3 Wendy’s Menu Items We Want To See Come Back

Wendy’s has had a busy year, in which there have been a lot of changes. Some of these have been for the better (its switch back to yellow packaging was embraced by some customers, even if others weren’t entirely pleased); some of these have been for the worse (we’re still wondering what happened to that spicy chicken sandwich). As it looks forward to a new future, though, it’s also not forgotten to look back: It recently remounted its fan-favorite Pretzel Pub Burger, following a public vote from customers on which items they wanted to see return to its menu. 

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We’re certain that Wendy’s isn’t struggling for any ideas about what else it could bring back. But just in case it is, we thought we’d take a wander down memory lane to highlight a couple of menu items it could consider giving a reboot. Here are a couple of options we’d love to see have another spin. 

Carolina Classic

First introduced in 1994, the Carolina Classic was Wendy’s take on North Carolina barbecue – and it may not have been as authentic as the sandwiches you’d find at standalone BBQ spots, but it definitely stood out on its menu. The Carolina Classic took a Wendy’s beef patty and topped it with chili, coleslaw, and mustard. After first dropping in Rockingham, NC, and expanding to Charlotte, it was such a success that it got a national run. 

The Carolina Classic was subsequently discontinued in 1995, only to be revived at the end of the 2010s. Since then, it hasn’t been seen again. We think it’s time for one more roll of the dice on this one, though. Yeah, it’s messy – but the balance of sharpness, savoriness, sweetness, and crunch…I’m into it. 

Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich

Back in 1991, Wendy’s went fancy. Well, as fancy as the chain gets, at least. This was the year it dropped its Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich, a breaded chicken breast topped with smoky ham, Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard, all served in a Kaiser roll. It was a take on Chicken Cordon Bleu, in portable form. 

This sandwich enjoyed some brief success and was popular enough to make a comeback, but since the early ‘90s, it’s largely been forgotten about. But why, we ask? Chicken and bacon have become a combination seen absolutely everywhere, but chicken and ham? With Swiss? Delicious. 

Bacon Portabella Mushroom Melt

The Bacon Portabella Mushroom Melt started its life back in the 1990s as a Bacon Mushroom Melt – but in the 2010s, Wendy’s levelled it up. It subsequently became a portabella-stuffed affair, with bacon, cheese, and a cheddar cheese sauce tying everything together. Launching in late 2012, it enjoyed an initial run in the US before relaunching the following year with a new, improved bun. 

The Bacon Portabella Mushroom Melt has since been absent from US menus – but in Canada, it’s become a seasonal, limited-time favorite. Well, Wendy’s, the rest of the world likes mushrooms too. Bring this one back for another spin in the US (and throw it over to Wendy’s UK while you’re at it, so I can try it). You know you want to.