Consumer cravings aren’t static. They evolve quickly, fueled by social media, shifting economic realities, and new definitions of value and experience. Fries, once a menu mainstay needing no introduction, are now part of a larger push toward bold, differentiated, and high-performing offerings.

Today’s diners expect more than ever - from bold flavor and consistent quality to visual appeal that resonates in person and on screen. In the hustle of meeting those expectations, it’s easy to overlook the role that side dishes play in elevating the entire meal experience. But sides, especially fries, are no longer just plate-fillers. They’re a proven driver of preference, satisfaction, and repeat visits. And they’re evolving fast.

Across the industry, side dish innovation is quietly but powerfully reshaping menus. Suppliers are expanding their portfolios with new cuts, coatings, and flavor-forward formats designed to solve back-of-house challenges, enhance perceived value, and capture attention in a competitive market. It’s worth taking a fresh look. Exploring what’s new in this space could unlock efficiencies, differentiate your offerings, and even inspire seasonal LTOs that boost traffic and check averages.

Fries are a prime example. With tight margins and rising expectations, they offer more potential than many operators realize. From adding a second fry to support a seasonal LTO, to choosing a premium option that elevates the guest experience, small shifts can make a big impact. The operators who approach their sides strategically, not just as staples, but as growth opportunities, are the ones best positioned to stand out and succeed.

Meeting the Moment: Operators Are Under Pressure

Between rising food costs, labor shortages, and evolving consumer behaviors, running a restaurant today means juggling more than ever. Diners are increasingly selective, and they’re looking for meals that feel worth the spend, not just in taste, but in quality, presentation, and uniqueness.²

That puts pressure on operators to offer menu items that are craveable, on-trend, and visually appealing, while also being easy to prep and consistent to execute. It’s a tough balance to strike, especially in kitchens that are already stretched thin.

Operators don’t have time or budget for trial and error. Every product has to pull its weight, whether it’s served during a packed lunch rush or delivered 30 minutes after it leaves the kitchen. That’s why having a supplier who actively tracks trends, invests in R&D, and tests products in real-world conditions can make a huge difference. The right partner doesn’t just sell ingredients. They offer solutions that save time, reduce waste, and elevate guest experience.

From Product Supplier to Strategic Partner

In today’s competitive foodservice landscape, innovation can’t sit on the sidelines. It’s a critical lever for staying relevant, managing operational pressure, and exceeding guest expectations. But even the smartest innovation can go unnoticed unless operators actively engage their suppliers - not just as vendors, but as strategic partners.

That’s where Lamb Weston^® comes in. As one of the world’s leading producers of frozen potato products, Lamb Weston^® has built its innovation pipeline around the real challenges operators face every day: rising labor costs, elevated guest expectations, off-premise performance, and the need to stand out on the plate and the feed.

Instead of defaulting to long-standing menu staples, operators can tap into the evolving Lamb Weston^® portfolio to uncover new ways to drive check averages, streamline prep, and create menu moments worth remembering. Think about testing a second fry to support a limited time offer or introducing a snackable shareable that doubles as a bar menu upgrade. With the right supplier partner, even small moves can unlock big impact.

Innovation in Action: How Lamb Weston Helps Operators Win

The newest lineup from Lamb Weston^® is a direct response to operator feedback and performance demands. These five products reflect the brand’s deep investment in culinary R&D, food science, and consumer validation—ensuring that what’s new is not just exciting, but dependable.

Each of these five products was designed for real-world performance. They deliver on flavor, hold time, prep ease, and presentation.

• Lamb Weston Seasoned^TM 5/16" Thin Regular Cut Skin-On Seashore-Style^TM
   Lightly seasoned with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic, these skin-on fries offer a crispy coating that holds up for up to 30 minutes*. Plus, their thinner cut boosts plate coverage and shortens cook time.
• Lamb Weston Seasoned^TM 3/8 Crinkle Cut Original Recipe
   Bold flavor meets sturdy texture in these crinkle cuts seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, and more. The grooved surface enhances crunch and visual appeal.
• Lamb Weston Bacon Cheese Stuffed Spudz^TM
   Bite-sized, loaded, and ready to go, these tots pack in bacon, cheddar, and mozzarella. Ideal for shareables or bar menus, they’re portion-controlled and prep-friendly.
• Lamb Weston Colossal Crisp^TM 5/16" Regular Cut
   An ultra-crispy batter makes these fries a standout for delivery and dine-in. They combine fast cooking with high impact on the plate.
• Lamb Weston Colossal Crisp^TM Thick ’ N Crispy Fries
   These hearty, skin-on fries hold heat and flavor, offering a hand-cut look and a satisfying bite that works across multiple dining formats.

In a landscape where every menu item counts, trend-savvy suppliers can be a powerful tool. But it’s up to operators to take the first step: ask questions, stay curious, and explore the full potential of what your suppliers bring to the table.

 References:

1. Top Restaurant trend to Watch out for in 2025, oysterlink.com/spotlight/restaurant-industry-trends/.
2. “2025 State of the Restaurant Industry .” State of the Restaurant Industry 2025, National Restaurant Association , 5 Feb. 2025, restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/research-reports/state-of-the-industry/.

*Study conducted without packaging