It's no secret we all love to feel like we have the inside scoop. It's our very nature to want to be a part of something — and perhaps that's why secret menu items, like one national coffee chain's now famous "Pink Drink," are such a draw. Even knowing about its existence made a person feel like an insider.
Now, "secret menu" items are popping up everywhere, from cozy cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants. You too can reap the benefits of off-menu options — without a complete rewrite. In a season always dripping with peppermint mochas, a simple secret touch can turn a Coda® Coffee run into a truly memorable experience — just like opening a surprise on Christmas morning.
Twisted Traditional
The best "secret menu" items happen organically, using what you've already got in the kitchen. A barista might wonder, "Hey, what if I added pistachio instead of caramel?" Soon, a regular walks in, and she asks them to try it. A new secret is born. Even better? You don't have to make room for a bunch of ingredients that are only in season for 2 months. Here are some twists on traditional seasonal flavors that will snap your guests out of the holiday humbug and keep them coming back for their exclusive combo.
- [Chocolate + orange] add a dash of cardamom for cozy comfort
- [Peppermint + chocolate] add a dash of cayenne for a swicy surprise
- [White Chocolate + raspberry] sub lavender for an unexpected floral nod
Trending on Top
To stand out even more with secret menu items, pull inspo from trending global flavors in place of more classic ingredients:
- Hojicha instead of matcha
- Ube instead of sugar cookie
- Yuzu instead of orange
- Tahini instead of peanut butter
- Miso instead of brown butter
Unlock Opportunities
A solid secret menu can only do its job if guests know how to discover the hidden gems. Get creative in showing guests how to unlock the possibilities that await!
- Encourage more mailing list sign-ups when you advertise your secret menu item passwords and hints within your weekly email blasts. Not only will you get more traffic because of your secret menu buzz, but you will gain a whole new clientele in front of your marketing materials.
- Create some holiday fun by choosing a Christmas carol of the week that you post on social media and even have listed on specials boards. If a guest can sing any line from the song, they are eligible for a secret holiday surprise.
- Offer a "12 Days of the Holidays" advent calendar, where you can post the daily reveal to your social media stories. Maybe it's 20% off an entrée, maybe it's the "chef's secret app of the day" — like a Contigo® Meatball Trio, a fusion riff on a famous Italian chef’s secret app, where Roma® Beef & Pork Gourmet Meatballs are positioned within 3 unique Latin-inspired sauces and garnishes.
- Post a holiday-related trivia question. If a guest answers correctly, present them with a selection of drink and dessert pairings to choose from.
- Have each staff member create their own off-menu signature (cocktail, dessert, latte). A guest can ask to speak to the host and then tell them something great about their favorite bartender, barista, server, or chef. The compliment unlocks that person's signature item.