Breakfast Chicken Meatballs
blueberry, sweet potato, oats, Vermont maple syrup
Consumer Reach (Chicken Meatballs)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 81%
Gen Z = 76%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 40%
Gen Z = 39%
Trends (Chicken Meatballs)
The meatball market is valued at $27.6 billion in 2023 and expected to reach $44.3 billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 12.6%, driven by consumer demand for "convenient, ready-to-eat, or easy-to-cook food options" and "versatile food that can be used in a variety of dishes." What are the breakfast food and beverages preferences of members of the "Gen Z" generation? | Wonder
Gen Z "loves new flavors, really exciting, new, colorful, vibrant, flavors" and are drawn to "visual novelty — the kind that invites lots of Instagram posts." Vegan Blueberry Breakfast Bars - The Conscious Plant Kitchen
Gen Z favors "fresh, sustainable, new, and innovative" foods, with menu callouts like "natural," "organic," and "sustainable" resonating more than any other generation. Maple Blueberry Oatmeal Porridge | Orchids + Sweet Tea
Potential Challenges:"The traditional notion of breakfast is changing" but meatballs aren't established as a breakfast format in American culture, unlike existing mashups (chicken & waffles, breakfast pizza). Gen Z's Snack Wish List: Nostalgic, Novel, and Nutritious: Symrise In-Sight
Menu Marketing
Breakfast Chicken Meatballs (Savory Breakfast Chicken Bites)
Savory chicken paired with roasted sweet potatoes, hearty oats, and juicy blueberries, all lightly sweetened with Vermont maple syrup for a satisfying, protein-packed breakfast.
​
​
Savory Churro Breakfast Sandwich
barbacoa patty, pico de gallo egg patty, pepperjack cheese
Consumer Reach (Churro)
Know it:
Total U.S = 83%
Gen-Z = 90%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S = 55%
Gen-Z = 69%
Consumer Reach (Barbacoa)
Know it:
Total U.S = 50%
Gen-Z = 59%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 30%
Gen-Z = 35%
Consumer Reach (Pepper Jack Cheese)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 94%
Gen-Z = 90%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S = 66%
Gen-Z = 60%
Trends
“Barbacoa’s appearance on menus in the United States has increased by 60.5% over the past four years, with awareness of the ingredient highest among Millennials and Hispanic consumers.”Flavor of the Week: Barbacoa trending among Millennials
“Millennials and Hispanic consumers are particularly drawn to barbacoa, driving much of the current demand.”Flavor of the Week: Barbacoa trending among Millennials
“With its rich flavor and adaptability, barbacoa is poised to remain a popular choice in the food scene, especially as restaurants and food brands continue to innovate and offer it in new and exciting ways”
Potential Challenges: Traditional churros require specialized equipment for frying and precise timing. Using churros as sandwich "bread" would be extremely difficult to execute in a fast-paced environment.
Menu Marketing
Savory Churro Breakfast Sandwich
Sizzling barbacoa, cage-free eggs topped with fresh pico de gallo, and melty pepper jack cheese, all wrapped in a warm, cinnamon-dusted churro-style bun
Breakfast Bao Buns
Miso glazed pork belly, fluffy eggs, cheddar cheese
Consumer Reach (Bao Buns)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 30%
Gen Z =43%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. =13 %
Gen Z =18 %
Consumer Reach (Pork Belly)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 81%
Gen-Z = 81%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 39%
Gen-Z = 41%
Trends
Whole Foods predicts bao buns as a top 2025 US trend, with products "ripe for fusion and unexpected mash-ups" that have "continued popularity both on TikTok and restaurant menus" UnileverYelp. Wow Bao is now "the largest dumpling house in the United States" Wow Bao delivered hot to your door or from your local grocery store, showing mainstream acceptance.
US consumers demand "handheld and snackable quick breakfast formats" with breakfast sandwiches being "the most popular breakfast item" that's "convenient, inexpensive, portable" Sandwiches Market to Grow by USD 46.5 Billion (2025-2029), Rising Online Presence of Vendors Boosts Market, Report with the AI Impact on Market Trends - Technavio.
Umami & Global Flavors Trending: Americans are embracing "Korean-inspired egg sandwiches with kimchi" and other fusion breakfast dishes Sandwich Trends: What's New in Sandwich Ideas? | US Foods. US breakfast scene shows "new and exciting food mixes" with "meals that mix tastes from around the world with traditional American dishes" Breakfast Sandwich Trends: Data And Analytics - Tastewise.
Potential Challenges
Traditional bao requires steaming equipment and specialized technique that conflicts with Starbucks' menu simplification removing items that are "complex to make" Simplifying our menu for a better Starbucks Experience - About Starbucks.
Menu Marketing
Breakfast Bao Buns
Caramelized miso-glazed pork belly, fluffy cage-free eggs, and melty cheddar cheese wrapped in a pillowy-soft bao bun.
Breakfast Arepa
Savory pulled chicken, chorizo seasoned, Manchego egg frittata, Farmers cheese
Consumer Reach (Arepa)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 25%
Gen Z =35%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 9 %
Gen Z = 11 %
Consumer Reach (Pulled Chicken)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 90%
Gen Z = 85%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 72%
Gen Z = 67%
Consumer Reach (Manchego Cheese)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 33%
Gen Z = 34%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 13%
Gen Z = 9%
Consumer Reach (Chorizo)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 74%
Gen Z = 73%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 43%
Gen Z = 45%
Trends
Latin American Food Boom: Arepas have "become increasingly popular in the United States" with "specialized restaurants dedicated to arepas" appearing nationwide TOP 10 BEST Colombian Food in Seattle, WA - Updated 2025 - Yelp +2. 2025 will see "elevated versions of beloved Latin American street foods" with "arepas from Venezuela" being "presented in premium, chef-driven formats" 28 food and drink trends to watch in 2025 | Food & Drink | Speciality Food Magazine.
Breakfast Chorizo Trending: Americans are embracing "savory breakfast foods" with "chorizo" becoming "morning favorites" AmazonClasspop. In Mexican-heavy US areas, "chorizo con papas" is "a popular filling for breakfast tacos" and "chorizo with eggs" is a "popular breakfast dish" ClasspopMintecglobal.
Premium Cheese Market Growth: Manchego exports to US have "doubled in the last five years" with the US being "the main destination for exports". US cheese market expected to reach $53.66 billion by 2033, driven by "consumer interest in quality" and "artisanal" products.
Handheld Convenience Demand: US consumers want "handheld and snackable quick breakfast formats" with breakfast sandwiches being "the most popular breakfast item" that's "convenient, inexpensive, portable" PrnewswireColombiaone.
Menu Marketing
Breakfast Arepa
Golden cornmeal pocket filled with savory pulled chicken, seasoned chorizo, a fluffy Manchego egg frittata, and creamy farmer’s cheese. A Latin-inspired morning bite packed with rich flavors.
Nduja Polenta Breakfast Sandwich
seared nduja polenta cake “buns”, kale frittata, mozzarella cheese
Consumer Reach (Nduja)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 13%
Gen Z =20%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 2%
Gen Z = 4%
Consumer Reach (Polenta)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 49%
Gen Z = 39%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 18%
Gen Z = 8%
Trends
'Nduja Growing Popularity: In the US, 'nduja's "popularity boomed around 2015–2016" and was "featured in dishes at restaurants including New York City's The Spotted Pig" Polenta Meal Market Report | Global Forecast From 2025 To 2033. 'Nduja is "gaining more and more popularity worldwide" and was classified as "the best cured meat in the world" by TasteAtlas Best Polenta Brand (2025 Update) - Taste of St. Louis.
Italian Breakfast Innovation: Polenta breakfast dishes are emerging with "Italian Polenta Breakfast Casserole" becoming "a great dinner entree too" and sweet breakfast polenta gaining popularity. Polenta is "believed to be Italy's most popular staple food after pasta and pizza".
Premium Italian Ingredients: The polenta market is growing due to "increasing consumer shift towards gluten-free and health-conscious diets" with "growing trend of experimenting with traditional Mediterranean and Italian cuisines".
Artisanal Breakfast: Americans are embracing "nutrient-packed dishes" and "artisanal brews" with breakfast becoming more sophisticated.
Potential Challenges: 'Nduja "got a notable spike in popularity" but "hasn't really caught on as a mainstream success" Polenta: The surprising secret history of one of Italy’s favorite foods | CNN. Most American consumers are unfamiliar with this specialty Italian ingredient. Might be too complex operationally, ingredients too niche/expensive, and concept too avant-garde for mainstream coffee shop customers who expect familiar, quick breakfast options.
Menu Marketing
Nduja Polenta Breakfast Sandwich (Polenta Spicy Italian Sausage Breakfast Sandwich)
Golden polenta cakes infused with rich, spreadable spicy Italian sausages, kale frittata and creamy melted mozzarella. A smoky, bold flavor that's the perfect way to start your morning.
​
Caffeinated Breakfast Sausage Sandwich
egg frittata with peppers and rosemary, cheddar cheese, onion bun
Consumer Reach (Breakfast Sausage)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 96%
Gen Z = 93%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 78%
Gen Z = 69%
Consumer Reach (Egg Frittata)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 59%
Gen Z = 48%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 29%
Gen Z = 18%
Trends:
Flavor Profile Misalignment: Current Gen Z preferences favor "salty" (sweet and salty) emerging as the dominant flavor profile for 2025 Gen Z driving 2025 fast casual menu trends | Fast Casual, with research showing Gen Z has a 5% higher craving for "swalty" over "swicy," with that preference expected to grow by 32% over the next three years Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows. The savory rosemary-pepper combination doesn't align with these trending flavor profiles.
Potential Challenges:
FDA Oversight Requirements: Caffeinated food products face complex regulatory scrutiny. FDA has only affirmed the use of caffeine at a tolerance level of 0.02 percent in cola-type beverages Caffeine Products: Guide to FDA Caffeine Labeling Regulations, and when caffeine is used as a food additive, manufacturers must provide evidence supporting its safety for the intended use Unpacking FDA Caffeine Regulations: What You Need to Know.
Menu Marketing
Caffeinated Breakfast Sausage Sandwich
Savory, caffeinated sausage paired with a fluffy egg frittata, sweet peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, infused with rosemary. All wrapped in a warm, toasted onion bun.
Caffeinated Breakfast Sausage Sandwich
egg frittata with peppers and rosemary, cheddar cheese, onion bun
Consumer Reach (Breakfast Sausage)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 96%
Gen Z = 93%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 78%
Gen Z = 69%
Consumer Reach (Egg Frittata)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 59%
Gen Z = 48%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 29%
Gen Z = 18%
Trends:
Flavor Profile Misalignment: Current Gen Z preferences favor "salty" (sweet and salty) emerging as the dominant flavor profile for 2025 Gen Z driving 2025 fast casual menu trends | Fast Casual, with research showing Gen Z has a 5% higher craving for "swalty" over "swicy," with that preference expected to grow by 32% over the next three years Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows. The savory rosemary-pepper combination doesn't align with these trending flavor profiles.
Potential Challenges:
FDA Oversight Requirements: Caffeinated food products face complex regulatory scrutiny. FDA has only affirmed the use of caffeine at a tolerance level of 0.02 percent in cola-type beverages Caffeine Products: Guide to FDA Caffeine Labeling Regulations, and when caffeine is used as a food additive, manufacturers must provide evidence supporting its safety for the intended use Unpacking FDA Caffeine Regulations: What You Need to Know.
Menu Marketing
Caffeinated Breakfast Sausage Sandwich
Savory, caffeinated sausage paired with a fluffy egg frittata, sweet peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, infused with rosemary. All wrapped in a warm, toasted onion bun.
Shakshuka Eggs
Phyllo shell, beef kofte and tomato shakshuka, kale and mushroom egg bite
Consumer Reach (Shakshuka Eggs)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 21%
Gen Z = 27%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 5%
Gen Z = 5%
Consumer Reach (Phyllo Shell)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 39%
Gen Z = 28%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 18%
Gen Z = 6%
Consumer Reach (Beef Kofte)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 48%
Gen Z = 56%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 27%
Gen Z = 35%
Trends:
Strong Alignment with Gen Z Food Trends
Bold, Complex Flavors: Gen Z continues to seek "bold, experimental tastes" with "early exposure to exotic flavors and cuisine from all around the world" Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows. Shakshuka's rich tomato-spice profile fits this perfectly.
High-Protein Focus: 61% of Americans increased their protein intake in 2024, with protein becoming "a status signal" for discipline and health awareness Snacking in 2025: Health, identity & protein trends. Your egg bites component aligns with the trending high-protein egg bite market that's booming for convenient breakfast options.
Instagram-Worthy Presentation: Shakshuka is described as "a colourful, flavour filled dish" that "has become a hit on Instagram", which is crucial since 70% of Gen Z identifies TikTok as their most valuable platform for food recommendations.
Potential Challenges:
Operational Complexity: The combination of phyllo shells, beef kofte, tomato shakshuka, and egg preparation could strain operations during busy periods when Starbucks is removing items that "can be complex to make".
Menu Marketing
Shakshuka Eggs
A rich tomato and pepper blend with tender beef köfte fills a golden phyllo shell, topped with a kale and mushroom egg bite.
Savory Hand Pie
cacio e pepe chicken, mozzarella, Swiss chard & smoky gouda, chicken, sage, scrambled egg
Consumer Reach (Cacio E Pepe)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 24%
Gen Z = 39%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 8%
Gen Z = 13%
Consumer Reach (Chicken)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 90%
Gen Z = 85%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 72%
Gen Z = 67%
Trends:
Gen Z Trends Alignment: Moderate-to-Strong Compatibility
Portability and Convenience: Hand pies perfectly match Gen Z's lifestyle needs. As restaurant customers, Gen Z are more likely to opt for quicker service models and/or items they can enjoy on the go Gen Z Food Trends for Restaurants, and many Gen Z workers (46.5%) have more than one job, making them busy and more likely to spend on quick, convenient food options Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows. The handheld format delivers the convenience this generation demands.
Instagram-Worthy Potential: The flaky pastry exterior and rich, colorful filling could appeal to Gen Z customers who are likely to post about their dining experiences on their social media platforms Tracking the Latest Gen Z Food Trends in 2025. According to Statista's September 2024 report, an overwhelming 70% of Gen Z respondents identify TikTok as their most valuable platform for food recommendations Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows.
Potential Challenges:
Simplification Concerns: This creates tension with current goals. “We're simplifying our menu to focus on fewer, more popular items, executed with excellence, and there's definitely room for us, I think, to eliminate some products, frankly, that add complexity, have a lot of waste and really don't add a whole lot to the experience” Starbucks’ new strategy – Do more with less | Food Business News. A multi-ingredient hand pie requiring specialized preparation could contradict simplification efforts.
Menu Marketing
Savory Hand Pie
A golden, flaky crust filled with creamy mozzarella, smoky gouda, Swiss chard, and chicken seasoned with aged cheese and cracked black pepper—finished with fluffy scrambled eggs and a touch of sage.
Brioche Sausage Rolls (kolache)
Chicken, broccoli rabe and fontina and TX jalapeno cheese
Consumer Reach (Breakfast Sausage)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 96%
Gen Z = 93%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 78%
Gen Z = 69%
Consumer Reach (Fontina)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 44%
Gen Z = 37%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 15%
Gen Z = 7%
Consumer Reach (Chicken)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 90%
Gen Z = 85%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 72%
Gen Z = 67%
Trends:
Gen Z Trends Alignment: Strong Compatibility
Customization and Familiarity Balance: Perfect for Gen Z's dual preferences. 39% prefer to stick with meals they're used to while 32% love to try new foods Gen Z Food Trends for Restaurants. Kolaches offer familiar comfort food with elevated ingredients (fontina, broccoli rabe) that provide novelty without alienating traditional preferences.
Portability and Social Media Potential: Excellent fit for lifestyle needs. Gen Z are more likely to opt for quicker service models and/or items they can enjoy on the go. The golden brioche exterior and colorful filling create Instagram-worthy appeal that Gen Z customers are likely to post about their dining experiences on their social media platforms Tracking the Latest Gen Z Food Trends in 2025.
Flavor Profile Opportunity: While not inherently "swalty," the jalapeño cheese could be positioned toward trending flavors. Although swicy has been around for a few years, it's poised for immense growth in 2025 Gen Z driving 2025 fast casual menu trends | Fast Casual, and the jalapeño adds the spicy element Gen Z craves.
Menu Innovation Within Constraints: This exemplifies the type of innovation Starbucks seeks. There is also hope that slimming down the menu will make it easier for Starbucks to squeeze in new limited-time offerings that stand out more How Starbucks Is Fundamentally Changing Its Menu In 2025 - Tasting Table. It's distinctive enough to create buzz while remaining operationally manageable.
Potential Challenges:
Regional Limitations: May not resonate equally in all markets, though this could be addressed through regional testing first.
Menu Marketing
Brioche Sausage Rolls (Kolache)
Tender chicken sausage wrapped in a buttery brioche roll, filled with broccoli rabe, melty fontina, and a bold kick of Texas jalapeño cheese.
Sous Vide Espresso Chocolate Pudding
Consumer Reach (Espresso)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 91%
Gen Z = 90%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 51%
Gen Z = 52%
Consumer Reach (Chocolate Pudding)
Know it:
Total U.S. = 96%
Gen Z = 93%
Enjoy it:
Total U.S. = 75%
Gen Z = 64%
Trends:
Gen Z Trends Alignment: Strong Compatibility
Premium Indulgence and Experience: This hits multiple Gen Z desires perfectly. They're also willing to pay more for experiential dining, with 42% of Americans more interested in experiential dining in 2025. The sous vide technique creates the type of multisensory trends that offer an "easy way to get us out of our routines and let us daydream" 6 food trends fashion needs to know about in 2025 | Vogue Business that Gen Z craves.
Social Media Gold: Exceptional Instagram potential. Gen Z customers are likely to post about their dining experiences on their social media platforms Tracking the Latest Gen Z Food Trends in 2025, and 70% of Gen Z respondents identify TikTok as their most valuable platform for food recommendations Gen Z & Millennials Food Trends 2025: Must-Knows. The glossy, perfectly textured pudding and sophisticated presentation would generate significant social content.
Coffee Culture Alignment: Bridges dessert and coffee perfectly. Gen Z doesn't just want to consume—they want to feel something when they do Gen Z Trends in the USA: What’s Shaping the Future of Food and Beverage in 2025 - Ai Palette. The espresso element connects to coffee shop culture while the chocolate provides comfort and indulgence that resonates with this generation's stress levels.
Functional Food Appeal: Aligns with growing trends. AP News refers to a growing interest in functional foods, or products people think will improve their mood or health Food Trends for 2025 Focus on Healthful Foods - Viral Trends - and Protein - - Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. The espresso provides caffeine functionality while chocolate offers mood-enhancement properties Gen Z values.
Premium Positioning: Supports pricing strategy. Niccol has drastically reduced the number of deals, resulting in a 40% decline in discounted transactions. He credited that for improving sales. Sous vide technique justifies premium pricing while delivering perceived value.
Potential Challenges:
Equipment Investment: Requires sous vide equipment, but this could be centralized production with distribution to stores.
Menu Marketing
Sous Vide Espresso Chocolate Pudding
Silky, slow-cooked chocolate pudding infused with bold espresso for a rich, velvety finish.