The Top Fast Food Menu Ideas (2024)

In the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant industry, fast food continues to hold a significant place in the hearts and stomachs of consumers worldwide. This enduring popularity is reflected in the fact that the average person spends $148 per month on fast food, driven in part by affordability compared to dining at sit-down restaurants. 

In addition to cost, these popular establishments, known for their quick service and convenient meals, rely heavily on their menus to attract and retain customers. A well-crafted fast food menu is not just a list of items; it's the cornerstone of the establishment, reflecting its brand identity and enticing patrons with quick, delicious options. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the importance of a fast food menu and provide you with top ideas to include, ensuring your eatery stands out in the competitive food industry.

Why the menu is so important for fast food restaurants

First impression maker

Your menu is often the first point of contact between your customers and your offerings. It sets expectations and can significantly influence ordering decisions. A well-designed, easy-to-read menu with appetizing descriptions and images can entice customers and streamline the ordering process.

Brand identity showcase

The menu is a powerful tool for expressing your fast food restaurant's unique personality and brand. From the design and layout to the naming of dishes, every element should reflect your establishment's character. 

Are you focusing on fresh, healthy options? Your menu should emphasize this. Specializing in indulgent comfort food? Let that shine through in your menu's presentation and content.

Revenue driver

A strategically crafted menu can significantly impact your fast food restaurant's bottom line. By highlighting high-profit items, creating attractive combos, and using psychology-based pricing strategies, you can guide customers toward choices that benefit both their taste buds and your business.

Mackenzie Gibson, VP of culinary and menu innovation at Oklahoma City-based Sonic Drive-In, provides customers with the flavors they crave. She shared, “After I learned about developing products for foodservice, I discovered that understanding your customer is a big part of your success … in the way you build product development skills, create menu items and lead your team. I don’t rely on what’s on a marketing calendar to lead R&D. We let consumers lead new product development.”

When you get your menu right, your fast food restaurant becomes more than just a quick pit stop; it turns into a go-to destination for satisfying meals. 

Tips for menu organization and design

Consider these seven tips to guide your menu organization and design:

1. Use clear categories: Group similar items together for easy navigation (e.g., burgers, chicken, sides, desserts).

2. Highlight specialties: Use boxes, icons, or different colors to draw attention to signature items or limited-time offers.

3. Describe items concisely: Use appetizing language that quickly conveys the key ingredients and flavors.

4. Include high-quality images: Visual representations can significantly influence ordering decisions in fast food settings.

5. Optimize for digital platforms: Ensure your menu is easily readable on digital menu boards and mobile ordering apps.

6. Use easy-to-read fonts: Opt for clear, legible typefaces that can be quickly scanned by customers in a hurry.

7. Include nutritional information: Provide calorie counts and highlight healthier options to cater to health-conscious customers.

Top fast food menu ideas to include

Now that you understand the critical role of the menu, let's explore some top ideas to include in your fast food menu. These suggestions blend classic favorites with modern trends to create a diverse and appealing selection.

Burger bonanza

Burgers remain a staple of fast food menus. Restaurants serving burgers report that the item accounts for approximately 25% of their total foodservice sales. Consider offering:

• Classic cheeseburger: A timeless favorite

• Signature burger: A unique creation that sets your brand apart

• Plant-based burger: Cater to vegetarian and flexitarian customers

• Spicy options: Think jalapeno or sriracha-infused burgers

• Mini burgers or sliders: Perfect for snacking or sampling multiple flavors

Made with 100% all-natural Angus beef, Shake Shack’s burgers are celebrated for their juicy, flavorful patties and gourmet toppings, delivering a premium fast-casual dining experience.

Chicken choices

Chicken is a versatile protein that appeals to many customers:

• Crispy chicken sandwich: A popular alternative to burgers

• Grilled chicken options: For health-conscious customers

• Chicken nuggets or tenders: A classic favorite, especially for kids

• Spicy chicken variations: Tap into the trend for bold flavors

• Chicken wraps: A lighter option that's easy to eat on-the-go

Known for its flavorful, juicy chicken and crunchy breading, Popeyes' crispy chicken sandwich quickly became a fan favorite and a nationwide sensation, boosting the brand’s popularity and sales.

Fries and sides

No fast food menu is complete without a selection of sides:

• Classic french fries: A must-have item

• Sweet potato fries: A trendy alternative

• Onion rings: A crispy favorite

• Mozzarella sticks: A cheesy indulgence

• Side salads: For those seeking a healthier option

Breakfast options

With many fast food chains now serving breakfast, consider these morning favorites:

• Breakfast sandwiches: Egg and cheese on various breads or biscuits

• Breakfast burritos: A handheld option packed with morning flavors

• Pancakes or waffles: For those with a morning sweet tooth

• Yogurt parfaits: A lighter, fresher option

• Coffee and tea: Essential morning beverages

Whataburger's breakfast menu offers a variety of hearty, Southern-style options, including the popular Breakfast on a Bun, taquitos, and honey butter chicken biscuits, catering to both early risers and late-night diners.

Salads and lighter fare

Balance your menu with some healthier options:

• Grilled chicken salad: A classic light meal

• Caesar salad: Offer with or without chicken

• Southwest-style salad: With beans, corn, and zesty dressing

• Fruit cups: A fresh side or snack option

• Veggie wraps: For health-conscious customers seeking plant-based options

Value meals and combos

Offer cost-effective options that bundle items together:

• Classic burger meal: Burger, fries, and drink

• Family bundles: Bulk options for group or family orders

• Mix-and-match deals: Allow customers to customize their combos

• Snack-sized combos: Smaller portions for light eaters or between-meal snacks

• Limited-time promotional combos: Featuring new or seasonal items

Desserts and treats

Sweet options to round out the meal:

• Soft serve ice cream: Classic cones or cups

• Milkshakes: Traditional and unique flavors

• Cookies: Freshly baked options

• Fruit pies: Hand-held dessert pies

• Sundaes: For a more indulgent treat

Ranging from classic soft-serve cones and sundaes to indulgent McFlurries and apple pies, McDonald's desserts provide sweet, satisfying treats that have remained customer favorites for decades.

Beverage selection

Offer a variety of drinks to complement your food menu:

• Soft drinks: Include diet and zero-sugar options

• Iced tea: Sweet and unsweetened varieties

• Lemonades: Classic and flavored options

• Coffee drinks: Hot and iced varieties

• Smoothies or slushies: Fruitier alternatives

Kid-friendly options

Make your fast food restaurant family-friendly with a dedicated kids' menu:

• Junior Burger or Cheeseburger

• Chicken Nuggets

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Small Fries or Apple Slices

• Kid-Sized Drink and Dessert Options

Since 30% of fast food restaurants are offering healthier items on kids’ menus, be sure to include options such as:

• Grilled chicken wraps

• Turkey or veggie sandwiches

• Fruit cups

• Oatmeal

• Low-fat milk or water

Seasonal menu updates

To keep your fast food menu fresh and exciting throughout the year, consider incorporating seasonal specials:

Spring

• Strawberry shake

• Fresh herb grilled chicken sandwich

• Garden salad with spring mix

Summer

• Mango smoothie

• BBQ bacon burger

• Corn on the cob side

Fall

• Pumpkin spice latte

• Turkey and cranberry sandwich

• Sweet potato fries

Winter

• Peppermint Mocha

• Hearty chili

• Cinnamon apple pie

Embracing food trends

While maintaining classic fast food fare is important, don't be afraid to incorporate current food trends to attract a wider audience:

• Plant-based alternatives: Offer vegetarian and vegan versions of popular items

• Global flavors: Introduce limited-time offerings inspired by international cuisines

• Customization options: Allow customers to personalize their orders with various toppings and sauces

• Snackable items: Create a snack menu for between-meal cravings

• Sustainable packaging: Highlight eco-friendly packaging for environmentally conscious customers

The importance of menu testing

Before finalizing your fast food menu, it's crucial to test new items:

• Limited-time offers: Introduce new items as special promotions to gauge customer interest

• Staff tastings: Get feedback from your team on taste, ease of preparation, and potential popularity

• Customer surveys: Use digital platforms to gather feedback on potential new menu items

• Kitchen efficiency tests: Ensure new items can be prepared quickly and consistently

Your fast food menu: ready to serve

Crafting the perfect fast food menu is a balance between tradition and innovation. By offering a mix of classic favorites, healthier options, and trendy items, you can create a menu that appeals to a wide range of customers. Remember that your menu is more than just a list of dishes — it's a reflection of your brand's personality and a tool for driving sales and customer loyalty.

Take the time to carefully consider each item, its placement on the menu, and how it fits into your overall fast food concept. With thoughtful planning and regular updates, your fast food menu can become a powerful asset, driving customer satisfaction and business success.

Whether you're serving up juicy burgers, crispy chicken, or innovative plant-based options, let your menu showcase the best of what your fast food restaurant has to offer. With these ideas and strategies in mind, you're well on your way to creating a fast food menu that will keep customers coming back for more, meal after satisfying meal.