TGI Fridays, the famous restaurant and bar chain known for its happy hour and casual dining, is making a big comeback after facing bankruptcy. As part of its plan to win back customers, the company has launched 11 new menu items across its 85 U.S. locations. Prices start at just $5, aiming to offer great food and deals for everyone.
A Fresh Start with a New Menu
Last May, TGI Fridays cut 85% of its old menu and introduced a fresh, smaller menu filled with bold and tasty options. The new menu is designed to keep the fun and lively spirit that made TGI Fridays famous, while also updating the food to suit today’s tastes.
Ray Blanchette, the company’s CEO, said the new menu honors the chain’s roots with “bold, unapologetic food” that guests will love when they come together to celebrate.
Star Items to Watch For
One of the highlights is the upgraded mozzarella sticks, a snack that TGI Fridays helped popularize in the 1980s. The new version is served with three exciting sauce flavors, making this classic appetizer even better.
The chain is also introducing “Power Pour” cocktails — bigger, premium drinks made with fresh fruit and two-ounce pours of liquor, bringing a modern twist to TGI Fridays’ history as the world’s first cocktail bar.
Great Prices and Deals
Despite these upgrades, the prices remain friendly. The famous $5 happy hour specials are still available, including drinks and bar bites like the new mozzarella sticks.
There are also meal deals starting at just $9.99, which include an entree, side, and drink. Diners can choose from popular dishes such as:
- 6 oz Sirloin
- Friday’s Big Ribs
- Bacon Ranch Chicken Sandwich
- Crispy Chicken Fingers
- Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
- Whiskey-Glazed Chicken Slammers
- Buffalo Chicken Slammers
- Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Salmon
- Cheeseburger
Appealing to a New Generation
TGI Fridays is not only trying to bring back loyal fans but also attract younger diners, especially Gen Z and Millennials. Gen Z loves bold, unique flavours and quality ingredients, while Millennials, many of whom have families, look for fun places where they can enjoy a good meal and cocktails, and still bring their kids.
Blanchette said the new menu focuses on quality with fresh ingredients, hand-breading, and presentation that gives a “wow” factor — perfect for celebrations big and small.
Keeping the Fun Alive
TGI Fridays started as a singles bar and casual hangout spot for young adults, but over the years it has grown to welcome families and people of all ages. Now, it’s using social media and new marketing ideas to connect with customers in fresh ways instead of just traditional ads.
With its new menu, affordable prices, and focus on bold flavours and quality, TGI Fridays is making strong moves to modernize while still keeping the fun and celebration that made it famous. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the brand, this refreshed menu offers something exciting for everyone.