6 Secret Menu Items You Should Ask About

Julio Neves
November 7, 2024

The idea of a “secret menu” can make dining out feel a little more like an adventure. Most popular chains keep a few exclusive items off the official menu, only available to those “in the know.” Sometimes these items are unique twists on well-known dishes, while other times they’re entirely new creations you’d never think to ask for. The next time you’re at one of these chains, consider trying one of these hidden gems to see what the fuss is all about. Here’s a look at six popular secret menu items and why you should consider adding them to your next order.

1. Starbucks’ “Medicine Ball” (Honey Citrus Mint Tea)

If you’ve ever needed a drink to soothe a sore throat or help fight off a cold, Starbucks has you covered with its secret “Medicine Ball” drink, also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. This comforting blend of tea, lemonade, and honey has become so popular that it’s even rumored some stores have it listed on the registers now.

What It Is: The Medicine Ball is made from a mixture of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, combined with steamed lemonade and a touch of honey. Some fans add a pump of peppermint syrup to make it even more refreshing and soothing.

Why You Should Try It: It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for cold weather or a day when you’re feeling under the weather. The combination of mint, citrus, and peach flavors is both delicious and restorative, and it’s less sugary than most other Starbucks drinks.

How to Order: Ask for a “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” or just go for the “Medicine Ball,” and most baristas will know exactly what you mean.

2. In-N-Out’s “Animal Style” Burger and Fries

No conversation about secret menus would be complete without mentioning In-N-Out’s iconic “Animal Style” burger and fries. Even if you’ve never ordered it, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of it. “Animal Style” is one of the most famous secret menu options around, and it has a cult following among burger enthusiasts.

What It Is: An Animal Style burger comes with mustard-grilled patties, pickles, extra spread (In-N-Out’s version of Thousand Island dressing), and grilled onions. Meanwhile, Animal Style fries are smothered with the same spread, cheese, and grilled onions, making for a gooey, savory snack.

Why You Should Try It: The mustard-grilled patties give the burger an extra depth of flavor, and the spread adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the crunch of the pickles and onions. As for the fries, they transform the usual crispy side into something closer to loaded nachos, with cheese and sauce in every bite.

How to Order: Simply say “Animal Style burger” or “Animal Style fries,” and the In-N-Out team will know exactly what to do.

3. McDonald’s “Land, Sea, and Air” Burger

McDonald’s has long been known for its iconic Big Mac, crispy Filet-O-Fish, and classic McChicken. But what if you combined all three into one super sandwich? Enter the “Land, Sea, and Air” burger—a Frankenstein-style creation that includes a beef patty, fish filet, and chicken patty stacked in one bun.

What It Is: The Land, Sea, and Air burger brings together the Big Mac, Filet-O-Fish, and McChicken. This towering sandwich layers the flavors of beef, fish, and chicken, giving each bite a unique mix of textures and tastes.

Why You Should Try It: While it may sound like an odd combination, the Land, Sea, and Air burger offers a surprisingly tasty blend of flavors that’s worth a try, especially for those who love experimenting with new flavor combinations. It’s also a lot of food, making it a fun choice for those looking to indulge.

How to Order: Since this isn’t a true menu item, you’ll likely need to order the three sandwiches separately and assemble them yourself. However, some McDonald’s locations are known to prepare it for you if you ask nicely.

4. Chipotle’s “Quesarito”

Chipotle fans have been creating their own burrito variations for years, but one of the most popular off-menu items is the “Quesarito.” It’s a mashup of a quesadilla and a burrito, where a cheese quesadilla acts as the shell, wrapping around the filling of your choice.

What It Is: Imagine a regular burrito, but instead of the typical tortilla, it’s wrapped in a gooey, melted-cheese quesadilla. You can fill it with your choice of rice, beans, meat, salsa, guacamole, and more, making it a fully customizable, ultra-cheesy creation.

Why You Should Try It: The Quesarito takes Chipotle’s burritos to the next level by adding an extra layer of melted cheese. It’s indulgent, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for anyone who loves cheese or just wants a more decadent Chipotle experience.

How to Order: Ask for a “Quesarito,” and most Chipotle employees will know what you’re talking about. However, it’s a bit more labor-intensive than a regular burrito, so be prepared to wait a little longer for your order.

5. Taco Bell’s “The Hulk” and “The Incredible Hulk” Burritos

Taco Bell is famous for allowing customers to customize their orders in countless ways, so it’s no surprise that they have a few secret menu items up their sleeves. Two of the most popular are “The Hulk” and “The Incredible Hulk” burritos, which involve adding guacamole and making some unique swaps for a fresh twist on the classic Taco Bell burrito.

What It Is: “The Hulk” is a basic bean-and-cheese burrito with an extra helping of guacamole. Meanwhile, “The Incredible Hulk” takes things further by swapping out the beef in a Five-Layer Burrito with fresh guacamole. Both versions add a creamy, avocado-based twist to Taco Bell’s familiar flavors.

Why You Should Try It: Guacamole is a fantastic addition to any Taco Bell item, and these burritos give you an excuse to add it without any extra hassle. The creaminess of the guacamole contrasts nicely with the beans and cheese, adding freshness and flavor.

How to Order: Simply ask for “The Hulk” for a bean burrito with guacamole, or “The Incredible Hulk” for a Five-Layer Burrito with guacamole instead of beef. Not every Taco Bell employee may be familiar with these names, so you may need to explain the customization you want.

6. Jamba Juice’s “Pink Star” Smoothie

If you’re a fan of fruity, refreshing smoothies, Jamba Juice’s “Pink Star” might just be your new favorite secret drink. This smoothie is a delicious, dessert-like option that many people say tastes just like a pink Starburst candy.

What It Is: The Pink Star smoothie combines strawberry, lemonade, and other fruity flavors to create a smoothie that’s sweet, tangy, and full of vibrant color. Some versions also include frozen yogurt for extra creaminess.

Why You Should Try It: The Pink Star is perfect for anyone looking for a sweet treat that still feels somewhat healthy. Its strawberry-lemonade taste is refreshing and unique, setting it apart from the usual smoothie options.

How to Order: Ask for a “Pink Star” smoothie, and most Jamba Juice employees will know how to make it. If not, you can always request a strawberry-lemonade smoothie with a touch of frozen yogurt for a similar effect.

Making the Most of Secret Menus

Secret menu items add an extra element of fun and customization to eating out. By knowing what to ask for, you can try unique items that aren’t available to most customers. Many restaurants don’t advertise these items, and not all employees may be aware of them, so it’s helpful to approach your order with patience and a spirit of adventure. Here’s how you can make the most of secret menus:

1. Be Clear and Patient: Since these items aren’t official, not all employees may know exactly what you’re asking for. Be ready to explain the item or make substitutions if necessary. You may even find that your server can suggest additional twists to make your order even better.
2. Expect a Higher Price: Some secret menu items involve adding extras like guacamole, cheese, or extra meats, which can add to the price. While they’re worth trying, keep in mind that your bill may end up a little higher than usual.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative: Many secret menu items started as customer-made creations. If you have an idea for a unique twist on a menu item, don’t be afraid to ask for it. You never know; it might just become your new favorite.
4. Enjoy the Experience: Part of the appeal of secret menu items is the novelty and sense of exclusivity they offer. So, enjoy the experience and the reactions of friends or family when they hear about your secret order.

From soothing teas to over-the-top burritos, these secret menu items offer a way to break the routine and try something new. Next time you’re visiting one of these chains, take a chance on a secret menu item—you may find it becomes your go-to order.