Gen Z and Millennials are Welcome at Bennigan’s

 

The welcome invitations having been sent out, now the stage is set let’s see if the hard work, customer focused, and timing are right for Bennigan’s to make a formidable come back. According to Steven Johnson enough time has elapsed that Bennigan’s comeback could very well be under way.

While Bennigan's may hold some nostalgic charm for older generations, it's important to acknowledge that the restaurant chain has faced challenges in recent years, including filing for bankruptcy in 2018. This, along with its traditional entrée weighted menu and dining experience, may not necessarily resonate with younger demographics like GenZ and Millennials who often seek.  It’s been just about long enough for both Gen Z and millennials to find it an interesting unique, inviting experience-driven concept.

However, there are some potential ways Bennigan's could adapt to better suit the preferences of these younger demographics:

1.        Modernize the menu and ambiance: Introduce healthier options, plant-based dishes, and cater to dietary restrictions. Millennials, in particular, are known for their health-conscious tendencies. Update the décor and atmosphere to create a more contemporary and inviting space.

2.        Embrace technology: Offer online ordering, delivery, and loyalty programs through user-friendly apps.

3.        Highlight social responsibility: Partner with local farms and businesses, source sustainable ingredients, and implement eco-friendly practices. Both GenZ and Millennials are concerned about environmental and social issues.

4.        Create a unique dining experience: Offer interactive events, themed nights, or live music to cater to the experience-seeking nature of these demographics.

There is no guarantee that Bennigan's would be successful in attracting GenZ and Millennials even with these changes. The restaurant industry is highly competitive, and it is crucial for any business to stay up-to-date with evolving consumer preferences and adapt accordingly. Here is what they are doing and it is a very good start. Let’s look:

Back in the day, Guests who know how to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day head to Bennigan’s to find their pot of gold! When it’s time for every leprechaun’s favorite holiday, it’s time to bring back the ever-popular Blarney Blast™ menu with creative cocktails and drink specials. This year’s specials include both new creations and returning favorites:

Emerald Isle Party Punch (new): Jim Beam Apple Bourbon, DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker, Midori Melon Liqueur, DeKuyper Blue Curacao, and Red Bull^®.

Irish Flag (new): Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, Stolichnaya Vodka, Midori Melon Liqueur, Dekuyper Blue Curacao, Finest Call Peach Purée, Finest Call Piña Colada Mix, and Finest Call Premium Lemon Sour

Blarney Stone Kiss (new): Ole Smoky Tennessee Peach Whiskey, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, Finest Call Premium Lime Sour, Finest Call Peach Puree, Monin Stone Fruit syrup, and Red Bull^® Yellow edition.

Tableside Irish Coffee: Our classic signature cocktails! Warm and comforting, with a distinct whiskey flavor. Made with house-brewed coffee, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey and finished with fresh lightly whipped cream and a sugar rim. Sweetened to taste.

Samuel Adams^® Boston Lager: Bold, rich and complex. The unmistakable character of this brew has become an American original.

a.       Cupcake Chardonnay: Cupcake Chardonnay is crafted with grapes from California’s esteemed Monterey County. This barrel-fermented Chardonnay achieves a rich, creamy wine with flavors of apple, lemon, vanilla and a hint of toasted almond.

b.       Foodies wearing the green will find some of their favorite dishes along with new scratch-made, Irish-inspired choices, including:

c.       Guinness^® Glazed Pub Shrimp (new): Succulent shrimp hand-dipped in our secret tempura batter recipe, fried to golden brown and tossed in our made-from-scratch Guinness^® Served with celery sticks and extra Guinness^® Glaze for dipping.

d.       Reuben Burger (new): A juicy half-pound burger layered with chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing and served on toasted Rye bread. Served with Homestyle French fries seasoned with sea salt.

e.       Finn’s Beer Battered Fish and Chips: Tender white fish fillets hand-crafted in a delicious beer batter. Lightly fried to crispy and golden brown. Served with Homestyle French Fries, kicked-up coleslaw and jalapeno tartar sauce.

f.         Irish Cream Cheesecake: A chocolate lover’s dream! Bennigan’s famous New York Style Cheesecake, covered with house made Bailey’s Irish Cream ganache and topped with shamrock candy sprinkles.

Bennigan’s Chairman & CEO Paul Mangiamele, stated, “Our signature Blarney Blast™ menu shows our love for St. Paddy’s Day, and we love how our guests have found such a strong connection with it and our brand,” …. “With our Legendary atmosphere, chef-driven Irish food and specialty cocktails, Bennigan’s fans can celebrate the good health, fun and fortune with the ones they love at the restaurant they love!”

As always, each Bennigan’s location will feature green beer, Corned Beef and Cabbage and Beer Cheese Soup during the week of St. Patrick’s Day while supplies last. These are limited-time offers run from March 5 through April 2. Both beverage and food item prices vary by location.

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