IHOP has unveiled its latest menu innovation, introducing a new lineup of biscuit-based items. This expansion builds on the chain’s recent menu evolution, which marked the largest change in its 65-year history. The new biscuit menu features creative breakfast sandwiches and other offerings designed to appeal to customers throughout the day.
The centerpiece of this menu update is the Breakfast Biscuit Sandwich. It consists of a buttermilk biscuit filled with two fried eggs, American cheese, bacon, and cheese sauce. Guests can choose sides like buttermilk pancakes, hash browns, or fresh fruit to complement their meal.
This biscuit-focused rollout reflects IHOP’s ongoing efforts to diversify its menu and cater to changing consumer preferences. The restaurant chain aims to provide flavorful options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, enhancing its appeal beyond traditional pancake offerings.
History of IHOP and Menu Development
IHOP’s journey from a small pancake house to a global breakfast icon spans over six decades. The company has consistently evolved its menu and marketing strategies to stay relevant in the competitive restaurant industry.
Origins of the Breakfast Giant
IHOP, originally known as International House of Pancakes, was founded in 1958 in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its pancakes and breakfast offerings. By 1960, the chain had expanded to 50 locations through franchising.
IHOP’s early success was built on a simple premise: serving delicious pancakes and breakfast foods all day long. This unique selling point helped the brand establish a strong foothold in the American dining landscape.
Expanding Beyond Breakfast
In the 1980s and 1990s, IHOP began to diversify its menu beyond breakfast items. The company introduced lunch and dinner options to attract customers throughout the day. This expansion included burgers, sandwiches, and entrees like chicken and steak.
IHOP’s menu evolution was a strategic move to increase same-store sales and compete with other casual dining chains. The company also renovated its restaurants to create a more modern dining atmosphere.
Innovation in Breakfast Offerings
IHOP has continued to innovate its breakfast menu, introducing new items to keep customers engaged. In 2018, the company temporarily rebranded as “IHOb” to promote its new line of burgers, generating significant media attention.
The chain has also embraced seasonal promotions and limited-time offers to drive traffic. For example, IHOP’s National Pancake Day, introduced in 2006, offers customers free pancakes while raising money for charity.
IHOP’s parent company, Dine Brands, has supported these innovations through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic partnerships. These efforts have helped IHOP maintain its position as a leader in the breakfast category while adapting to changing consumer preferences.
The Evolution of the Breakfast Menu
IHOP’s breakfast menu has undergone significant changes over the years, expanding beyond its iconic pancakes to include a diverse array of options. The restaurant chain has introduced new items and improved ingredients to meet evolving customer preferences.
From Pancakes to Breakfast Sandwiches
IHOP’s journey began with its famous pancakes, but the menu has since expanded to include hearty breakfast sandwiches. These handheld options cater to on-the-go diners seeking a quick, satisfying meal.
The breakfast sandwich lineup now features items like the Breakfast Biscuit Sandwich. This addition reflects IHOP’s commitment to offering more diverse morning options beyond traditional plated meals.
Eggs Benedict variations have also joined the menu, showcasing IHOP’s ability to adapt classic breakfast dishes to suit modern tastes.
Introduction of Savory Crepes and Burritos
IHOP’s menu evolution extended to include savory crepes and breakfast burritos. These items blend international flavors with American breakfast staples, appealing to customers looking for more adventurous options.
Savory crepes offer a lighter alternative to heavier breakfast plates, while still providing a satisfying meal. Breakfast burritos combine eggs, meats, and vegetables in a portable format, catering to time-pressed customers.
These additions demonstrate IHOP’s efforts to diversify its menu and attract a wider range of diners.
Commitment to Fresh Ingredients
IHOP has placed increased emphasis on using fresh, quality ingredients across its menu. This focus on ingredient quality aims to elevate the overall dining experience and meet growing consumer demand for healthier options.
The restaurant chain now offers choices that cater to both indulgent cravings and lighter appetites. This balance allows IHOP to maintain its comfort food reputation while appealing to health-conscious diners.
By prioritizing fresh ingredients, IHOP seeks to improve the taste and nutritional value of its dishes, setting itself apart in the competitive breakfast restaurant market.
Signature Breakfast Sandwich Innovations
IHOP has expanded its breakfast sandwich offerings with creative new options. The chain now features biscuit-based sandwiches, eggs benedict variations, and handheld burrito and bowl options to cater to evolving customer tastes.
The Rise of the Breakfast Biscuit Sandwich
IHOP introduced a new Biscuits Menu featuring buttermilk biscuit sandwiches. The Breakfast Biscuit Sandwich includes two fried eggs, American cheese, bacon, and cheese sauce on a buttermilk biscuit. This hearty option comes with a side dish.
For a limited time, IHOP offered promotional pricing on these sandwiches. Customers could get a breakfast biscuit sandwich with a side for $7, or add a coffee or soda for $9.
The chain also rolled out a Chicken Biscuit Sandwich variant. These new items aim to satisfy guests looking for portable, filling breakfast options.
Eggs Benedicts and Biscuits Menu
IHOP’s menu evolution included the addition of new Eggs Benedict varieties. This classic breakfast dish got a fresh twist to appeal to different tastes.
The Biscuits Menu expanded beyond sandwiches to incorporate eggs benedict-inspired creations. This move combines the popularity of buttermilk biscuits with the indulgence of eggs benedict.
IHOP’s International Bank of Pancake rewards program integrated these new items. Members can redeem PanCoins for free biscuits on The Stack Market, encouraging customers to try the new menu options.
Variations of Breakfast Burritos and Bowls
IHOP diversified its handheld breakfast options with new burrito and bowl variations. These items cater to customers seeking convenient, customizable meals.
Breakfast burritos offer a portable option filled with classic morning ingredients. Bowls provide a utensil-friendly alternative for those preferring a deconstructed approach to their breakfast.
These additions reflect IHOP’s effort to provide choices beyond traditional pancakes and platters. By incorporating popular breakfast trends, the chain aims to attract a wider range of customers throughout the day.
IHOP’s Sweet and Savory Selection
IHOP’s menu showcases a delightful array of sweet and savory options, from fruity pancakes to hearty sandwiches. The restaurant chain balances traditional favorites with innovative creations to satisfy diverse palates.
Balancing Berries and Bacon
IHOP’s menu artfully combines sweet berries with savory hickory-smoked bacon. Customers can enjoy pancakes topped with fresh strawberries alongside crispy bacon strips.
The restaurant also offers mixed berry compotes as toppings for waffles and French toast. For those seeking a heartier option, IHOP’s bacon-loaded breakfast sandwiches provide a satisfying blend of smoky and sweet flavors.
Seasonal specials often feature unique berry and bacon combinations, such as blueberry-bacon pancakes or raspberry-glazed bacon as a side dish.
From Classic Pancakes to Cinn-A-Stack Creations
IHOP’s pancake selection ranges from timeless buttermilk stacks to inventive Cinn-A-Stack creations. The classic buttermilk pancakes remain a menu staple, loved for their fluffy texture and golden-brown exterior.
Cinn-A-Stack pancakes offer a cinnamon roll-inspired twist, layered with cinnamon spread and cream cheese icing. This innovative dish bridges the gap between breakfast and dessert.
Other creative pancake options include:
- New York Cheesecake
- Cupcake
- Mexican Churro
IHOP also introduced “Pancoins” – silver dollar-sized pancakes perfect for sharing or as a side dish.
Innovative Hand-Crafted Melts and Fresh Salads
IHOP extends its culinary expertise beyond breakfast with a range of hand-crafted melts and fresh salads. The melts feature grilled sandwiches with gooey cheese and various fillings, catering to lunch and dinner crowds.
Popular melt options include:
- Philly Cheese Steak
- Ham & Cheese
- Patty Melt
For health-conscious diners, IHOP offers fresh salads with crisp greens, colorful vegetables, and protein options like grilled chicken or crispy chicken. These salads provide a lighter alternative while maintaining the restaurant’s commitment to flavor and variety.
Customizable dressings and toppings allow guests to tailor their salads to personal preferences, ensuring a satisfying meal for all tastes.
Leveraging Local Tastes and Trends
IHOP adapts its menu to reflect regional preferences and incorporate local flavors. This strategy allows the chain to connect with customers across diverse markets while maintaining its core breakfast identity.
Adopting Regional Flavors
IHOP tailors its offerings to suit local palates in different regions. In the South, the restaurant introduces dishes with a Southern twist, incorporating ingredients like grits and country ham. The Midwest sees heartier options with more meat and potato-based breakfast items. On the coasts, IHOP features lighter fare with fresh seafood additions to appeal to health-conscious diners.
This approach helps IHOP stand out in competitive markets. By offering region-specific menu items, the chain creates a sense of familiarity and local connection for customers.
Strawberries and Southern Charm
Natchez, Mississippi, known as the “biscuit capital of the world,” inspired IHOP to create a fresh strawberries and cream biscuit. This menu item combines the town’s biscuit-making tradition with locally sourced strawberries.
The dish exemplifies IHOP’s commitment to incorporating regional tastes. It features a flaky, Southern-style biscuit topped with sweet strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. This creation not only pays homage to local culinary traditions but also introduces IHOP customers to flavorful items rooted in regional culture.
Enhancements to Service and Accessibility
IHOP has expanded its off-premise options and embraced virtual brands to meet evolving customer needs. These changes aim to improve accessibility and convenience for guests seeking IHOP’s signature menu items beyond the traditional dine-in experience.
Boosting Off-Premise Dining Options
IHOP has significantly enhanced its off-premise dining capabilities. The chain now offers curbside pickup at many locations, allowing customers to order online and collect their meals without leaving their vehicles.
Drive-thru options have also been introduced at select restaurants, catering to on-the-go diners. IHOP has optimized its packaging for takeout and delivery orders to maintain food quality during transit.
The company has partnered with major third-party delivery services to expand its reach. This move enables customers to enjoy IHOP’s menu items from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Introduction of Virtual Brands and Delivery
IHOP has launched virtual brands to diversify its offerings and appeal to different customer segments. These digital-only concepts operate out of existing IHOP kitchens but focus on specific menu categories or cuisines.
One such virtual brand is Thrilled Cheese, which specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and other cheesy comfort foods. This concept allows IHOP to tap into the growing demand for indulgent, delivery-friendly meals.
The company has also invested in its own delivery platform, reducing reliance on third-party services. This strategy aims to provide a more seamless ordering experience and maintain direct relationships with customers.
Marketing and Promotions
IHOP’s marketing efforts have focused on creative campaigns and enticing promotions to attract customers throughout the day. The restaurant chain has leveraged social media and innovative branding strategies to expand its appeal beyond breakfast.
Innovative Marketing Campaigns
IHOP’s “IHOb” campaign in 2018 generated significant buzz by temporarily changing the brand’s name to highlight its new burger offerings. This bold move attracted widespread attention and free media coverage, successfully positioning IHOP as more than just a breakfast spot. The company has continued to invest in technology and marketing to support menu evolution and attract new customers.
IHOP’s loyalty program, launched in 2024, has become a key part of its marketing strategy. The program rewards frequent customers and provides valuable data for targeted promotions. IHOP has also expanded its merchandise line, offering branded products to strengthen customer relationships beyond restaurant visits.
IHOPpy Hour and Special Deals
IHOP introduced “IHOPpy Hour” to boost sales during slower afternoon periods. This promotion features discounted menu items and specially priced beverages like strawberry lemonade and mango iced tea. The timing of IHOPpy Hour varies by location but typically runs from 2-5 PM on weekdays.
Special deals and limited-time offers are regularly promoted through IHOP’s social media channels and mobile app. These promotions often highlight new menu items or seasonal favorites. IHOP has also partnered with celebrities for promotional campaigns, such as the recent collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter to promote a new drink lineup in January 2025.
Looking Ahead: Future of IHOP’s Menu
IHOP continues to evolve its menu offerings to meet changing customer preferences and drive growth. The restaurant chain focuses on innovative dishes while maintaining its breakfast roots.
Sustaining Growth Through Menu Innovation
IHOP aims to expand beyond its traditional breakfast fare with new lunch and dinner options. The introduction of Ultimate Steakburgers showcases this strategy, featuring premium beef patties and toppings like a four-cheese crisp. Seafood dishes like fish and shrimp may see increased prominence to diversify the menu.
Buttermilk crispy chicken items could become a larger focus, appealing to those seeking alternatives to pancakes and eggs. IHOP’s parent company, Dine Brands Global, will likely push for continued menu experimentation to attract new customers and increase visit frequency among existing patrons.
Healthier and customizable options are expected to play a bigger role in future menu updates. This may include more plant-based proteins, gluten-free choices, and build-your-own meal concepts. IHOP will need to balance innovation with maintaining its core identity as a family-friendly breakfast destination.
