This summer, step into the Fryverse — packed with flavors, creative pairings, and traffic-boosting initiatives that prove one thing: Fries go with everything!
With National French Fry Day landing on July 11th, you have the perfect reason to showcase fries as the ultimate sidekick across menus everywhere.
Inspired by superhero multiverses, this National French Fry Day, you’re not limited to one storyline. Instead, explore different “fry dimensions” that spotlight flavor-combos, labor-saving opportunities, and pairings that Hulk out check averages, bringing guests back for more. Fry lovers, assemble!
The Classic Universe
It’s a fan-favorite for a reason; the burgers, tenders, and hot dog-plus-fry combo is always a classic — sometimes, the OGs still pack the biggest punch. According to research, burgers are the most consumed food in the U.S., with more than 2 billion devoured each year — and when guests bite into a burger, more than 80% of them pair it with fries.
For a seasoned super-side, consider promoting a limited-time combo meal with your signature burger and Lamb Weston® Seashore™-Style™ Fries. Leave room for this duo to team up with toppings and sauces like Delancey Street Deli® Nashville Hot and Garlic Parmesan or a trendy Yuzu Beet Aioli, offering a premium add-on for an upgradeable option.
Need promo inspo? Try running a social media poll and let your followers vote on their favorite fry combos — then feature the winner on July 11th, just in time for #NationalFrenchFryDay. Or drive traffic with a fun and easy BOGO Fry Day promo: Buy any classic entrée, get a free order of fries, or upgrade option for only $1.
The Loaded Universe
For global flavors and minimal effort, consider loaded applications. Think Korean BBQ beef with kimchi, Salsa Macha Loaded Fries, birria with queso drizzle, or the ever-popular taste of the Mediterranean — with shawarma or falafel and tzatziki. These loaded fry bowls are low-labor, high-margin, and are made for sharing.
To streamline your back-of-house, consider labor and time-saving initiatives like prepping toppings and sauces in batches, cross-utilizing proteins such as pulled chicken or bacon, and creating a dedicated fry-building station for easy access. If you build it, they will come!
The Tot-Verse
Fries aren't just for lunch and dinner anymore. From breakfast to bar menus, fries are hot-to-tot! The potato is as versatile as it gets, and tots allow you to take the fry craze across dayparts. Tots can transition dishes from brunch (think: cheesy bacon tot waffles) to happy hour (think: Buffalo tots with blue cheese crumbles) and even be featured in desserts (hello: cinnamon sugar tots with a caramel drizzle or a chocolate dipping sauce).
Americans can’t get enough tots — chowing down on nearly 70 million pounds a year, according to research. That’s more than 190,000 lbs. daily, proving tots aren’t just a nostalgic side dish. Bring the tot craze to your menu with an LTO that highlights unique applications across your menu. It’s an easy way to get guests interested with minimal prep, just add your touch with house-made dipping sauces to join the spud life!
The Skins Universe
Potato skins are another hero in disguise. They offer a fast assemble option for appetizers and a crispy base that can withstand weight. Their hearty size and sturdy shell make them perfect for piling on toppings without falling apart. Pile high with hearty proteins to level up these potato options as a featured entrée — think BBQ brisket, pork belly, Buffalo chicken, or even mac ‘n’ cheese.
Consider offering handheld “slider skins” with the potato as the bun, filled with pulled pork or sandwiched between a meaty burger and crisp pickle. They’re fast to assemble, great for sharing, and versatile for catering options or bar bites.
The Goes-with-Anything Universe
Have fun with this one — fries can go with any and everything! From sweet and salty combos like fries and ice cream to savory mashups like fries with tacos, sushi, or as salad toppings, fries can add texture, comfort, and gotta-have-it quality to nearly any dish.
These creative pairings not only drive social media moments but can also help you cross-utilize ingredients and build high-margin, trend-forward offerings.
Super LTOs
Lamb Weston’s LTO Fry Kit is your secret weapon for leveraging National French Fry Day. According to research, about half of guests want a fry-featured promotion on this day, and restaurants see a 40% boost in sales when they offer LTOs.
Designed to make planning simple and execution seamless, the kit includes customizable signage templates, social media content ideas, and fry menu inspiration to help you celebrate the holiday from table to table. Use it to train your team, streamline operations, and market your fry-forward features easily.
This National French Fry Day, embrace the multiverse. With endless fried possibilities, from seashore cuts to street-style, to savory tots, and crispy skins — you’ll unlock new dishes, reduce prep stress, and give guests a reason to celebrate all summer long. Ready to build your own Fryverse?
*Content provided in partnership with Lamb Weston.