8. Chick-fil-A

Sorry to Chick-fil-A fans, but this honey mustard was definitely the worst in the lineup. The reason is pretty simple: It was more honey than mustard. None of us picked up any mustard tang or flavor through the sweetness of the honey. The look and consistency was also really similar to honey—really thick and a little translucent. I would happily drizzle this on a buttermilk biscuit rather than a chicken tender.

Try it with: Chick-fil-A Copycat Recipes

7. McDonald’s

The fact that McDonald’s honey mustard ranked this low was also a shocking twist! The sauce is pretty thin, and the flavor was confusing. It looks more like mustard than it tastes. The sauce didn’t taste bad, just not at all like honey or mustard. McDonald’s has a lot going for it, but sadly not in this ranking. My dad was pretty fired up about this one: “This tastes like they’re playing it safe. It’s disappointing.”

Try it with: McDonald’s Copycat Recipes

6. Arby’s

We all thought that Arby’s honey mustard had the strongest taste right from the first bite. Our complaint was just that it was almost all honey, no mustard. My mom said that it reminded her more of a mayo-based salad dressing than a honey mustard. It definitely had an airy, almost whipped texture, and was missing that characteristic mustard tang. If you don’t like mustard very much, you’d probably like this Arby’s offering.

Try it with: The Best Spicy Chicken Sandwiches

5. KFC

Arby’s and KFC’s honey mustards were basically tied in our rankings. We all felt like KFC’s option was too sweet and too honey-forward. It did have a grainier texture that felt closer to mustard, but the taste was missing. It was a very creamy sauce that coated the nuggets well, but didn’t really stand out in the crowd. Again, a nice dipping option if you are only meh on mustard.

Try it with: KFC Copycat Recipes

4. Burger King

I did not have high expectations for Burger King’s honey mustard, so I was surprised when it made it to the top half of the list. It’s a very smooth sauce, but not so creamy that it feels more like a dijonnaise than a mustard. This one, like so many of the others, was much more honey-forward than mustard-forward. It was, however, tangier than KFC’s, and that cemented its spot in fourth place.

Try it with: Copycat Burger King Onion Rings

3. Wendy’s

Wendy’s honey mustard was incredibly creamy, but managed to do something that none of the other creamy sauces did: provide a mustard tang that came through stronger than the sweetness of the honey! This was a huge win, in our opinion. There was definitely a sweetness to it, but the mustard bite was unmistakable. It was the first sauce in the group that felt like it truly belonged in the honey mustard category.

Try it with: Wendy’s Copycat Recipes

2. Popeye’s

Before doing this experiment, if you had asked me what my favorite fast-food honey mustard was I would have absolutely told you that it came from Popeye’s. I’m happy to report that it’s still one of the strongest contenders. It’s very creamy, very tangy and overall a well-balanced sauce. It’s not too sweet, and the tanginess of the mustard really comes through strong on the aftertaste and builds as you eat it.

Try it with: Popeye’s Copycat Recipes

1. Sonic

Trust me, we were all really surprised by how good Sonic’s honey mustard is. I don’t think I had ever tried it prior to this taste test, and I sure have been missing out. Firstly, it’s really thick, so it does a great job of coating nuggets and getting them extra saucy. Secondly, it has the sharpest mustard flavor out of all of them—my dad even wondered if it had some horseradish in it. But it’s not all burn; the honey sweetness tones it all down for a really well-balanced bite. This is the best honey mustard dipping sauce out there, and a true win for mustard lovers!

Try it with: Sonic Copycat Recipes

The post I Tried 8 Fast-Food Honey Mustard Sauces—the Best One Surprised Me appeared first on Taste of Home.

The McRib first appeared on McDonald’s menus in 1981 and has lived a famously on-again, off-again life ever since. Unlike permanent menu items, it only returns in limited runs—sometimes years apart—which has turned it into something of a cult favorite. Each comeback feels like an event fueled by nostalgia, social media buzz and long drive-thru lines.

Its most recent return made plenty of noise, proof that the McRib’s hold on fans hasn’t faded. But beneath the tangy barbecue sauce and that unmistakable rib-shaped patty, one question keeps resurfacing for those brave enough to wonder: What exactly is in a McRib, anyway?

So what’s actually in a McRib?

According to the McDonald’s website, a McRib consists of:

• Seasoned boneless pork patty
• Tangy barbecue sauce
• Slivered onions
• Pickles
• Homestyle bun

McDonald’s doesn’t disclose which cut of pork is used to form the pork patty, but it’s not a slab of rib meat. Rather than being cut from a rack of ribs, the McRib patty is made from boneless pork that’s formed into a distinctly rib-like shape. It’s sauced and dressed to deliver a rib-reminiscent flavor and texture.

Why is everyone talking about the McRib ingredients right now?

In December 2025, a class-action lawsuit filed in Illinois claimed that the McRib’s name and rib-like appearance could mislead customers into thinking the sandwich contains actual pork rib meat. The complaint argues that rib meat is traditionally considered a premium cut, and the McRib costs more than other menu items, so some customers might not assume they’re getting a formed pork patty made from lower-quality meat.

McDonald’s has denied these claims, saying the lawsuit misrepresents the facts. In a statement, the company emphasized that the McRib is made with 100% pork sourced from U.S. farmers and suppliers and noted that it has always described the sandwich as a “pork patty”—not rib meat—so customers can make informed choices.

Why the McRib Still Works

For longtime fans, that distinction is unlikely to come as a surprise. The McRib’s appeal has always been about flavor, nostalgia and timing, not butcher shop precision. Whether it’s a formed pork patty or a rack of actual ribs has never been the point for faithful fans.

Related:

• • KFC Just Dropped Cheese Curds, and My Midwestern Heart Couldn’t Be Happier
  • I Tried Burger King’s New Whopper, and It’s a Savory Masterpiece
  • Copycat McDonald’s Peanut Butter Crunch McFlurry

The post What’s Actually in a McRib Sandwich? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Disneyland is officially commemorating its 70th anniversary with a fun new Disney Happy Meal. If Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth, then it makes sense to celebrate it during the most wonderful time of the year.

What is the McDonald’s Disney Happy Meal?

The McDonald’s Disney Happy Meal is very special indeed. While the food and drink options are consistent with a regular Happy Meal, the toys got an upgrade. That’s because inside are two toys! That’s right, it’s almost too good to be true. It’s also almost too cute to be true—these special 70th anniversary toys are tiny versions of the Disney characters you know and love.

When I visited my local McDonald’s, there was a large display box by the beverage area that showed photos of all the toys. I was impressed with the breadth of Disney IP that was covered—there were classic Disney characters, plus Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars characters.

I ordered a Disney Happy Meal to see what it would look like. The commemorative box is fun, as is the small box the toys come inside. The outside of the small box shows all 70—that’s right, 70!—of the characters that are available. In my Happy Meal, I received Tiana from The Princess and the Frog and Crush from Finding Nemo. Tiana is wearing a special outfit that correlates to the new theme park ride, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, that opened in Disneyland last fall.

How long will the McDonald’s Disney Happy Meal be available?

The Disney Happy Meal is available now at McDonald’s locations nationwide while supplies last. If you are a Disney fan, I suggest that you head to your nearest McDonald’s as soon as possible. According to McDonald’s, there are 35 toy combos to collect. Now that I have one of them, I am feeling very competitive. I want to start collecting every toy available—or at least until I get my favorite Disney character: Ariel.

Related:

• McDonald’s Dropped a Brand-New Buffalo Ranch Sauce, and I Had to Try It
• Ina Garten and Julia Child Both Love This Fast-Food Burger
• I Tried Burger King’s SpongeBob Menu, and I Want to Eat It Every Day

The post McDonald’s Just Dropped a Special Disney Happy Meal—Here’s What’s Inside appeared first on Taste of Home.

So I have deep ties to the Golden Arches. While the breakfast menu is my favorite thing to order off of, I do have a soft spot for Mickey D’s french fries. I mean, don’t we all? They’re pretty much the S-tier french fry option for fast-food restaurants. So when I heard about the new McDonald’s Grinch Meal featuring Dill Pickle McShaker Fries, I immediately drove to McDonald’s—no doctor’s appointment necessary.

What comes in the McDonald’s Grinch Meal?

I invited my parents to join me for a lunch outing to try the McDonald’s Grinch Meal. First, I wanted multiple opinions on the McShaker Fries. Second, we all really love the Grinch. I know that this is a divisive opinion, but my family is staunchly in the original animated movie camp, as opposed to the 2000 live-action version.

But whichever version of the Grinch you love, I guarantee you will love this meal. The box that it comes in is so cute that my mom kept them all to use as boxes for the holidays. Here’s what comes with the Grinch Meal:

• Choice of a Big Mac or 10-piece McNugget
• Medium drink
• McShaker bag of french fries
• Packet of Dill Pickle Salt
• Pair of limited-edition Grinch socks

While there are four variations of the Grinch socks, you can’t actually choose what color you want. The mystery aspect of the socks was kind of like an adult version of wondering which toy you’d get in your Happy Meal. I liked the novelty of that—it made me feel like a kid again. My parents and I agreed that having a grown-up meal come in a festive box with a “toy” was really fun.

I ordered a Big Mac and Diet Coke, which are always good. And to be perfectly honest: I was very skeptical of the Dill Pickle McShaker Fries. I’m not quite a dill pickle fanatic like I know some people are. I like pickles a normal amount! Plus, I was worried that they would be too salty. I also didn’t know if the McShaker bag would do a good job of evenly coating the fries. It all felt very gimmicky to me. Thus, I entered this meal cautiously optimistic.

What does the McDonald’s Grinch Meal taste like?

Well, guess who needs to eat crow? Preferably Dill Pickle McShaker crow. These fries are fantastic. I was in complete awe of every aspect. The dill pickle seasoning was amazing—tart and tangy and perfectly pickled. I was happily surprised to see that real dill weed was included in the packet, along with vinegar powder and salt.

And guess what, the McShaker bag works really well! There are instructions on the back of the bag, but it isn’t exactly rocket science. Dump the seasoning packet into the bag (I started with half of the packet, which turned out to be plenty), then fold down the top and shake to mix. A light shake was all we needed to ensure that the fries were evenly coated. My mom said it’s the best thing she’s eaten at McDonald’s in years—and I have to agree.

After we finished our food, we decided to open up our Grinch socks together. It felt a little bit like opening a fortune cookie at the end of a meal. Surprisingly, we all ended up with green Grinch socks! It made us wonder if every McDonald’s location gets a different color of socks, or if the socks change every week. As someone who really enjoys food merch, I’m compelled to keep ordering the Grinch Meal until I get all four colors.

Final Thoughts

It’s safe to say that my heart grew three sizes after eating this meal. First of all, it was really fun to go sit inside McDonald’s with my parents. I can’t remember the last time I ordered dine-in McDonald’s. Sitting in McDonald’s while Christmas music played and snow swirled around outside felt really festive. A wave of nostalgia washed over me while we ate.

The Grinch Meal is available now while supplies last. These Dill Pickle McShaker Fries are an absolute must-try. Whether you’re a dill pickle fiend or simply like bold and inventive new menu items, you’ll enjoy them. I want to try more flavors of the McShaker Fries, so I hope different versions pop up on the menu now and then. And if you happen to find a McDonald’s location that has the blue socks in stock, you need to tell me ASAP.

Related:

• These Are the 7 Best Fast-Food Holiday Drinks, Ranked
• I Tried Burger King’s SpongeBob Menu, and I Want to Eat It Every Day
• 13 Types of Pickles You Should Know (and Try!)

The post I Tried McDonald’s Grinch Meal, and the Dill Pickle McShaker Fries Are a Christmas Miracle appeared first on Taste of Home.

Julia Child’s My Life in France is such a delight to read that I revisit it every couple of years, or whenever I need a pick-me-up. You can practically hear her voice in the book. Ina Garten’s Be Ready When the Luck Happens came out just last year and was an instant hit. I listened to it as an audiobook because Ina narrated it—this time I could literally hear her voice.

Aside from spending a good deal of time in France and having devoted husbands, they mention something else in their books that they have in common. When it comes time to hit the drive-thru, there’s only one place to go for their favorite fast-food burger.

What is Ina Garten and Julia Child’s favorite burger?

Burger loyalty runs deep in this country—just look at this 2025 ranking of America’s favorite fast-food burger. While I’m partial to Culver’s Double ButterBurger with Cheese, this is not their pick. Instead, they both mention their love for the cult-favorite California burger chain, In-N-Out Burger.

In-N-Out is the favorite place to grab a burger for many celebrity chefs. Alton Brown, Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay have all gone on the record stating that In-N-Out is their fave too.

It was in a recent interview with Airmail that Ina revealed her fast-food craving: “When I’m on the road doing book tours, I love going to In-N-Out Burger and having the Double-Double Animal Style. I’m encouraged because Julia Child used to love the same thing, so I guess it’s OK.” Hey, Ina, it’s more than OK to indulge in one of the best burgers around!

Related:

• Zendaya Orders This Secret Menu Item at In-N-Out Burger
• This Sandwich Was So Good I’d Visit Dollywood Just to Eat It Again
• McDonald’s Is Dropping a Limited-Edition Grinch Meal—Here’s Everything We Know

The post Ina Garten and Julia Child Both Love This Fast-Food Burger appeared first on Taste of Home.

I had the opportunity to taste everything on the menu at a special Burger King event in September. You have no idea how badly I have been waiting to shout from the rooftops that the SpongeBob menu is the best and most innovative fast-food drop I’ve seen all year. I know—it’s a very high bar! But for the past two months, my mouth has been watering thinking about this menu. So, let’s dive in.

What is the Burger King SpongeBob menu?

Are ya ready, kids? There are three brand-new menu items on this menu, plus a very special twist on a BK classic.

• SpongeBob’s Krabby Whopper: This comes with all your favorite Whopper toppings on a special yellow, square-shaped bun. It’s a SpongeBob Square Bun! A SpongeBun Square Pants!
• NEW Mr. Krabs’ Cheesy Bacon Tots: These crispy, coin-shaped tater tots filled with cheese and bacon bits come in a treasure chest carton. Better eat them before Plankton hears about them.
• NEW Patrick’s Star-berry Shortcake Pie: This strawberries-and-cream version of the beloved Burger King dessert pie has a crumbly cookie crust and star-shaped sprinkles. Is this a pie? No, it’s Patrick.
• NEW Pirate’s Frozen Pineapple Float: Pina colada-inspired cold foam tops this frozen pineapple drink. I can’t think of a better way to transport myself to a tropical island in the middle of winter.

What does the Burger King SpongeBob menu taste like?

Honestly, each item is perfection. Eating a Whopper on a yellow square bun is so fun, and it immediately got me in the mood for a trip under the sea with SpongeBob. It’s such a small detail, but it makes a big impact. I felt like I was eating a real-life Krabby Patty.

But the real stars of the show were all the brand-new menu items. I think it’s pretty hard to come up with something new and knock it out of the park, but that’s exactly what happened here. All of these tasted like something I could expect from Burger King, while also being new, interesting and innovative. The Cheesy Bacon Tots had an absolutely perfect texture: crunchy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside. The flavor was balanced too: not too cheesy, not too salty. The bacon added just a hint of smokiness that made these feel more like an item you’d get at a gastropub than a drive-thru.

I have long been a fan of the Hershey’s Sundae Pie that you can get at BK, and the Star-berry Shortcake version might actually be better. It’s so light and flavorful, and the strawberry comes through brilliantly. The cookie crust is delicious, too.

And perhaps the true star of the show: the Frozen Pineapple Float. This is a grand slam in the very competitive “fun beverage” market. The tropical cold foam is so thick and creamy, it perfectly balances the sweet pineapple flavor of the drink. It might be the only drink I ever want to order at Burger King besides my usual Diet Coke. It might also be the first fast-food drink I’ve wanted to take home and add rum to. See, innovative!

If you can’t decide which of these to try first, then I have a solution: the Bikini Bottom Bundle. It’s all four items in a limited-edition pineapple-shaped box. Who says that kids’ meals should have all the fun? And speaking of kids, there is also a King Jr. meal available that comes with a special crown. Basically, you have a lot to celebrate at Burger King this month.

How long will the Burger King SpongeBob menu be available?

It’s available December 2 until supplies last at participating Burger King restaurants nationwide. I have a feeling I won’t be the only one begging BK to keep the cheesy bacon tots on the menu year-round. And if you’re looking for a perfect date night idea, might I suggest dinner and a movie? Specifically, Burger King and the SpongeBob Movie—in theaters December 19.

Related:

• Dairy Queen’s Holiday Menu Has 2 New Treats That I Can’t Wait to Try
• P.F. Chang’s Dropped 4 New Cocktails, and I Tried Them All
• McDonald’s Is Dropping a Limited-Edition Grinch Meal—Here’s Everything We Know

The post I Tried Burger King’s SpongeBob Menu, and I Want to Eat It Every Day appeared first on Taste of Home.

First Stop: Cajun Bayou Visitor’s Center

No trip is complete without a stop at the welcome center—especially one that looks like it was pulled right out of a children’s museum. With interactive exhibits featuring videos and maps, I was able to get a sense of place before I even began my foodie journey. This is where I learned how the terms “up the bayou” and “down the bayou” are used to describe the distinctions between this subregion of Louisiana. The further down the bayou you go, the closer you get to the Gulf of Mexico. I picked up my Cajun Bayou Food Trail passport so I could collect stamps as I visited each of the stops.

Second Stop: Cinclare

The first meal of my journey was an intimate dinner at Cinclare in Thibodaux. After a day of travel, I was excited to tuck in for a good meal. I made a pact with myself before arriving that I was going to eat as much seafood as I could during my trip. And there was no better way to start than with a delicious crab aglio e olio. Fresh Louisiana crab meat tossed with spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, snow peas, lemon and Parmesan—the entire bowl was incredibly light, but so full of flavor. The crab was tender and buttery, complementing the pasta perfectly.

Dessert was nonnegotiable, especially since it was bread pudding waffles and ice cream. Yes, you read that correctly: bread pudding waffles. The waffles were topped with a salted olive oil caramel sauce that I am still dreaming of. Safe to say, it was a perfect welcome to the region.

Third Stop: Spahr’s Seafood

I will judge any breakfast spot purely based on how good its coffee is—and Spahr’s Seafood passed that test with flying colors. It was the kind of coffee I wanted to sip all day while sitting and catching up with friends. We made sure to order some beignets to go with it, and I was in heaven. They were flaky and sweet, and the perfect size for dunking in coffee.

For something a little heartier, I ordered Cajun breakfast grits. Topped with bacon bits and plenty of cheese, they were a great way to start my day. Normally the dish is topped with a fried egg, but I can’t eat eggs. The server asked my dining companion if she wanted my egg on her breakfast grits—so really, everyone won!

Fourth Stop: Politz’s Restaurant

Does it really count as a trip to the South if you don’t eat at least one po’ boy? This was exactly what I was craving when we pulled up to Politz’s Restaurant. This family-run business has been around for almost 60 years. Its menu is huge and has something for literally everyone. It was hard to decide on one thing, but once the shrimp po’ boy caught my eye, I knew that was the way to go.

These tender shrimp were battered and fried and piled high on a fresh bread roll. The sandwich was delicious, and I even started dipping it in the juice from my side order of green beans. I don’t know if this is a traditional method of enjoying a po’ boy or green beans, but I definitely recommend it.

Fifth Stop: Kajun Twist & Grill

If you have onion rings on your menu, I will order them and judge them. Luckily, when we arrived at Kajun Twist & Grill, chef and owner Anthony Goldsmith already had a heaping pile ready for us. Spoiler alert: They were amazing. Another standout appetizer was the boudin egg rolls. This fusion dish is a popular Cajun appetizer, and the filling is a mixture of pork, rice and seasonings.

I was also very happy to have a cup of the daily special, which was smoked sausage ragu patot (potato stew). It was served over rice, and I could have eaten it by the bucket. Even with all the food I was sampling, I felt like I was only scratching the surface of the variety of Cajun food available.

Sixth Stop: Griffin’s Restaurant

If I had to write a one-sentence review for Griffin’s Restaurant, it would be, “Come for the food, stay for the company.” Gina Griffin and her husband, Dwayne, joined us for our meal, and I have never felt so welcome or at ease during a meal with strangers in my life. Gina’s background in southern and Cajun cooking means that everything on the menu is incredible. I ordered a cup of shrimp-and-corn bisque that I haven’t stopped thinking about since.

Gina even gave me her secret trick for making okra gumbo so that the okra doesn’t get slimy. But I’m sworn to secrecy, so if you want to know how she does it, well, you’ll have to pay her a visit at Griffin’s. Between the food and the hospitality, I have to say that this is the first place I would visit on my next trip down the bayou.

Seventh Stop: Grady V’s

My determination to eat as much shrimp as possible carried into brunch at Grady V’s, where I ordered a Bloody Mary that came topped with a blackened Gulf shrimp. I love the versatility of brunch, because I had the options to either lean into breakfast or lunch, as well as into savory or sweet options. On this particular morning, I felt savory breakfast was the call of the day.

I got the Cajun biscuits, which came loaded with smashed boudin, pepper jack cheese and candied bacon. I paired it with a side order of crispy potatoes and loved every bite. It was a perfect toast to an incredible culinary journey.

Bonus Stop: Louisiana Gumbo Festival

When I saw that my trip overlapped with the Louisiana Gumbo Festival, I did a little happy dance. I think gumbo is a perfect meal, and I was thrilled to be in the gumbo capitol of Louisiana to celebrate it in all its glory. The Gumbo Festival has been an annual fundraiser for the volunteer fire department, and volunteers cook over 500 gallons of fresh gumbo for the occasion.

I had a chance to go into the kitchen and watch Evan Plaisance, the festival’s Grand Marshall, make the magic happen. He started cooking his family’s gumbo recipes at 4 a.m. so they would be ready for the evening’s festivities. “You’ve got 50 pounds of chicken, 40 pounds of sausage, 40 pounds of chopped vegetables and roughly about a gallon of roux,” he told me. “But for how you put it together? Y’all gotta figure that one out!”

And I definitely do need to figure that out, because this was the best gumbo I’ve ever had. It was perfectly balanced—smoky and spicy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

I don’t know that I’ve ever encountered better food or kinder people in my life. There’s hospitality, and then there’s Cajun hospitality—I think they set a new standard. Everyone was welcoming, sure, but also full of pride for their food. Most of these are family-run businesses headed by locals. The recipes have been passed down for generations, and are crucial for maintaining the legacy of Cajun cuisine. If you love food and travel, then a trip up and down the Cajun Bayou needs to go on your bucket list. And yes, I made sure to get my free t-shirt before I left.

The post I Ate My Way Up and Down the Cajun Bayou Food Trail, and I’m Still Dreaming About the Recipes appeared first on Taste of Home.

Well, that would be the Grinch, in my opinion. And he is partnering with McDonald’s to release a devilishly delicious sounding Grinch Meal this December. My only question: Do you think he shares his Micky D’s fries with Max?

What is the McDonald’s Grinch Meal?

The Grinch Meal is a brand-new collab between Dr. Seuss and McDonald’s for the holiday season. Here’s what the Grinch had to say about the partnership in a statement from McDonald’s: “THiS iS MY MEAL AND i DiDN’T PARTNER WiTH McDONALD’S OUT OF THE GOODNESS OF MY HEART,” said The Grinch in a handwritten note on crumpled paper from Mt. Crumpit. “i SAW AN OPPORTUNiTY TO BRiNG MiSCHiEF TO YOUR BELOVED “RESTAURANT” WiTH MY DELiCiOUS CHAOS FOR THE HOLiDAYS AND i TOOK iT.”

I love that McDonald’s is really leaning into the spirit of the Grinch. And this meal is special, because it contains a brand-new U.S. menu item: Dill Pickle “Grinch Salt” McShaker Fries. The fries come in a special bag that you can pour the “Grinch Salt” into and shake up for a one-of-a-kind seasoned fry experience. You can pair the fries with either a Big Mac or a 10-piece McNugget and your choice of drink.

And that’s not all—this meal also comes with some fabulous Grinch merch. That is, a pair of socks. They’re available in four colors and feature characters from the classic Grinch animated cartoon. Blue for Max, Green for the Grinch, Yellow for Cindy Lou Who and Red combines all three plus a McDonald’s ornament.

When will the McDonald’s Grinch Meal be available?

This festive bundle will be available at participating McDonald’s locations nationwide beginning on December 2. It’s only available for a limited time and while supplies last, so if you really want to eat like the Grinch for a day, I’d go on or around December 2. There’s no telling how popular this Grinch Meal will be. But, given the dill pickle craze and the fact that everyone loves limited-edition merch, I think that this collab is about to make everyone’s hearts grow three sizes.

Related:

• The McDonald’s McRib Is Back—Here’s Where You Can Get the Fan-Favorite Sandwich
• McDonald’s Dropped a Brand-New Buffalo Ranch Sauce, and I Had to Try It
• This Is Michael B. Jordan’s Go-To McDonald’s Breakfast

The post McDonald’s Is Dropping a Limited-Edition Grinch Meal—Here’s Everything We Know appeared first on Taste of Home.

What is Red Cup Day?

It works like this: You order one of Starbucks’ handcrafted holiday beverages and receive a free reusable, holiday-themed red cup—while supplies last, of course. The promotion extends to any qualifying holiday drink, and orders can be placed in person, through the Starbucks app or via DoorDash, Uber Eats or Grubhub.

The cup itself is grande size (16 ounces), and this year’s version comes with a jolly upgrade: It’s made with 95% recycled material and features a hand-drawn illustration of a Starbucks storefront by designer Yvonne Chan. “The design is inspired by the little moment of magic you feel when you step into a Starbucks from the cold outside,” Chan said. “With the hand-drawn sketch, I tried to capture the feeling of something crafted by one person for another.”

For logistical reasons, most Starbucks locations won’t serve your drink in the reusable cup, but rather in the standard paper cup, with the giveaway supplied on the side.

Red Cup Day has long served as the unofficial kickoff to Starbucks’ holiday season and one of the busiest days of the year for the brand. Because of that, it’s also the day upon which Starbucks Workers United has previously organized strikes to call for union rights.

When is Red Cup Day?

This year, Red Cup Day falls on Thursday, November 13, at participating U.S. Starbucks stores.

Starbucks says it’s giving away more cups than ever this year and bringing in additional baristas to make the day smoother for both customers and staff. It’s all part of what the company calls its Green Apron Service—a nod to the in-store warmth and hospitality that define its busiest days. Expect a full house, a lot of peppermint mochas and the kind of holiday chaos that baristas handle with superhuman grace.

If you’re planning to snag a red cup, go early, be patient and don’t forget to tip generously—it’s a long shift for the folks behind the counter.

Which drinks qualify for the red cup giveaway?

According to the official Starbucks announcement, Red Cup Day applies to any handcrafted holiday or fall beverage, whether hot, iced or blended. That includes this year’s lineup of returning favorites and new seasonal additions:

• Peppermint Mocha
• Caramel Brulée Latte
• Sugar Cookie Latte
• Sugar Cookie Breve
• Gingerbread Chai
• Gingerbread Latte
• Peppermint Hot Chocolate
• White Hot Chocolate
• Hot Chocolate
• Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
• Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai
• Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte
• Pecan Oatmilk Cortado
• Holiday and Fall Cold Foams and Protein Cold Foams

Sorry, black-coffee drinkers—the Christmas blends still don’t qualify. But use this as a time to treat yourself to a festive sip of something fun.

Related:

• I Tried 8 Oat Milks and This One Made the Best Oat Milk Latte
• What to Eat with Your Favorite 2025 Hallmark Holiday Movie
• These Are the Best Starbucks Drinks

The post Starbucks Red Cup Day Is Back—Here’s Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Taste of Home.

When is the McDonald’s McRib coming back?

It’s back right now! But there is a slight catch: It’s only back at certain regional McDonald’s locations. The cities that are definitely getting the McRib are Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, Los Angeles, Seattle and St. Louis. According to McDonald’s, it may also be available in other cities too, although none were specified. If you live outside of those eight metropolitan areas, you might have to go on a bit of a treasure hunt.

How long will the McDonald’s McRib be available?

The McRib’s availability is as elusive as the McRib itself. We only know that it will be back for a limited time, so if you are craving one, you should head to your local McDonald’s ASAP.

Are there any other new menu items coming to McDonald’s?

Yes! The McDonald’s holiday pie is also returning to menus starting on November 14. This pie is filled with a creamy custard and topped with rainbow sprinkles for an extra-festive spin. If you love a seasonal McDonald’s treat, then I think a trip to the Golden Arches is in your immediate future.

Related:

• McDonald’s Dropped a Brand-New Buffalo Ranch Sauce, and I Had to Try It
• This Is Michael B. Jordan’s Go-To McDonald’s Breakfast
• The Scientific Reason Why McDonald’s Fries Are So Good

The post The McDonald’s McRib Is Back—Here’s Where You Can Get the Fan-Favorite Sandwich appeared first on Taste of Home.

Thankfully, Cracker Barrel is making it easy to keep the cozy flavors and drop the chaos. The chain has brought back its Heat and Serve Holiday Meals this year, meaning that you can set your table with a comforting spread in about two hours. Honestly, not having a marathon prep session of peeling, chopping and brining sounds like a dream.

What are the Cracker Barrel Heat and Serve meals?

Cracker Barrel’s Heat and Serve meals are fully prepared holiday feasts designed to be chilled until mealtime, then heated and served with minimal effort. They’re a lifesaver for hosts, whether they’re juggling an intimate family meal or a packed-house feast.

It’s important to note that holiday pies can also be preordered on their own. So whether you’re on dessert duty or just following a strict pie-is-breakfast philosophy through the season, Cracker Barrel has you covered.

Here’s what’s on offer for Thanksgiving this year, starting at $114.99:

Thanksgiving Heat and Serve Family Dinner (serves four to six)

A smaller holiday spread with all the classics—ideal for an intimate table with just your nearest and dearest. The Family Dinner includes:

• Oven-roasted turkey breast
• Sweet potato casserole
• Green beans
• Cornbread dressing
• Gravy
• Cranberry relish
• Rolls

Thanksgiving Heat and Serve Feast (serves 8 to 10)

This one’s the whole shebang: dinner and dessert totally handled for everyone around the table. No panicking or doubting (Do we have enough?) required. The Feast includes:

• Two oven-roasted turkey breasts
• Sweet potato casserole
• Green beans
• Mashed potatoes
• Cornbread dressing
• Gravy
• Cranberry relish
• Rolls
• Pumpkin and pecan pies

How long are the Heat and Serve meals available?

The meals are available for preorder right now. Some Heat and Serve options are available only for Thanksgiving, while others are available throughout the Christmas season. Availability varies, so it’s worth checking ahead at your nearest Cracker Barrel.

Where do you get Cracker Barrel Heat and Serve meals?

Ordering is simple. You can preorder online at CrackerBarrel.com, then choose your nearest participating location for pickup. Slots can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to get your order in sooner rather than later—especially if you’re working around whirlwind holiday schedules.

Related:

• I Tried the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner Sandwich, and It’s Unbelievably Good
• These Are the Best Store-Bought Pumpkin Breads, Ranked
• Walmart Is Dropping a $40 Thanksgiving Meal That Feeds 10 People

The post Cracker Barrel’s Heat and Serve Holiday Meals Are Back—Here’s Where You Can Get Them appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sauces, more than anything, are becoming increasingly popular this year. McDonald’s Buffalo ranch sauce is its latest offering in a space dominated by competitors like Chick-fil-A and the fast-growing Raising Cane’s.

The chain describes its new Buffalo ranch sauce, which launched in stores nationwide on November 3, as “a blend of tangy and bold buffalo sauce, balanced by cool and creamy ranch,” with flavor notes of buttermilk, garlic and onion.

I had to see if we had a worthy new competitor in the fast-food sauce wars.

What does the McDonald’s Buffalo ranch taste like?

The new sauce can be added to any McDonald’s menu item, but the chain specifically recommends these four combinations:

• Buffalo Ranch Snack Wrap: A McCrispy fried chicken strip topped with shredded cheese, shredded lettuce and Buffalo ranch sauce, all wrapped in a flour tortilla.
• Bacon Buffalo Ranch McCrispy: A McCrispy fried chicken fillet on a toasted potato roll, topped with thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, crinkle-cut pickles and Buffalo ranch sauce.
• Bacon Buffalo Ranch Deluxe McCrispy: A Bacon Buffalo Ranch McCrispy that’s also topped with shredded lettuce and Roma tomatoes.
• McCrispy Strips with Buffalo Ranch Dip Cup: The chain’s McCrispy Strips paired with a side of the new Buffalo ranch sauce for dipping.

For the purposes of this taste test, I ordered a Buffalo Ranch Snack Wrap as well as a Bacon Buffalo Ranch McCrispy. First up was the Snack Wrap. The sauce provided a genuinely spicy yet also creamy contrast to the peppery, crispy chicken strip. I might go as far as to say that it’s my favorite iteration of the newly relaunched Snack Wrap. I’d definitely order this again.

Next, it was McCrispy time. This sandwich has never been high on my list of go-to orders at the Golden Arches, and I’m not sure that will be changing. With the addition of the bacon in this sandwich, the Buffalo ranch sauce didn’t come through as clearly, and the competing flavors resulted in a somewhat muddled overall taste. Additionally, I missed the freshness of the shredded lettuce from the Snack Wrap preparation.

Next time, I’ll stick with the Snack Wrap—or get some extra sauce just to dip my fries in, because the sauce itself is a definite winner.

How long is the McDonald’s Buffalo ranch available?

The new Buffalo ranch sauce is described by McDonald’s as a “limited-time offering” so if you want to get a taste of it for yourself, you’ll want to do so soon.

Related:

• I Tried the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner Sandwich, and It’s Unbelievably Good
• Dairy Queen’s Holiday Menu Has 2 New Treats That I Can’t Wait to Try
• I Tried the New Arby’s Apple Pie Shake, and It Tastes Like Thanksgiving in a Cup

The post McDonald’s Dropped a Brand-New Buffalo Ranch Sauce, and I Had to Try It appeared first on Taste of Home.

Thankfully, there is one sandwich that stands out for how delicious it sounds: Monica’s famous Thanksgiving leftover sandwich on Friends. Ross eagerly awaits it as much as he does the full Thanksgiving meal.

Ever since I saw that episode of Friends, I have been thinking—nay, drooling!—about that sandwich. Obviously, turkey lends itself well to a sandwich, so it’s a pretty genius creation. And what’s even better is that you can now get the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner sandwich, which is an incredibly similar option.

What is the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner sandwich?

Imagine all of the classic flavors of Thanksgiving dinner combined into an easy-to-eat, warm and toasty sandwich. This was a big promise that I am happy to report Firehouse Subs delivered on perfectly. The sandwich itself has thick slices of carved turkey breast, not thin lunchmeat-style turkey, which really makes it feel like Thanksgiving. It’s complemented by tangy cranberry sauce and savory stuffing. It also comes with mayonnaise, but I ordered mine without because it felt a little at odds with the rest of the flavor profile. I did not miss the mayo one bit!

This sandwich is a Thanksgiving dream come true. I was impressed by the flavors, and also by just how fresh and soft the bread was. It was toasty, but not chewy or hard. It made for a really delicious overall experience. And so did the side of gravy, which I kept dipping my sub into between bites. If you are not going to be home for Thanksgiving this year or simply don’t feel like cooking a big meal, this absolutely needs to be on your Turkey Day meal plan.

Another thing that made it feel extra Thanksgiving-y was the side of mac and cheese. It was extra creamy, with a perfectly silky cheese sauce that hit all the right notes. I will admit that I’m a little bit of a mac and cheese snob, and I find most options at a fast-casual chain to be grainy, flavorless or overcooked. None of that was the case here—in fact, I would order this even if I wasn’t getting a sub.

How long is the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner sandwich available?

The sandwich is available now at participating Firehouse Subs locations nationwide. You can enjoy one now through Thanksgiving, although I don’t know if they will be on the menu into December. It’s a limited-edition menu item, so if you’re craving one then I’d grab one as soon as possible. And if you feel like enjoying a more relaxed Friendsgiving this year where no one has to cook—I think a Firehouse Subs catering order is in your future!

Related:

• This New Tillamook Spread Will Give You a Perfect Grilled Cheese Every Time
• The Viral “Picklewich” Sandwich Is Coming Back to Jimmy Johns—Here’s When You Can Get One
• What to Eat with Your Favorite 2025 Hallmark Holiday Movie

The post I Tried the Firehouse Subs Thanksgiving Dinner Sandwich, and It’s Unbelievably Good appeared first on Taste of Home.

But I’m not actually here to talk about meat. I’m here to talk about the latest Arby’s apple pie shake (and tell you why you should be talking about it too).

How is the new Arby’s apple pie shake?

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You might be thinking, Arby’s does shakes? And the answer is, yes, it absolutely does. The chain even made it to second place on our ranking of minty fast-food shakes.

As an apple pie- and cinnamon-lovin’ fiend, this apple pie shake was just waiting for me to pounce. It’s a vanilla milkshake base mixed with baked green apple flavor and warm spices, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon sugar. To be totally honest, I wasn’t going in with high expectations. I know it’s not fair to Arby’s, but I had to brace myself with low expectations in case it totally bombed. Apple pie is up there with my favorite desserts of all time. I had to take this seriously.

To my joyous surprise, the shake was immaculate. The apple flavor was present without being overpowering or artificial. The cinnamon and spices—most likely nutmeg and ginger—did the heavy lifting. Even with the pervasive vanilla flavor, I tasted a solid blend of apples and spices. It was like drinking a slice of grandma’s apple pie through a straw.

My only criticism is that I wish it had some crunchy bits on top or blended throughout. I love a shake with some texture, and I think this shake in particular would have benefited nicely from crushed graham cracker. Arby’s, I’m counting on you next year.

When is the Arby’s apple pie shake available?

Apple pie is a holiday classic, and Arby’s knows we’re already getting into the wintery mood. You can grab your own apple pie shake right now for a limited time at participating Arby’s locations while supplies last. And you can bet I’ll be back soon.

Related:

• Dairy Queen’s Holiday Menu Has 2 New Treats That I Can’t Wait to Try
• These Are the Best Store-Bought Pumpkin Breads, Ranked
• I Made a Copycat Chobani Cookie Butter Creamer That Tastes Just Like the Original

The post I Tried the New Arby’s Apple Pie Shake, and It Tastes Like Thanksgiving in a Cup appeared first on Taste of Home.

DQ’s seasonal menus always bring an added dash of cheer. The chain’s Maple Cookie shake was a new fall menu offering that truly impressed us. So when I saw that the Dairy Queen holiday menu dropped new treats, I knew I had to be the first one to tell you all about it. Here’s what you can expect from DQ this year.

What’s on the Dairy Queen holiday menu?

Fans of peppermint, rejoice! The first new item is a Peppermint Bark Blizzard, which sounds like an absolute dream come true. This is the official November Blizzard of the Month, and I can’t wait to try it. It has milk and white chocolate layers blended with that famous DQ soft serve and crunchy peppermint candy cane bits. I wait all year to enjoy peppermint bark, so of course I can’t wait to eat it in Blizzard form.

The other new menu item is a Holiday Nog Shake. If you’re a fan of classic eggnog, then you’ll love this dessert version that really gives it a wow factor. Dairy Queen holiday nog syrup, soft serve and milk are blended together then topped with whipped cream and nutmeg.

And, finally, the December Blizzard of the Month will be the triumphant return of the fan-favorite Frosted Sugar Cookie Blizzard. It combines everything you love about those thick frosted sugar cookies and a Blizzard all in one cup.

How long is the Dairy Queen holiday menu available?

If reading this made your mouth water, then I have good news. The Dairy Queen holiday menu is available now. Whether you want to gobble up these treats this week or wait until November 1, you’re covered. They will be available throughout the holiday season, so stop by and see which one will be your new favorite. ‘Tis the season to treat yourself and others!

Related:

• This Cult-Fave Dairy Queen Treat Is Discontinued, But You Can Still Order It with This Menu Hack
• I Ordered Ice Cream Cakes at DQ, Coldstone and Baskin-Robbins—There Was One Clear Winner
• Dairy Queen’s Secret Menu Has a “Butterbeer Blizzard”—and It Will Knock You Off Your Broom

The post Dairy Queen’s Holiday Menu Has 2 New Treats That I Can’t Wait to Try appeared first on Taste of Home.

Jimmy John’s has always offered jumbo dill pickles with its orders. You can get them whole, halved or quartered. I’ve always loved that option, because it means you can either share your pickle with friends or maybe you just want to relish (ha) in that satisfying crunch of biting into a whole pickle. And last year, JJ’s broke the internet by offering a Picklewich, which is, ahem, a sandwich that uses pickle halves instead of bread.

This year, the sandwich chain is bringing back the Picklewich and taking it one step further with some new pickle-forward menu options.

When is the Jimmy John’s Picklewich coming back?

This year, the Picklewich hits participating Jimmy John’s stores nationwide on Monday, October 27. But, if you’re a JJ’s rewards member, you can have it even earlier. Loyalty members can access the Picklewich and entire pickle menu starting on Friday, October 24. So basically, you could have an entire pickle weekend.

“Jimmy John’s fans are freaks for our Jimmy Pickles, and last year, the Picklewich took the internet by storm. This year, we wanted to give our devoted pickle fans even more to celebrate,” said Kate Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing at Jimmy John’s.

The Picklewich will be available for the Vito, Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, Tuna and Veggie sandwich options. And, of course, the Jimmy Pickle Chips are returning alongside its pickle brother. But this year, there is also a brand new member to the Jimmy John’s pickle family: Pickle Ranch! And if you combine all of these into a meal, well, that’s the Jimmy John’s Triple Pickle. Is your mouth watering yet?

How long will the Jimmy John’s Picklewich be available?

All good things must come to an end. The Picklewich is only back for a limited time, so if you’re craving the crunch, I’d head to your local JJ’s as soon as possible once it hits stores on October 27. No word on when it will make it’s final bow, though, so enjoy it while it lasts!

Related:

• Arby’s Just Dropped a New Limited-Edition Item That Has My Mouth Watering
• Uncrustables Just Launched a New Product, and It’s Not Just for Kids
• I Tried the Burger King Halloween Menu and Found My New Obsession

The post The Viral “Picklewich” Sandwich Is Coming Back to Jimmy Johns—Here’s When You Can Get One appeared first on Taste of Home.

There was a time not that long ago when a quality cocktail out didn’t you back $15 or more, and that’s exactly the nostalgic vibe that the casual dining giant is channeling with its new $8.99 Cocktail Collection.

But are the new P.F. Chang’s cocktails actually worth it? We put each of the chain’s new bevvies to the test during a recent night out at one of the company’s U.S. locations.

What are the new P.F. Chang’s cocktails?

P.F. Chang’s new collection boasts six core handcrafted cocktails, including four brand-new offerings:

• Lychee Martini (new): This sweet and punchy drink is made with Tito’s Handmade vodka, lychee, pure cane and lime.
• Tokyo Mule (new): A slight twist on the classic cocktail, the Tokyo Mule is made with Wheatley vodka, Fever-Tree ginger beer and lime, and garnished with mint and candied ginger.
• Lemon Drop Martini (new): This tart sipper has a sugar rim, and is made with Wheatley vodka, triple sec, pure cane and lemon.
• Crimson Tiger Long Island (new): P.F. Chang’s take on the infamous boozer is made with Bacardi rum, New Amsterdam gin, Lunazul tequila, Wheatley vodka, triple sec and a splash of Coca-Cola.
• Jade Margarita: The Jade Margarita is a crowd favorite made with Espolòn Reposado tequila, lime and a float of Cointreau.
• Golden Buddha Mai Tai: This Bacardí Superior rum-based cocktail is made with orange curacao, Chinese five-spice and lime, and is topped off with Zacapa No. 23.

In addition to these, the chain also offers two additional tiers of upgraded cocktails at both the $10.99 and $12.99 price points, but for the purposes of this taste test, we focused on the $8.99 drinks.

Is it worth going to P.F. Chang’s for the cocktails?

Once I got over the minor social anxiety associated with immediately ordering four cocktails upon being greeted by a server, I was ready for my boozy adventure.

The first of the new P.F. Chang’s drinks I tasted—the lychee martini—ended up being my favorite of the four. The flavor was syrupy and nostalgic, almost like the fruit cocktail I remember loving as a kid, but with just enough acid to balance out the sweetness. I truly could have ordered another and happily sipped it all night. The drink also paired nicely with my entree, the chain’s signature Chang’s spicy chicken.

Next, I tried the Tokyo mule, a riff on the classic Moscow mule complete with the requisite copper mug. The first sips were refreshing and the candied ginger slice was a nice touch, but I wish the drink’s flavor was more ginger-forward. Especially as the drink’s ice started to melt, it ended up tasting pretty mild.

The Crimson Tiger Long Island brought me back to my college days, when this was my cocktail of choice. I was shocked at how delicious this was—strong but sweet, and another formidable pairing for the chain’s rich and warm flavors. This was my second favorite drink of the night.

Finally, it was time for the lemon drop martini, which just didn’t work for me. While the drink’s sugar rim provided a welcome respite from its sour flavor profile, I found that the cocktail had an overwhelming aftertaste. In particular, it was at odds with the flavor and texture of the tempura-battered crispy green beans appetizer I was simultaneously noshing on.

Overall, though, this drink menu is a hit. Where many other casual dining chains offer overly sweet, watered-down drinks, P.F. Chang’s was a pleasant departure from the norm. We will certainly be back to the restaurant, which has an overall ambiance that matches this drink collection’s whole ballin’-on-a-budget vibe.

Of course, you never know how long—or if—new menu items like these will stick around, so if you want to try them for yourself, head to P.F. Chang’s the first chance you get.

Related

• Buc-ee’s Is No Longer the #1 Convenience Store—Here’s What Took the Top Spot
• Aldi Just Dropped a Thanksgiving Meal for $40—Here’s When You Can Get It
• Joanna Gaines Just Dropped Her Buttermilk Biscuits at Target, and I Got a Sneak Peek

The post P.F. Chang’s Dropped 4 New Cocktails, and I Tried Them All appeared first on Taste of Home.

And speaking of renovating, Chip and Joanna filmed two spin-offs of Fixer Upper in recent years—Fixer Upper: The Castle and Fixer Upper: The Hotel—to document special renovation projects of theirs. I recently visited Waco, where I had a chance to stay at the hotel in question, Hotel 1928.

Hotel 1928 is, in one word, breathtaking. It feels like stepping back in time when you walk through the front door. Tucked inside an unassuming brick building just a few blocks from the Magnolia campus’s landmark Silos, this boutique hotel is a gem. And what was even more of a delight was the Brasserie, the restaurant just off the hotel lobby. I ate my final meal of the trip here, and it left such an impression that I can’t wait to go back and dine there again.

Here’s Everything I Ate at the Brasserie at Hotel 1928

Firstly, I have to talk about the vibes inside this restaurant. If walking through the front door of Hotel 1928 sends you back to the 1920s, then turning left and walking into the Brasserie transports you to Paris: hardwood floor with black and white penny tile accents, dark green leather booths curved into C shapes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a ton of natural light. Everything was curated, but not in a fussy way. I felt totally at ease there.

Amuse bouche

If a meal starts with an oyster, then you know I’m already having a good time. This one was a broiled Gulf oyster topped with dashi bacon jam and French onion foam. It was served in an oyster shell, which made me feel like a very fancy mermaid. The combination of bacon, onion and brine was immediately reminiscent of so many flavors of France—which was fitting, as we were in a Brasserie! Consider my bouche (mouth) très amused.

Appetizers

Then I moved on to three different appetizers. One was Jo’s Korean-style wings, served with kimchi pickles and ranch dressing. I loved the flavor of the wing sauce, and the heat built up nicely as I ate them but was never overpowering. The kimchi pickles had a great tang and really balanced the spice of the wings and the creamy dressing. I kept forgetting that I had more food coming; this would have been an excellent entree!

Next, I dug into the poached pear and burrata salad, which was garnished with vanilla bean, star anise and grilled radicchio. Now, in the interest of fairness, I used to be a burrata hater. I likened the soft, curd-and-cream center to a runny egg yolk, which I found unappealing. But then I got over it one summer when a friend served me an excellent burrata with grilled peaches. This is a reminder to stay open minded when it comes to food! This burrata dish was excellent, and I loved how the vanilla and star anise complemented the sweetness of the pear. The entire dish was light and fresh, and a really welcome note to have at the beginning of the meal.

Finally, no meal in Texas is complete without buttermilk biscuits. I slathered one half with honey butter, the other in jam, and ate them. They were crumbly perfection, and made me excited that now I can just buy Jo’s buttermilk biscuits at Target and stash them in the freezer. I can’t think of a better comfort food.

Entree

Somehow, I still had room for more food after four starters. This is always the sign of a good meal—never wanting it to end! It was pretty hard to decide what I wanted as my main, since everything on the menu sounded good. The Dr Pepper-brined pork chop immediately caught my eye (did you know Dr Pepper was invented in Waco? I learned that on this trip!), and so did the chicken fried steak. But ultimately, I leaned as far into the Southern angle as I could and ordered shrimp and grits.

This shrimp and grits might be one of the best dishes I’ve eaten in a restaurant, period. The grits were unbelievably creamy. The shrimp was perfectly seasoned, and the black pepper bacon pieces added such a nice level of umami to the entire dish. Every bite was a texture and flavor bomb, and I couldn’t stop eating. Even writing about it now is making my mouth water. And I knew I wasn’t the only one enjoying myself—once the entrees arrived, my table was completely silent for several minutes. If there’s a better marker of a good meal, I don’t know what it is.

Sides

If I see interesting side dishes on a menu, I have to order them. I can’t help it. There were two that caught my eye at the Brasserie: crispy sweet potatoes with Texas wildflower honey and jalapenos, and cast-iron mac and cheese. The mac and cheese was made with a three-cheese blend, Mornay sauce and crispy bread crumbs. There was an option to add crab to the mac, but since we were already eating a veritable feast, I declined. The sweet potatoes were super crispy and super spicy, and the mac and cheese was super creamy. The sides balanced each other well and were a perfect complement to the rest of the menu.

Dessert

Obviously, I got dessert. My weakness for bread pudding is severely taken advantage of every time I visit the South, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. This one came in its very own cast-iron skillet and could have easily served four people. It was topped with a whiskey caramel sauce and gelato. The whole dessert was so light, I couldn’t believe it; sometimes bread pudding is dense, and that was not the case here. The gelato really was a perfect accompaniment.

Final Thoughts

I had an incredible meal at the Brasserie at Hotel 1928. It can definitely be a little stressful to find quality meals when you’re traveling. Take it from my years of experience: The restaurant connected to the hotel is not always a safe bet for a good meal. But in this case, I would argue that a visit to the Brasserie is a necessity if you’re in Waco, whether or not you’re staying at the hotel.

My meal felt like a perfect balance of Southern charm and French elegance, while remaining accessible, unpretentious and comforting. It’s like they channeled the entire ethos of what Chip and Joanna have built in Waco into a dining experience. I’m just one lucky diner who was able to experience it first-hand.

Related:

• Quick Southern Recipes We Love
• Dolly Parton Reveals Why the Food at Dollywood Is So Good
• These Are the Best Finds at Aldi for Oktoberfest

The post Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Hotel 1928 Served Me A Meal So Good I’d Fly Back to Waco to Eat It Again appeared first on Taste of Home.

Now that I’m old enough to do the driving, I still prefer it to flying or taking a train. I love being able to take breaks whenever I want. And there is no greater feeling than pulling off the highway to take a break at a convenience store. I just know that a Diet Coke, a hot dog, a sleeve of Oreos and a full tank of gas are in my future.

One of the places I still really want to visit is Buc-ee’s. The Texas-based chain has gained a cult status among fans for being the biggest, best convenience store in the country. Its mascot is a beaver named Buc-ee, and you can even buy Buc-ee’s merch that features his cute little face. But despite how often Buc-ee’s goes viral on TikTok, it looks like there is a new king of convenience stores in town.

What is the top convenience store in the country?

The top spot in 2025 was taken by Wisconsin-based chain Kwik Trip. Now, I think this is a little ironic, considering that the University of Wisconsin’s mascot is Bucky the Badger. It was a Buc-ee/Bucky face off—and Bucky the Badger came out on top. On Wisconsin!

According to the American Consumer Satisfaction Index 2025, Kwik Trip ranked first with an overall score of 84 out of 100. This score was calculated based on how well each convenience store “maximized satisfaction and loyalty.” The variety and availability of food and drink products, the cleanliness of the stores and bathrooms and friendliness of staff all play a roll in this score.

I may be biased since I live in the Midwest, but I do love Kwik Trip. The floors are always squeaky-clean, and I’ve never had an issue getting the food and drinks that I want. Now I’ll have to visit Buc-ee’s and see how well it stands up!

The Top 10 Convenience Stores in the Country

Based on that same report, here are the top 10 best convenience stores in the country for 2025. It was a pretty competitive year, and a lot of places ended up tied with others. If you see one of these from the highway, safe to say you won’t regret pulling over for some food and gas!

1. Kwik Trip (84)
2. Sheetz (82) and Wawa (82)
3. QuikTrip (80)
4. Buc-ee’s (79) and Love’s (79)
5. Maverik (78), Meijer (78), Murphy USA (78) and RaceTrac (78)

Related:

• This Is the Best Fast-Food Burger in America, and I Had Never Even Heard of It
• Is Aldi’s Diet Cola Really a Dupe for McDonald’s Diet Coke?
• The Best Hot Dogs in Every State

The post Buc-ee’s Is No Longer the #1 Convenience Store—Here’s What Took the Top Spot appeared first on Taste of Home.

Even though we’re not yet through the woods of Halloween, it’s never too early to look ahead. We’ve got a sneak peek into the drinks that are made of sugar, spice and everything nice. And we honestly cannot wait to grab a sip to put us into that warm winter mood! Here’s what might be on the snowy horizon.

Here’s What We Know About the Dunkin’ Holiday Menu

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Thanks to our foodie friend @markie_devo on Instagram, we’ve got a pretty clear map of what’s possibly to come. The menu is split into two dates. Although Dunkin’ has yet to confirm, it is thought that the Peppermint Mocha Signature latte will return November 5. Peppermint and chocolate is a classic holiday flavor combo, and it’s truly Dunkin’s most iconic holiday drink. The rush of dopamine that speeds through my veins when I take that first sip on a chilly winter morn’ is unparalleled. It looks like the Toasted White Signature latte is making its monumental return as well.

Now, for the new stuff. Let’s start with what caught my eye: the Cookie Butter Cloud latte. Much like its Cookie Butter Cold Brew cousin, we can likely expect a speculoos-themed drink with a ton of tasty foam on top. I’ve loved every cookie butter drink Dunkin’ has shelled out, so I’m absolutely pumped for this one. There’s also a new Berry Sangria Refresher if you’re looking for a bit of an espresso break.

The second half of the menu, thought to be dropping December 3, includes two brand-new Wicked drinks: the Wicked Pink Refresher and the Wicked Green Matcha. There may also be a super cute 10-count of Wicked-themed Munchkins and a matching Wicked Munchkins tin. Salted Dark Chocolate Munchkins may also make an appearance, as well as a Raspberry Striped croissant. Here’s to the holidays—we can’t wait!

Related:

• We Tasted 6 Special Edition Fall Baking Mixes—Here’s Our Favorite
• This State Loves Candy Corn More Than Anywhere Else
• M&M’s Is Dropping Its First Freeze-Dried Candy—Here’s What I Thought of It

The post Dunkin’s Holiday Menu Has Been Leaked—Here’s Everything We Know appeared first on Taste of Home.

When are McDonald’s Boo Buckets coming back?

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Starting October 21, you can grab your very own Boo Bucket with the purchase of a Happy Meal. I remember begging my mom to stop at McDonald’s after practices during fall so I could up my bucket count. I’d grown quite the collection as a kid, and it wasn’t just for looks. We’d use them to go trick-or-treating, so it was a total win-win for me.

This year, you can expect our ghost, pumpkin and goblin friends to make a comeback. And it seems McDonald’s decided three wasn’t enough, so two new faces will join the collection: a Halloween cat and a zombie companion. And no, don’t worry, I don’t think the zombie is hungry for your McNuggets (at least I don’t think so). These buckets also come with themed stickers so you can spookify your pails with your unique style.

How long will the McDonald’s Boo Buckets be available?

Like all great things, they don’t last forever. Boo Buckets will be available at participating McDonald’s locations nationwide on October 21 while supplies last. Having five Boo Buckets to collect just means you get to partake in a little scavenger hunt that also comes with your favorite fast-food treat!

Related:

• How The McDonald’s Happy Meal Has Changed Over the Years
• M&M’s Is Dropping Its First Freeze-Dried Candy—Here’s What I Thought of It
• These Are the 11 Best Non-Chocolate Halloween Candies, Ranked

The post McDonald’s Boo Buckets Are Coming Back—Here’s When appeared first on Taste of Home.

It’s not that I don’t love the classics, I do! But as a bona fide drive-thru diva, I embrace versatility. And that’s why I got really excited when I heard about Arby’s latest menu drop: steak nuggets.

What are Arby’s steak nuggets?

If you love the flavor of a juicy steak but realize that it’s not very easy to eat in your car, then you’re in luck. That’s exactly why Arby’s created these bite-sized steak nuggets. They are available in a 5- or 9-count with Hickory BBQ sauce. You can also get them as a sandwich with Havarti cheese, crispy onions, pickles and a tangy mayonnaise sauce on a bun. Or, you can get them in the way that I think sounds the most delicious: in a bowl with mac and cheese and crispy onions.

What I like about this is that they’re inherently shareable. You can easily order a 9-piece and split it with a friend and, voilà, instant tasting menu!

How long will Arby’s steak nuggets be available?

The steak nuggets are available now at Arby’s locations nationwide. If you are looking to switch things up for lunch, then you can head out to your local Arby’s and chow down on some nugs. They’re a limited-time menu offering, so there’s no telling how long they’ll stick around for. If we all show up and eat a lot of them, maybe we can convince the chain to make them a permanent addition. Your move, Arby’s!

Related:

• • I Tried The Burger King Halloween Menu and Found My New Obsession
  • McDonald’s Is Bringing Back This Fan-Favorite Item for a Limited Time
  • KFC Just Brought Back This Fan-Favorite Sauce, and I Had to Try It

The post Arby’s Just Dropped a New Limited-Edition Item That Has My Mouth Watering appeared first on Taste of Home.

But I’m open-minded when it comes to food. When KFC announced that it was bringing back its Original Honey BBQ sauce because of overwhelming fan demand, I knew I had to try it. Maybe this would be the barbecue sauce to convert me.

How is KFC bringing back its Honey BBQ sauce?

KFC has long offered a Honey BBQ dipping sauce, but this throwback offering is different. The chain’s Original Honey BBQ is now available dunked on some of its most popular menu items.

Fans can now enjoy the dunked Original Honey BBQ as part of an Original Honey BBQ Combo. The combo features either two or three pieces of KFC’s Extra Crispy fried chicken dunked in Original Honey BBQ sauce, a side, a biscuit and a medium drink. The Original Honey BBQ sauce is also available dunked on the chain’s chicken tenders or the KFC Chicken Sandwich.

What does KFC’s Original Honey BBQ sauce taste like?

To see if KFC’s Original Honey BBQ sauce could convert this barbecue sauce hater, I tried it on the chain’s chicken tenders and the KFC Chicken Sandwich.

I started with the Original Honey BBQ tenders and was first struck with how intoxicating the scent was. The moment I opened the plastic container they were served in, I was drawn in by the sweet warmth. The chicken itself felt perfectly balanced between sweet and smoky, and the tenders maintained an impressive level of crispiness despite being doused in sauce.

In a moment of glorious gluttony, I also dipped the dunked tenders in the chain’s ranch and Comeback sauces. I was surprised that the sauces complemented each other quite well. The Original Honey BBQ sauce won me over.

I was admittedly less impressed with the sauce on the Original Honey BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Because the chicken is covered in sauce and the sandwich also comes with mayo, it all felt a bit overwhelming on the palate and made the chicken patty less crispy. The pickle slices on the sandwich did help by adding a bit of acid and crunch to the bite. I’d definitely order the Original Honey BBQ tenders again, but probably not the sandwich.

How long is the Original Honey BBQ sauce available?

The chain says this throwback to the ’90s favorite menu item is only a limited-time offering. If you want to get a taste of it before it goes back into the Colonel’s vault, you should order it soon.

Related:

• We Went to 8 Restaurants to Find the Best Fast-Food Chicken Sandwich
• Irresistible KFC Copycat Recipes
• Vintage Recipes from the 1990s Worth Trying Today

The post KFC Just Brought Back This Fan-Favorite Sauce, and I Had to Try It appeared first on Taste of Home.

When I go to my local DQ, I’ll always try a seasonal item. And if nothing inspires me, I tend to get a small sundae with both hot fudge and peanut butter sauce. In my mind, nothing tops peanut butter and chocolate—and Dairy Queen seems to agree with me. Dairy Queen has even taken the pairing a step further by combining two of America’s favorite snack brands into one delicious Blizzard. I’m pretty sure that this will become my new obsession.

What is Dairy Queen’s new Blizzard flavor?

If you have been following #snacknews this year, then you’ll know that Oreo and Reese’s teamed up for the collaboration of a lifetime. The brands dropped both Reese’s-flavored Oreos and Oreo-flavored Reese’s, which sounds like a snack-aisle M.C. Escher painting. The combo is undeniably delicious, and I will be sad when it’s gone.

But not too sad, because this October, Dairy Queen’s Blizzard of the Month is an Oreo Reese’s Blizzard. This treat combines the classic DQ vanilla soft serve with pieces of Oreo cookies and chunks of Reese’s peanut butter cups. Honestly, I might order a little hot fudge and peanut butter sauce on the side to swirl into my Blizzard. You see, Dairy Queen is really where I let my creativity fly.

When is the Dairy Queen Oreo Reese’s Blizzard available?

The Dairy Queen Oreo Reese’s Blizzard is available now at participating Dairy Queen locations nationwide, and you’ll be able to enjoy it all October long. DQ has been known to bring back fan-favorite Blizzards every year, so I say we go buy as many as we can to tell them we want this one to stay!

Related:

• This Cult-Fave Dairy Queen Treat Is Discontinued, But You Can Still Order It with This Menu Hack
• The New Butterfinger Flavor Is Even Better Than the Original
• I Tried the New Girl Scout Cookie, and I Already Want to Order More

The post Dairy Queen Just Dropped a Brand-New Blizzard and I’m Already Drooling appeared first on Taste of Home.

Whether it’s for the celebrity menu deals or an exciting Happy Meal toy drop, there’s always a reason to head to the golden arches on your lunch break (or, if you’re an early bird, your breakfast break). I’m pleased to announce that the latest reason to stop by is for the fan favorite returning to McDonald’s this fall: the McDonald’s Monopoly Game.

“Our fans have been clamoring for the return of Monopoly at McDonald’s, and we’re thrilled to bring it back with a modern, digital spin,” said Alyssa Buetikofer, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of McDonald’s USA in a press release from the brand.

When will McDonald’s Monopoly return?

For the first time in 10 years, Monopoly will be back on the menu starting October 6. For the uninitiated, this game was a cherished annual tradition at participating McDonald’s. All of your favorite menu items came with little game pieces attached, which you could peel off and collect.

Some of the pieces were instantly redeemable for a free soft drink or free small fry, but others were part of a set. If you collected all of the required game pieces, you could win a vacation or a car! For what it’s worth, when I was a kid, I felt like I struck gold when I won a free ice cream cone.

This time, McDonald’s is streamlining the process with its app. When you redeem game pieces in the app, you also get a special “Bonus Play” for every physical game piece. Plus, if you preregister for this year’s Monopoly game in the app by October 5, you’ll receive 500 bonus McDonald’s Reward points. I don’t know about you, but I already feel like a winner!

Related:

• How The McDonald’s Happy Meal Has Changed Over the Years
• I Tried the New McDonald’s Gold Sauce and It Tastes Like Sweet, Smoky Heaven
• What the McDonald’s Menu Looked Like the Year You Were Born

The post McDonald’s Is Bringing Back This Fan-Favorite Item for a Limited Time appeared first on Taste of Home.

In the never-ending battle between fast-food restaurants for my attention, Burger King has always been in my top three. We were fully a BK family growing up, and they remain one of only two places where I can get mozzarella sticks in a drive-thru setting (the other is Sonic). So I was very excited when I had a chance to try the new Burger King Halloween menu early.

What’s on the Burger King Halloween menu?

Burger King is getting festive this year with its first-ever Monster Menu, which has four food items celebrating classic Halloween characters:

• Jack-o’-Lantern Whopper: All the classic Whopper fixings plus American cheese and bacon are served up on an orange bun with black sesame seeds. The bun gets its orange hue from paprika—but don’t worry, it doesn’t taste any different; it’s just for color.
• Mummy Mozzarella Fries: These mozzarella fries are thin and crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside. They’re served in a spooky Mummy box, which opens to reveal a perfect place to set your dipping sauce of choice.
• Vampire Nuggets: The classic Burger King chicken nugget just got a Halloween makeover! The nuggets come in two different shapes—bats and fangs—and are served in a coffin-shaped box.
• Franken-Candy Sundae: This colorful dessert is perfect for washing down your meal. Vanilla soft serve is topped with Oreo cookie crumbs, a butter toffee green-and-purple swirl and salted caramel popping candies.

What do the new menu items taste like?

If you’re a fan of the Whopper, then you’ll undoubtedly enjoy this jack-o’-lantern version. The bacon added a really nice smoky, salty crunch to the burger. The orange bun is really fun, too.

The Mummy Mozzarella Fries are the same as BK’s regular mozzarella fries, just served in a festive container. But I will say that these are a perennial favorite of mine, since they’re much longer and thinner than classic mozzarella sticks. This means that the exterior stays nice and crispy while the cheese is totally melted through. You’re basically guaranteed a perfect cheese pull every time.

I have to say, I was super impressed with the Vampire Nuggets. They were really on-theme, and they genuinely made me feel like a kid again. The coffin box is fun, and the fang- and bat-shaped chicken nuggets were delicious. The best part? These novelty shapes were easier to dip into all the nooks and crannies of my sauce container, so I didn’t waste any honey mustard.

But the true standout was the Franken-Candy Sundae. Of all the ice cream treats I’ve eaten lately, this one is the most unique. The soft serve blends perfectly with the sauce in this sweet treat. I loved that the sauce was green and purple, because it really felt like I was eating some monster’s favorite dessert. I loved that the main flavors were butter toffee and salted caramel—a nice change of pace from chocolate desserts. The Oreo crumbs gave a nice texture to the soft serve, and the popping candies on top snuck up on me. My mouth was popping long after I finished my treat!

When is the Burger King Halloween menu available?

The Monster Meal is available beginning September 30 at Burger King locations nationwide. You can order any of the menu items a la carte, or as a part of a meal. The Vampire Nuggets are also available in the King Jr. meal for kids, which come with a collectible Scooby-Doo Halloween toy. And for fans of the iconic Burger King trick-or-treat buckets, Monster Menu-inpsired buckets will be available on October 13.

Related:

• Panera Brought Back a Beloved Soup Just in Time for Fall
• Walmart Just Dropped the Pioneer Woman Fall Collection—And It’s Already Selling Out
• How to Make a Halloween Charcuterie Board Shaped Like a Jack-o’-Lantern

The post I Tried The Burger King Halloween Menu and Found My New Obsession appeared first on Taste of Home.

We’re used to Chipotle changing up its meat options. Last year, we tried the smoked brisket. Earlier this year, we were gifted with Chipotle Honey Chicken. The chain just does not miss. This is exactly why I was beyond ecstatic to be given the chance to taste test its newest sauce. Here’s my honest review.

What is the new Chipotle sauce?

It’s a red chimichurri sauce, and, quite frankly, it’s beautiful to look at. Made fresh in-store every day like most of the other ingredients, this red chimichurri sauce features aromatic hand-cut cilantro and chile peppers. It’s a bright sauce that’s a tad different than the salsas you may already be used to at Chipotle, but don’t knock it ’til you try it.

How does the new Chipotle sauce taste?

Sweet is the first descriptor I’d choose. The moment it hit my tongue, I was roped in. I wanted more. The rest of Chipotle’s salsas don’t have much of a sweet element outside of a slight hint in the corn salsa, so I immediately found myself digging in for another bite. Now, if you have that soapy cilantro gene, fair warning, it’s packed with cilantro. While the peppers do a supreme job masking the forward cilantro taste and creating a delightful combination, it’s still present. But as I was blessed with the cilantro-loving gene, I really couldn’t get enough. I had five sides of the stuff, and I still almost ran out!

I tried it on both steak and chicken burritos and bowls. It was much easier to mix into the bowls, but there’s something tantalizing about pouring a heaping amount of sauce into the open pit of a burrito. I treated it just like my Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supremes: one big bite, one big pour, one big bite, one big pour, etcetera, etcetera. Steak is my go-to protein option, but I honestly thought it complemented the smoky chicken flavor just a bit more. It also blends well with the pico de gallo and guacamole. And if you’re worried about spice level, it’s not unbearable at all. It’s just enough to make a dent, but not enough to have you panting for a glass of water.

How long is the Chipotle red chimichurri available?

You can try the red chimichurri sauce starting Tuesday, September 30, for a limited time. While we’re unsure of the time frame, typically Chipotle tries its new items out for a few months before replacing them with something else. If this one is a big hit (as it deserves to be), perhaps it will stay a little longer! And, better yet, if you’re a Chipotle Rewards member, you can try the new sauce for free on launch day.

Related:

• The $4 Walmart Freezer Find I Make When I Don’t Feel Like Cooking
• The Costco Pumpkin Pie Is Back—Here Are 6 Ways You Can Serve It
• Panera Brought Back a Beloved Soup Just in Time for Fall

The post Chipotle Is Dropping a Brand New Sauce, and I Got a Sneak Preview appeared first on Taste of Home.

My curiosity was piqued! Would the new Starbucks protein line taste chalky or have chunks of powder dispersed into an otherwise-smooth drink? I’ve tried many protein powders, shakes and coffees and have been disappointed more often than I’ve been impressed. But I’m always searching for a drink that doesn’t have that thick artificial powder flavor, so I put four of the new Starbucks protein drinks to the test.

What are the new Starbucks protein drinks?

Starbucks released seven new menu items. Three of them come with protein cold foam on top, including:

• Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha
• Iced Vanilla Cream Protein Latte
• Chocolate Cream Protein Cold Brew.

The remaining drinks are not served with cold foam on top:

• Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Matcha
• Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte
• Protein Matcha
• Vanilla Protein Latte.

To make the protein cold foams, Starbucks adds premium whey protein for 15 grams per serving. For the protein lattes, Starbucks blends 2% milk with whey protein to create “protein-boosted milk.” On its own, milk delivers 12 to 16 grams of protein per grande-sized latte—while the “boosted” lattes will have approximately 27 to 36 grams of protein.

Are the Starbucks protein drinks good?

Overall, I couldn’t believe how little I could taste the protein powder in the drinks I tried. That stuff is hard to disguise! Here are the four I tasted:

• Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte: This was about on par with what I’d expect for a sugar-free drink. It was very artificially sweet and reminded me of sugar-free Torani syrup. However, the vanilla flavor was prominent, and the protein flavor wasn’t. A grande offers 27 to 29 grams of protein.
• Chocolate Protein Cold Foam Cold Brew: This was a close second for me. The flavors and textures felt very balanced, and the protein was only slightly noticeable upon first sipping. Rather than the typical chalky chocolate of protein powder, this was reminiscent of chocolate syrup. Since the cold foam was sitting on top of cold brew instead of a latte, it was more coffee-forward.
• Matcha Protein Latte: The protein cold foam on top made the regular iced matcha latte creamier than usual, with a little froth from the cold foam. A grande has 28 to 36 grams of protein, depending on whether you order it iced or hot.
• Iced Vanilla Cream Protein Latte: This was my favorite of the bunch. It’s made like a regular iced latte with the vanilla protein cold foam on top. I don’t normally put cold foam on lattes because I find them sweet enough already, but I enjoyed it in this instance because it meant I’d be sipping on a drink that has 26 grams of protein. I tasted the cold foam on its own before taking a sip or stirring it into the coffee, and I could taste the protein in the cold foam ever so slightly, but that flavor goes away quickly. After stirring the cold foam into the protein latte, I found it to be frothy and smooth with the sweet, toasty vanilla flavor throughout.

How long are the Starbucks protein drinks available?

Right now, the protein cold foams and protein lattes are available on the permanent menu. However, Starbucks is unveiling more than these new signature items. The chain will also allow customers to order the protein versions of many beloved cold foam flavors. So in reality, we’re getting more than just the seven new drinks.

You can add the following permanent protein cold foam flavors to any cold drink: banana, vanilla, sugar-free vanilla, chocolate, matcha, salted caramel, brown sugar and plain, plus seasonal protein cold foams like pumpkin and pecan. Plus, you can add the protein-boosted milk in any milk-based items you order. Personally, I’ll be trying it in shaken espressos, and also asking for protein-boosted milk in the Vanilla Cream Protein Latte, since that comes with regular milk.

Related:

• This New Fall Starbucks Drink Is More Exciting Than the Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks You Need to Try
• Keto Starbucks Drinks

The post Starbucks Just Released Protein Lattes and Cold Foams—Here’s My Honest Review appeared first on Taste of Home.

In theory, I understood the concept of “Sandwich Day,” but I had never eaten a sandwich so good that I would want to keep it a secret. But I had also never been to Dollywood, let alone their Flower and Food Festival, so I had no idea that I was missing out on a life-changing sandwich.

What is the Dollywood Flower and Food Festival?

Every spring, Dollywood hosts an annual Flower and Food Festival. The aptly named celebration focuses on all the beautiful flowers and delicious food around the park. Dollywood has some of the best amusement park food around, so it makes sense that they would make a point of celebrating it!

This year, I had the chance to visit the festival and try out their Tasting Pass. This is a physical pass on a lanyard that you can wear around the park to receive five different tasting portions at various food stalls and restaurants.

If you’re a first-time park visitor like I was, then the Tasting Pass is a great way to make the overwhelming abundance of food options feel a little less intimidating. There were large signs outside of every restaurant indicating which options were included in the pass, which made it easy to scan and see what looked good.

And when I saw the photo of this sandwich, I knew I was in for a treat. I just didn’t anticipate that I was about to eat the best sandwich of my life.

What is the Dollywood sandwich?

This magical, life-changing sandwich is officially called the Hot Honey BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. It’s made with pulled pork, caramelized onions, roasted garlic aioli, dill pickles and a brioche bun.

It’s a combination of very simple ingredients, but they come together in the most satisfying way imaginable. When I ordered the sandwich they asked me if I was okay with waiting about 10 minutes so they could get more pickles. I considered saying that it was fine without pickles, but I’m glad I waited. Every aspect of this sandwich is crucial to its success.

I grabbed a knife and fork because the entire thing looked delicious but very messy. But much to my surprise, I was able to easily eat it as a sandwich! It somehow maintained its structural integrity despite the amount of toppings. The pork was incredibly tender and flavorful and not at all chewy, stringy or soggy. The ratio of pork to other ingredients was also perfect, and it had exactly the right amount of barbecue sauce. Every bite was a satisfying combination of tangy sauce, sweet onions and crunchy pickles. It somehow managed to navigate that exact balance of spicy and sweet that hot honey promises.

How can I get this Dollywood sandwich?

Unfortunately (or fortunately), procuring this sandwich requires a trip to Dollywood. And from my research, it looks like it was a seasonal item for this year’s Flower and Food Festival. This sandwich was so good that I’m making this my official plea to the good people at Dollywood to make it a year-round item in the park. Dolly, if you’re listening, I will always love you—and this sandwich!

While I wait to see if it comes back for next year’s festival, I’ve been attempting to recreate it at home by making pulled pork sandwiches, adding a drizzle of hot honey and topping it all off with a layer of caramelized onions and a schmear of aioli. Oh, and don’t forget the pickles!

Related:

• This Is Dolly Parton’s #1 Favorite Thing to Eat at Dollywood
• Ways to Increase Your Tolerance of Spicy Foods
• Easy Barbecue Recipes for the Simplest Cookout Ever

The post This Sandwich Was So Good I’d Visit Dollywood Just to Eat It Again appeared first on Taste of Home.

There are fewer fast-casual restaurant chains that I have spent more time in than a Panera Bread. When I traveled a lot for work, Panera was always my go-to stop for lunch and a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Sometimes, I wonder just how many You Pick Twos I’ve eaten in my life—or how many different combinations.

So it pleases me greatly that Panera has brought back one of its best soups ever this fall.

What soup is back at Panera?

It’s time for the triumphant return of Panera’s black bean soup. After a full seven year hiatus, the black bean soup is finally back on the menu. This has long been lauded by fans as Panera’s best soup, so it was puzzling when it was discontinued. Even though I have a soft spot for the broccoli cheddar in a bread bowl, I do agree that the black bean soup is the best offering. Plus, unlike Panera’s other soups, the black bean soup is vegetarian.

The black bean soup is filled with beans, of course, both black and lima. It’s rounded out with some other veggies and aromatics like onions and garlic for a hearty bowl. It also has lemon juice, which I think is essential to cutting through all those heavy flavors and adding a bit of brightness.

How long will the black bean soup be back?

The soup is available at Panera locations nationwide right now. As for how long it will be available? That’s a little tricker to tell. Right now, it remains unclear as to whether this is back permanently, or if it’s just a limited-time seasonal offering. Regardless of if this is back for a few months or forever, I take this as a sign that Panera is moving in the right direction by listening to its fans. Now, please, bring back the Sierra Turkey sandwich!

Related:

• Fall Soup Recipes to Keep You Warm and Toasty
• Copycat Panera Bread Recipes
• 10 Secrets You Might Not Know About Panera Bread

The post Panera Brought Back a Beloved Soup Just in Time for Fall appeared first on Taste of Home.