, lava cakes, and cheesecake topped with summer fruits like peaches or the fruity, sweet orange/vanilla combo of a creamsicle cheesecake. Peanut butter cups and cookie dough also scored high with consumers, so a handheld cookie dough ice cream sandwich or cookie dough bites are cost-effective, yet high-impact desserts to add to menus.

Stay Fresh And Informed

Sign up for our newsletters for information on food trends, promotions, industry tips, and so much more.

Sign Up Today