Perkins is set to open its flagship restaurant in Orlando, Florida, on March 19, 2025. This new location aims to modernize the brand with a revamped menu and contemporary decor, as Perkins President Toni Ronayne explained. The updated menu will include both classic Americana dishes and exciting new offerings such as boba drinks and cocktails, appealing to evolving consumer tastes.
Having previously undergone a rebranding, Perkins is keen on refreshing its image, including its restaurant layouts. The new flagship space, featuring 3,500 square feet, boasts contemporary aesthetics like bright lighting and an outdoor patio, which have been well-received by franchisees.
"This upscale design has resonated well with our target market," noted Ronayne in a message to Restaurant Dive, signaling strong interest among franchisees for similar enhancements.
The culinary revamp is led by Mindy Armstrong, vice president of menu innovation at Perkins. The restaurant will provide signature items like omelets and build-your-own breakfasts while introducing new categories like shareable appetizers and burgers. On the beverage side, the menu now features Boba Chillers, craft cocktails, and options for younger guests, aiming to cater to a broader demographic and enhance the dining experience during brunch and dinner hours.
The addition of alcoholic drinks reflects a growing demand from customers for enhanced beverage offerings. Ronayne mentioned that cocktails, including frozen margaritas and specialty blends, were a natural progression for the brand, which has previously offered limited alcohol selections.
In a challenging environment for casual and family dining chains, Perkins’ strategic overhaul focuses on modernizing its offerings and restaurant experience. This effort comes as competitors face struggles; for instance, Denny’s closed numerous locations, while other chains saw declines in same-store sales.
By embracing a blend of traditional and contemporary elements, Perkins seeks to recapture market share in a competitive landscape, positioning itself for growth as it navigates the changing dining preferences of its customers.
Leave a Reply