Famous fast-food chain unveils bold new menu to win back customers

Expanding its menu from basic dishes to chef-curated creations may seem like an unexpected choice for a fast-casual restaurant.

However, when aiming to attract a bigger audience, range is key if a chain needs to appeal to more taste buds. 

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A slowdown in consumer spending and inflation have started to affect even the most popular restaurant chains, causing many to close locations due to underperformance and sales declines. 

Related: McDonald’s brings back unexpected breakfast item after 6 years

Companies tend to make this move as a last resort to mitigate financial strain and reduce costs, so no more unnecessary debt accumulates. 

However, one restaurant chain made a strategic move that has worked in its favor, as it has managed to turn around its declining numbers.

Noodles & Company unveils new menu items.

Image source: Shutterstock

Noodles & Company reveals exciting new menu additions

Noodles & Company has partnered with Food Network to release four new noodle-based dishes, renowned as the network’s favorites.

These new entrées were hand-picked by Food Network and include Basil Pesto Cavatappi, Buffalo Chicken Ranch Mac & Cheese, Rigatoni Rosa with Parmesan Chicken, and Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi.

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“We’re excited to introduce guests to a lineup of reimagined favorites and bold new flavors that showcase our culinary expertise,” said Noodles & Company SVP of Marketing Stephen Kennedy in a press release. 

“It’s an honor to have four of our most popular noodle bowls selected by the experts at Food Network as ‘Food Network Favorites.’ These dishes promise to deliver comfort, indulgence, and creativity in every bowl — just as we always strive to do,” he added.

Noodles & Company’s new dishes build on previous efforts

To strengthen its business, Noodles & Company  (NDLS)  initiated a menu revamp in March, adding new dishes and improving fan favorites to better meet consumer demands and attract new audiences. 

Related: Popular fast-food burger chain to open first store in new market

This menu transformation resonated well with consumers, driving an increase in sales during the first quarter of 2025. Total revenues were up 2% compared to the prior year, and same-store sales increased 4.4% system-wide.

However, in May 2025, Noodles & Company shared plans to close some of its more than 450 restaurants, including approximately 13 to 17 company-owned and four franchise locations in 2025. The chain attributed these closures to higher food costs and increased marketing expenses.

This new round of menu improvements in partnership with Food Network might be just what Noodles & Company needs to prevent further restaurant closures.

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