When guests walk into a McAlister’s Deli, they know that a hearty helping of Southern hospitality will be served with that refreshing glass of iced tea. Currently, the restaurant brand has several limited time menu items that bring a taste of the Louisiana’s Mardi Gras season to a wider audience. Sweet, savory, and more have everyone savoring the good times and food flavors.
Limited time menu items are important for restaurant brands. While value meals and pricing discounts often get people’s attention, money saved is not always as important as customer satisfaction. Bringing new flavors and experiences to the menu offers a value beyond the dollars and cents.
Currently, McAlister’s Deli has several limited time food items. They are: Turkey French Dip, Cajun Red Beans and Rice, Kickin’ Crab Chowder, Mardi Gras Cookie, Godiva Double Chocolate Cheesecake, and Frito-Lay Cajun Spice Potato Chips.
The nod to New Orleans and Mardi Gras food is clear. Without serving each dish with a side of beads, McAlister’s Deli captures the seasonal vibe in an approachable way.
The Cajun Red Beans and Rice was well as the Kickin’ Crab Chowder are the most likely obvious connection to the Mardi Gras season. These options have approachable flavors that appeal to a wide audience.
While the name refers to Cajun, the red beans and rice are not overly spicy. The pieces of andouille sausage add to the heartiness of the dish. Meant to be a side, it is almost big enough to be a meal.
The Kickin’ Crab Chowder is a perfect option on a chilly day. It is hearty without being heavy. The pieces of corn. bell peppers and potatoes add some texture to each spoonful. It might be a soup that people ask to become a permanent menu item.
Building on the success of its Halloween cookie, the Mardi Gras Cookie is a must order. The surprise cream cheese center adds some tanginess to the butter cookie. While the sprinkles bring a color story to the dessert, this treat is all about the filling contrast. Mcalister’s Deli found a winner with this cookie style. Hopefully more seasonal options will be coming soon. Just think of a lemon cream or cherry option for summer.
The most surprising omission from this seasonal, limited time menu is no specialty tea flavor. While no one would expect a Hurricane infused option or a nod to a Pimm’s Cup, but there could have been a way to bring a taste of Mardi Gras to the signature beverage.
At the same time, McAlister’s Deli allows guests to customize their tea to create the perfect flavor combination. Maybe there is a super fan who has the recipe for a Big Easy tea that they could share.
For anyone who wants a taste of these special, limited edition menu items, they better get moving. As the Mardi Gras song says, feet don’t fail you now as you run to McAlister’s Deli.