Food & Beverage
Fast casuals embrace winter with LTOs
Winter has arrived and brought with it a plethora of limited-time offers.
January 26, 2022 by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com
Winter has arrived and brought with it a plethora of limited-time offers. See below for a partial round-up of menu items designed with winter in mind.
Jamba
Jamba has created a plant-based smoothie — The Go Getter — a citrus and tropical flavored beverage blended with matcha green tea, a vegetable and fruit juice blend, mangos, kale and orange juice.
"For some, it's natural to be motivated to start the new year fresh, but the challenge is staying committed to a sustainable plan that will help us reach our goals long-term. With The Go Getter, Jamba fans can jumpstart their 2022 routines in a way that's easy, convenient, delicious, and portable," Danielle Fisher, Jamba VP of Marketing said in a company press release. "While consumers often think green drinks can't be delicious, The Go Getter tastes great and is packed with immunity-boosting vitamins A and C, which are especially important during the winter months."
In addition to helping its fans on their wellness journeys in 2022, Jamba is also expanding its list of beverage choices. Now back by popular demand, the Gotcha Matcha and Bold 'n Cold Brew iced beverages topped with a plant-based sweet cloud whip foam topper, will be featured on the menu permanently.
Jamba has over 850 locations operating in 36 U.S. states, as well as the Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand and Japan.
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The Greentox Smoothie, Tropical Immuni-C Bowl and Mighty-C Immunity Juice are available now for a limited time. Provided. |
Juice It Up
Juice It Up has entered 2022 with three limited-time offers catering to healthy lifestyles: Greentox Smoothie, Tropical Immuni-C Bowl and the Mighty-C Immunity Juice.
"Our newest limited-time offers are packed with micronutrients that can help set guests on the strongest path right out of the gate, especially during the pivotal early months of a new year," Susan Taylor, president, said in a company press release.
Joining Juice It Up's lineup of plant-based smoothies for a limited time, the dairy-free Greentox Smoothie blends pineapple, banana, cucumber, red grapes, strawberries and spinach.
Vitamin C and its immunity-boosting advantages, however, reside at the heart of the Tropical Immuni-C Bowl and the Mighty-C Immunity Juice. Starring the acerola cherry, it blends passion fruit juice, orange juice, pineapple, banana and acerola, plus an immunity boost.
Rounding out the trio is the Mighty-C Immunity Juice, which features pineapple, ginger, apple, orange and red grapes. The juice is finished with an immunity boost for an extra dose of vitamins during the cold and flu season.
Juice It Up has over 100 locations open or under development across California, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon and Texas.
Planet Smoothie
Planet Smoothie is teaming up with Vital Proteins, a collagen brand to create three smoothies to help support customers in their New Year's resolutions. They include the Vitality Vibes, Wellness Warrior and Get Up & Glow.
"We are so excited to partner with Vital Proteins to offer these best-tasting smoothies!" said Nicole Butcher, director of marketing for Kahala Brands, the parent company of Planet Smoothie. "No matter what our guests' New Year's goals are, these smoothies have healthful benefits with nutrient-rich ingredients and Collagen Peptides. Each smoothie has 10 grams of collagen per serving, which helps support healthy hair, skin, nails and joints."
The Planet Smoothie brand operates 150 locations in over 25 states.
Nekter Juice Bar
Nékter Juice Bar has created three initiatives to help guests' healthy living resolutions throughout the year, including a new line of Slender Blender smoothies, a 21-day, 20% Off "Keep it Real" Challenge and a discounted annual Cleanse subscription plan.
The line of metabolism-boosting, high-fiber, lower-calorie Slender Blender superfood smoothies are freshly made just like its handcrafted functional and traditional smoothies, according to a company press release. Each smoothie has fewer than 400 calories and includes the chain's new Metabolism Blend booster that helps burn fat, boost energy, and curb unwanted cravings.
Offerings include:
- Strawberry Banana Protein Slender Blender: A blend of strawberries, banana, peanut butter, vanilla protein, coconut flakes, housemade cashew milk, agave nectar and Metabolism Boost.
- Avocado Dream Slender Blender: A combination of avocado, spinach, banana, green apple, orange, coconut flakes, acerola cherry, agave nectar and Metabolism Boost.
- Up Beet Slender Blender: A detoxifying option with strawberries, beet, orange, red apple, celery, acerola cherry, ginger and Metabolism Boost.
Nekter also launched a "Keep it Real" challenge to encourage guests to make a conscious effort to swap one processed or unhealthy food for something real. With a purchase of any cleanse, guests receive 20% off any fresh menu item each day for the next 21 days, including the Slender Blenders or any juice, smoothie or bowl.
With many of its guests looking to cleanse their bodies of toxins at the start of the New Year, Nekter wants to make it as easy as possible to stay on track for the long-term by launching its first annual subscription plan where guests can receive one Classic Cleanse or Celery Detox Cleanse per month for just $360 per year, CEO Steve Schulze said in the release.
"It's no secret that New Year's Resolutions are very difficult to sustain, so we want our guests to avoid setting unrealistic expectations and instead incorporate a few, simple 'health hacks' that can lead to sustainable, lifelong healthy living habits," he said. "Our new Slender Blenders, 21-day 20% off challenge, and new annual subscription plan are meant to make it easy for people to make better eating choices in 2022."
Nekter has over 170 locations in the U.S. and 150 more in development.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Tropical Smoothie Cafe is jazzing up the winter season with the return of the Cajun Shrimp Wrap, the Cajun Shrimp Salad and the Hurricane Smoothie, available now through April 19.
"Our guests have been loving our cocktail-inspired smoothies, and the Hurricane Smoothie has the fruit-forward flavor that is a delicious treat to enjoy anytime," Chief Marketing Officer Deborah von Kutzleben said in a company press release. "Our Cajun Shrimp dishes feature bold bayou flavors and tender shrimp that guests really enjoy as a break from the ordinary. Our shrimp items were extremely popular last year, so we're encouraging guests to take advantage of this promotion while it lasts."
Tropical Smoothie Cafe has over 1,040 locations nationwide.
Scooter's Coffee
Scooter's Coffee is hoping its Cold Foam will help customers renew, refresh and reset in the New Year. Made to order with nonfat milk, Cold Foam floats atop and melds with any Scooter's drink. It can be made sugar-free or infused with any combination of Scooter's Coffee flavored syrups and sauces, according to a company press release.
In addition to Cold Foam, the menu includes Sea Salt Caramelicious, Crème Brulee Latte, Almond Milk Latte, Coconut Milk Latte, Oat Milk Latte, as well as the Everything Bagel Sandwich, the Bacon Burrito and Caramelicious Muffin.
Scooter's Coffee has nearly 400 stores in 23 states.
Peet's Coffee
Peet's Coffee is ringing in the new year with a winter menu featuring handcrafted coffee beverages inspired by churros coated with cinnamon and sugar. They include the Churro Latte, Churro Caramel Macchiato and the plant-based Cold Brew with Sweet Cinnamon Oat Foam, according to a company press release.
For members only via the Peet's app, the menu also features a Churro Mocha and Cinnamon Black Tie. Peet's Coffee is also debuting a warm breakfast sandwich this January to add to its all-day menu, the Turkey Bacon & Egg White sandwich
"January marks a refresh and rejuvenation for many of us. The bold and comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar, offering a relief from winter's chill, increase in popularity this time of year," Patrick Main, senior beverage innovator, said in the release. "Our plant-based Cold Brew with Sweet Cinnamon Oat Foam meets growing interest in non-dairy ingredients and delivers on taste for a sweet treat any time of day."
Peet's is available in 17,000 cafes and grocery stores nationwide.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread has added a Thai Chicken Soup and Citrus Asian Crunch Salad just in time for winter and to celebrate National Soup Month.
Thai Chicken Soup is the first of more than 10 new soups in the brand's innovation pipeline, all inspired by bold and authentic flavors from around the world, according to a company press release.
"Our chefs have been meticulously obsessing over every ingredient in our test kitchens, creating new menu items with a focus on taking familiar flavors and adding a unique Panera twist, turning them into bold, amazing dishes our guests will love," Claes Petersson, head chef and chief food innovation officer, said in the release. "From classic Panera favorites to new, enticingly bold flavors, we hope to satisfy any craving and provide more adventurous flavors for our customers."
Panera has 2,118 cafes in 48 states and in Ontario, Canada.
Modern Market
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| The Winter Harvest Salad pays homage to the season while staying true to Modern Market's sustainable roots. |
Modern Market Eatery recently launched its winter menu, featuring a pizza, two salads and a vegetable-inspired lemonade.
The Brussels & Bacon Pizza and the Winter Harvest Salad pay homage to the season while staying true to Modern Market's sustainable roots, according to a company press release. The Brussels & Bacon Pizza, for example, layers freshly tossed dough with white sauce, which is topped with nitrate-free bacon and lightly charred Brussels sprouts and finished with a light balsamic drizzle.
The Winter Harvest Salad features a balsamic reduction that compliments charred Brussels sprout. It's coupled with herb-roasted chicken, sweet potatoes and pomegranate seeds.
The Carrot Ginger Lemonade, made with juiced carrots and hand-juiced ginger, rounds out the menu.
Modern Market has 30 locations across Colorado, Texas, and Arizona, as well as Denver International Airport and the campus of Notre Dame.
Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes
Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes is highlighting its Lifestyle Burgers menu, which fit a variety of popular dietary preferences, including Paleo, Keto, low-calorie, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free lifestyle, said President Doug Willmarth.
"Americans want to eat healthier but still crave the food they love. Our Lifestyle Burgers are the perfect solution to meet the growing demand for more dietary choices and better nutrition without giving up great taste," he said in a company press release. "For nearly 15 years, we've been giving our Guests unique options like our Iceburgers. As dietary preferences have evolved, we've added new choices."
Options include:
- The Vegan, featuring Dr. Praeger's Black Bean Vegan, avocado, sauteed mushrooms, onions, lettuce, tomato, BBQ Sauce on a potato bun.
- The Paleo, featuring a half-pound certified Angus Beef Iceburger, Applewood smoked bacon, avocado, pickles, onion, tomato and mustard.
- The Keto, featuring a Turkey Iceburger, cheddar, avocado, jalapeños, tomato and mayo.
- The Low Cal, which has a one-fourth pound Certified Angus Beef Iceburger, avocado, onions, tomato and Cholula.
- The Gluten-Free, featuring a one-fourth pound Certified Angus Beef, pepper jack, bacon, jalapeños, Cholula and Real Mayo on a gluten-free bun
Cinnaholic
Atlanta-based Cinnaholic is not only treating customers to two limited-time rolls, but the menu will also include customizable menu options and featured desserts throughout the winter months.
Available through March, they include:
- Shake, Rattle & Roll, peanut butter frosting topped with homemade peanut butter cups, fresh bananas and pretzels.
- Very Berry Roll, topped with crème brûlée frosting piled with fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberry jam and powdered sugar.
- King Cakes: Select states are bringing back their vegan King Cakes for the month of February.
Customers also have the option to add frostings and toppings to their Cinaholic desserts including brownies, cookies and banana bread
Since its inception in 2010, the brand has opened more than 60 locations.
Luna Grill
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| Luna Grill is kicking off 2022 with its "Luna Vida" bowl line. |
Luna Grill is kicking off 2022 with its "Luna Vida" bowl line, a collection of four Mediterranean options to fit a variety of lifestyles and diet needs, including Classic Mediterranean, Keto, Vegetarian and Vegan.
"Our guests have been asking us for more flexible lifestyle choices, so we sought out to create a lineup of bowls that deliver the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean while meeting our guests' needs. Whether looking for something lighter in the new year or simply following a specialized diet, there is an option available for everyone," Luna Grill Director of Marketing Morgan Rogers said in a company press release.
Now available at all Luna Grill locations systemwide, the line starts with the low-calorie, gluten-free and high protein (29g) Classic Luna Vida Bowl featuring grilled sustainable salmon served on top of a bed of lettuce with lemon vinaigrette, Greek cabbage, chickpea salad, cucumber, tomato and feta drizzled with housemade tzatziki.
From there, guests may customize based on their specific dietary needs and preferences, by ordering the Keto Bowl (swapping in spicy feta), Vegan Bowl (swapping falafel for salmon, changing the sauce and removing feta) or Vegetarian Bowl (swapping falafel for salmon).
"We know lifestyle bowls are incredibly popular with our guests, and we wanted to expand our offerings with value-conscious choices full of rich flavors and quality ingredients such as sustainably grilled salmon and housemade falafel, a wonderful plant-based protein option," Rogers said.
Luna Grill was founded in 2004.
Noodles & Co
Noodles and Co has created the LEANguini, which has the taste and appearance of a traditional linguini noodle, but has 56% fewer net carbs, 30% fewer total carbs, and 44% higher protein than traditional wheat noodles, according to a company press release.
"Menu innovation is extremely important to Noodles & Company. When adding new better for you options to our menu we use only the freshest ingredients to deliver food that is not only better for you but robust in flavor," Nick Graff, executive chef and vice president of culinary, said in a company press release. "Our guests took so well to Zoodles and Cauliflower Noodles, creating a health-forward noodle that has the same taste and texture as a traditional noodle was the clear next challenge for our dedicated and talented culinary team and we think you will love the result."
Noodles & Co has over 450 restaurants.
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| The Turmeric Tzatziki Immune Booster dressing includes an anti-inflammatory blend of turmeric and black peppercorn, while the Miso Ginger Gut Booster dressing has fermented, probiotic-rich ingredients for increased gut health. |
Chopt Creative Salad Co
Chopt Creative Salad Co, which has 72 locations, is putting healthy dining options on display on its "Eat Well Be Well," which includes two salad dressings featuring superfood ingredients. The Turmeric Tzatziki Immune Booster dressing includes an anti-inflammatory blend of turmeric and black peppercorn, while the Miso Ginger Gut Booster dressing has fermented, probiotic-rich ingredients for increased gut health, according to a company press release.
The menu is limited-edition and includes:
- Eat Well Be Well Sesame Ginger Crunch Salad (from 305 calories) Ingredients include romaine, cabbage and cilantro, grilled chicken, broccoli, carrots, onion, shallot and Miso Ginger Gut Booster dressing.
- Eat Well Be Well Kebab Cobb Salad (from 310 calories) Ingredients include romaine, Mama Lil's Spicy Peppers, onion, feta cheese, pita chips, choice of grilled chicken or falafel with Turmeric Tzatziki Immune Booster dressing.
- Eat Well Be Well Chinese Chicken Bowl (from 290 calories) Ingredients include cabbage and cilantro, chicken, broccoli, carrots, onion, wontons, choice of warm grains or cauliflower tice with Miso Ginger Gut Booster dressing.
About Cherryh Cansler
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