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Burgers are beefing up the menu at Canadian chains.
Something special
Operators are offering as many specialty burgers as they do hamburgers and bacon cheeseburgers combined. Specialty burgers boast new flavour combinations and presentations, which differentiate them from the competition. Many recent additions also feature unusual flavour profiles and non-traditional toppings – fried egg, anyone?
Burgers without beef
Non-beef burgers are also commonly menued. After beef, chicken is the most popular protein for burgers on the Top 250 Canadian chain menus, followed by garden/veggie burgers. Fish and turkey have a low showing, but there is much room for growth as consumers become more adventurous.
| Most Popular Burgers |
# of Items |
| Specialty Burgers |
188 |
| Hamburger |
98 |
| Bacon Cheeseburger |
90 |
| Cheeseburger |
69 |
| Chicken Burger |
56 |
| Burger Value Meal |
43 |
| Garden/Veggie Burger |
38 |
| Mushroom & Swiss Burger |
17 |
| Fish Burger |
15 |
| Steak Burger |
4 |
| Turkey Burger |
1 |
Base: 620 incidences in the Top 250 Canadian chains
Source: January-June 2009 Menu Monitor, Technomic Information Services.
Barbecue is hot
The most common flavour note for specialty burgers is barbecue, reflecting the popularity of this flavour across the menu in both limited-service and full-service segments. Jalapeño and chipotle rank second and third respectively, demonstrating the ‘bolder burger’ trend – customers can intensify traditional burgers with additional heat.
Ethnic flavours spice things up
The top specialty burger flavours also indicate a trend toward ethnic-inspired toppings. Mole sauce, pineapple, Cajun flavouring, pico de gallo and teriyaki are examples of ethnic ingredients used for toppings.
These ‘exotic’ ingredients add new excitement to the classic hamburger. Chains are responding to consumer interest in burgers inspired by international cuisines, creating opportunity for further innovation.
| Top Specialty Burger Flavours |
| Barbecue |
| Jalapeño |
| Chipotle |
| Garlic |
| Peppercorn |
| Mole |
| Pesto |
| Pineapple |
| Cajun |
| Pico de Gallo |
| Teriyaki |
| Hawaiian |
| Hickory |
| Banana |
| Chili |
| Honey |
| Bourbon |
| Black Pepper |
Base: 620 incidences in the Top 250 Canadian chains
Source: January-June 2009 Menu Monitor, Technomic Information Services.
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