Fast food lovers in cities like New York City have been facing rising prices for popular combo meals like a Big Mac pack or Whopper meal, with prices reaching almost $14. However, Chili’s has introduced a new combo deal called “3 for Me” which includes a burger, fries, an appetizer, and a bottomless drink for as low as $10.99. The chain’s new burger, the Big Smasher, is a half-pound of smashed meat topped with classic burger toppings, and is being touted as a cost-effective and delicious alternative to traditional fast food options. Chili’s director of culinary, Brian Paquette, stated that the new combo deal and burger were created in response to rising costs at fast food chains.
In response to the rising prices at traditional fast food chains, other casual dining brands like Applebee’s, Red Lobster, and Outback Steakhouse have introduced their own value meal deals to attract budget-conscious customers. Applebee’s offers a “2 for $25” meal deal, including an appetizer or two side salads and two entrees. Red Lobster’s “Shrimp Your Way” deal offers three shrimp dishes for $25 or two for $21. Outback Steakhouse recently had a limited Steak & Lobster deal for just $19.99, including a 6 oz. sirloin steak, lobster tail, and two side dishes. These deals provide customers with good value and a variety of options at affordable prices.
While fast food giants like McDonald’s have raised prices by 10% in the last two years and 100% in a decade, Chili’s and other casual dining brands are offering competitive deals to attract customers. Despite McDonald’s reporting a year-over-year sales increase of 8.7%, other chains are seeing a slight uptick in customers due to their affordable meal deals. Chili’s is happy to cater to cash-strapped customers looking for a satisfying meal at a reasonable price, even if it means taking business away from traditional fast food restaurants.
Chili’s sees an opportunity to offer lower-priced alternatives to drive-thru favorites with their “3 for Me” combo and Big Smasher burger. The chain is aware of the dangers of relying on discounts to build a customer base, but believes that their promotional deals are resonating with customers who are feeling the effects of rising fast food prices. While McDonald’s strives to find the right balance of value for money, Chili’s and other casual dining chains are catering to customers who are seeking more affordable dining options in a competitive market.
Overall, fast food lovers in cities like New York City are facing higher prices for meals at traditional chains like McDonald’s and Burger King. Chili’s and other casual dining brands are offering affordable alternatives like combo deals and value meals to attract budget-conscious customers. These deals provide customers with a range of options at reasonable prices, and may be contributing to a slight increase in customers choosing casual dining over fast food options. While fast food giants continue to see strong sales, casual dining chains are finding success with their cost-effective offers in a challenging market.
