Are Secret Menus a Thing? Debunking the Myth

Secret menus, those mysterious hidden items on the menu, have been a source of fascination and confusion for many dining enthusiasts. In reality, these secret menus are often more of a myth than a reality. This article aims to separate fact from fiction, exploring why secret menus are not as common as one might think, and explaining how these secret menu 'hacks' are just combinations of what’s already on the official menu.

The Inu0027n Out Burger Exception

The only notable mention of a secret menu is in the context of the western U.S. fast-food burger chain, Inu0027n Out Burger. Due to its very basic menu, the so-called 'secret menu' is simply a permutation of the items on the publicly available menu. These permutations are not secret in the truest sense; they are merely alternative ways to order familiar items. For example, ordering multiple McFlurries and stack them to create a unique creation may be a fun ordering trick, but it's not a 'secret' item as such.

The Myth of Secret Menus

For the most part, there are no secret menus. Any so-called secret menu 'hacks' are typically just ordering multiple items from the menu and combining them. For example, ordering several McDoubles and several McChicken sandwiches and combining them could be called a 'McBangbang,' but it’s not a 'secret item.' When you order these items separately and then combine them, or when a cashier recognizes your request, it’s simply ordering several of two different items and combining them.

Fun Experiences and Hidden Meals

There are, however, some unique and fun dining experiences. For instance, there's a story about a cruise ship where the menu in one of the five restaurants was visually invisible until you "painted" it with water, causing it to reveal itself. This creative and humorous way of displaying the menu might sound like a secret menu to those not in the know, but it's more of a visual novelty rather than a hidden item on the menu. Such experiences add an element of surprise and fun to dining, much like the Ruby Rodd character from the movie The Fifth Element might have described it!

Conclusion

In conclusion, secret menus, as commonly perceived, are a myth in modern fast food and dining establishments. Ordering alternative combinations of existing menu items can be fun and creative, but it’s not a secret menu in the true sense of the term. The enjoyment comes from the creativity and fun in ordering, not from discovering hidden items. So, the next time you hear about a secret menu, remember that it might just be a fun ordering trick or a cute way to display a menu. Enjoy your dining experiences and the creative combinations for what they are!