Fast food is a beloved treat for many, offering a perfect mix of convenience, affordability, and mouthwatering flavors. However, it’s easy to fall into the habit of ordering the same thing every time. Why not spice things up with a creative menu hack on your next visit?
Menu hacks are clever ways to customize your order, often resulting in unique or off-menu items. These can include discontinued favorites, secret creations by kitchen staff, or simple combinations of existing menu offerings.
Ready to think outside the box? We’ve compiled a list of ten inventive menu hacks from popular fast food spots. Whether it’s a unique sandwich, upgraded fries, a custom drink, or a decadent dessert, these hacks will introduce you to flavors you never knew you needed.
10. Wendy’s Meat Cube/Grand Slam Burger

Our first menu hack is a hidden gem from Wendy’s. While Wendy’s is known for its diverse burger selection, there’s a secret, specialty burger you can request. This burger goes by three different names, so be precise when ordering. It’s referred to as the Meat Cube, Dave’s Hot ‘n Juicy 1-lb Quadruple, or the Grand Slam Burger.
What makes this burger unique? The Meat Cube features four quarter-pound beef patties, adding up to a full pound of meat. Served on a classic Wendy’s bun, it includes all the standard toppings, such as cheese. To order, simply mention its name. If the staff is unfamiliar, describe it as a 3/4-pound burger with an additional patty and slice of cheese.
9. McDonald’s Apple Pie McFlurry

Next up is a creative mashup of two beloved desserts. McDonald’s is synonymous with fast food, offering a wide-ranging menu that includes burgers, chicken, fish, sides, and iconic sweets. For this hack, we’re blending two of their famous desserts into one unforgettable treat.
The Apple Pie McFlurry is exactly as it sounds—a whole apple pie blended into a classic McFlurry. Enjoy it quickly to savor the perfect mix of warm pie and cool ice cream before it melts. This combination of flavors is a match made in dessert heaven.
If you’re craving a dessert that combines both hot and cold elements, nothing feels more quintessentially American than McDonald’s Apple Pie McFlurry. While you can experiment with other pie flavors, the Apple Pie McFlurry remains the crowd favorite.
8. In-N-Out Animal-Style Fries and Burger

In-N-Out has earned a reputation for serving some of the tastiest burgers and fries in the fast food industry. Many regard their burgers as top-tier, but for those looking to elevate their meal, ordering items “animal style” is the way to go.
Animal-style fries are arguably In-N-Out’s most famous menu hack and one of the most iconic on our list. To achieve the “animal style” designation, the fries are generously topped with:
- Melted cheese
- In-N-Out spread
- Grilled onions
These fries are so hearty they could easily stand as a full meal. You can also opt for an animal-style burger, which layers the same delicious toppings onto a juicy patty. Unlike some hacks, this one is widely recognized, so you won’t get any puzzled looks from the staff when ordering.
7. McDonald’s Land, Sea, and Air Burger

Next on our list is a unique creation from McDonald’s, the undisputed leader in fast food. This hack is… well, let’s just say it’s not for everyone. Ever dreamed of combining the best of three worlds into one sandwich? That’s exactly what this unconventional burger aims to do.
The Land, Sea, and Air Burger merges three iconic McDonald’s sandwiches. The “land” portion is represented by a Big Mac or McDouble, the “sea” by a Filet-O-Fish, and the “air” by a McChicken patty (despite chickens not being known for their flying abilities).
To assemble this beast of a sandwich, place the fish and chicken patties inside your Big Mac. Take a big bite and experience a medley of flavors in one go. While some employees might recognize the Land, Sea, and Air Burger, it’s safer to build it yourself using the three separate sandwiches. Just make sure to have a drink handy to help it all go down smoothly.
6. Burger King Frings

Menu hacks don’t always need to be elaborate. Sometimes, they’re born from a simple request. Burger King is famous for its crispy French fries, but its onion rings also hold a special place in the hearts of fast food lovers (especially since onion rings are rare in the fast food world). This often leaves customers torn when deciding on their combo sides.
Should you go for the fries? The onion rings? Or both? The answer is clear—get both! You can easily request a half-and-half mix of fries and onion rings. While some locations call this combo “frings,” others might not recognize the term, so it’s best to specify your order clearly.
To make it easy, just ask for half fries and half onion rings, and savor the best of both worlds. Don’t forget to dip your fries into the tangy onion ring sauce for an extra flavor boost. With this hack, you’ll never have to choose between fries and onion rings again.
5. Starbucks Dirty Chai

If you’re at Starbucks, chances are you’re seeking a caffeine boost to power through your day or night. Why stick to plain drip coffee when you can try something more exciting? Chai is a smooth, flavorful, and easy-to-enjoy beverage, but it lacks the caffeine kick of coffee. That’s where a clever menu hack comes in—get the best of both worlds!
Transform your Starbucks experience by ordering a Dirty Chai. Simply add a shot of Espresso to a classic Chai Latte. While the Chai Latte is already on the menu, the addition of Espresso elevates it to a caffeine powerhouse. For those extra-tough days, consider doubling up with a second Espresso shot. A Dirty Chai not only delivers the energy boost you crave but also comes with a host of nutrients and health benefits.
4. Arby’s Bacon, Beef, and Cheddar

Arby’s is famous for its meats—there’s no denying that. But with so many options, how do you decide which one to pick?
Arby’s offers a variety of sandwiches, from Market Fresh options to their iconic Roast Beef. Among their classics, the Beef ‘n Cheddar Sandwich stands out. It features tender roast beef, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, and Arby’s signature sauce, all served on a soft onion bun.
This sandwich is a top pick for many Arby’s enthusiasts, myself included. Elevate it by adding crispy bacon! The bacon introduces a rich layer of flavor and a satisfying crunch, turning an already fantastic sandwich into something extraordinary.
Arby’s staff will gladly customize your order—just ask for a Beef ‘n Cheddar with bacon. Trust me, it’s a game-changer you won’t regret trying.
3. Starbucks Cinnamon Roll Frappe

Another indulgent Starbucks creation makes our list. While Starbucks offers a vast array of drinks, the Cinnamon Roll Frappuccino isn’t officially on the menu. This drink is designed to mimic the taste of a warm, gooey cinnamon roll (think Cinnabon). Be prepared to explain this hack carefully to your barista.
Start by ordering a vanilla bean crème Frappuccino. Then, ask for two or three pumps of Starbucks’ Cinnamon Dolce Syrup, depending on your preference. The result is a sweet, cinnamon-infused treat that’ll transport you straight to a mall food court. Most Starbucks locations can whip this up, as long as they have Cinnamon Dolce Syrup in stock.
Starbucks is a treasure trove of menu hacks, allowing you to craft unique drinks like a Cake Batter Frappuccino, Candy Cane, or even Butterbeer. If your dream drink isn’t on the menu, why not invent your own hack? You might just stumble upon the next viral sensation.
2. Taco Bell Cheesarito

Taco Bell is famous for its inventive menu items. From the Crunchwrap to the Cheesy Gordita Crunch, Mexican Pizza, and Quesarita, the chain has a history of culinary creativity. They’re always dreaming up new offerings for their fans, even introducing the concept of “Fourth Meal.” Thanks to this innovative spirit, their staff is well-versed in crafting unique creations from standard ingredients. The Cheesarito is a prime example.
Despite its fun name, the Cheesarito is a simple yet satisfying snack by Taco Bell standards. It’s also a value menu item, making it one of the most affordable options on our list. This tasty treat features melted cheese, scallions, and Taco Bell sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect as a light snack or a side to complement your tacos, the Cheesarito might just become your new fast food obsession.
1. Chick-Fil-A Root Beer Float

Chick-Fil-A is a top choice for fast food enthusiasts, known for its focused menu centered around fried chicken. This simplicity ensures nearly every item is a hit. One standout hack is their root beer float, made by adding a scoop (or more) of their creamy Ice Dream to a cup of root beer.
Make sure to skip the ice! The Chick-Fil-A root beer float is a delightful treat, thanks to their rich and smooth Ice Dream. While they didn’t create the root beer float, they’ve certainly elevated it. The staff at Chick-Fil-A will gladly assist you in crafting this delicious menu hack.