• by Teresa Buyikian , January 9, 2024

Shake Shack is jumping on the international flavor trend with new limited-time-only menu items. Three of the four are “swicy,” meaning sweet-and-spicy-flavored, while the other leans toward an umami taste. All four items are available today via the Shake Shack app and nationwide beginning Jan. 12.

On the swicy side, the Korean Style Chicken Sandwich contains chicken breast coated in a spicy and sweet Gochujang (red chili paste) glaze, sesame seeds and white kimchi slaw, served on a toasted potato bun. There’s also  the Spicy Korean BBQ Fries, with or without cheese, with kimchi seasoning and served with a side of Korean BBQ sauce.

Based in Portland, Oregon, Choi’s small-batch kimchi is produced using a process that’s been passed down for generations. Shake Shack says it worked closely with Choi’s owner Chong Choi to create an exclusive kimchi blend for the white kimchi slaw in the Korean Style Fried Chicken Sandwich.

For those who crave more umami (salty and savory) flavor, the chain has a Korean BBQ Burger, made with savory and salty Korean BBQ sauce on a 100% Angus beef cheeseburger with crispy sweet onions and scallions, served on a potato bun.

The new Shake Shack Korean-inspired menu items are in line with industry taste predictions for 2024. A recent report from the National Restaurant Association noted Americas  will continue to crave hot and spicy dishes, along with a desire for international-inspired comfort food.