Ever fancied yourself a bit of a food detective? Behind the glossy menus and familiar favourites at your local chains lurk some truly brilliant off-menu treasures.
These hush-hush items aren't advertised but are happily made when requested by those in the know. Ready to order like a proper insider?
1. The Monster Mac At McDonald's
Not for the faint-hearted or small-stomached! This beast takes the regular Big Mac and supercharges it with a whopping four extra beef patties.
Staff might raise an eyebrow, but most Maccies will stack this towering creation if you're willing to pay for the extra patties. Perfect for those days when a regular Big Mac just won't cut it.
2. Nando's Mediterranean Salad
Fancy a lighter Nando's option that still packs their signature peri-peri punch? This off-menu gem combines their grilled chicken with a fresh Mediterranean salad base.
Simply request a side salad topped with your choice of chicken and ask for olives, feta and extra peppers. The staff are usually happy to create this refreshing alternative to their standard menu offerings.
3. Starbucks' Apple Pie Frappuccino
Craving something that tastes like autumn in a cup? This sweet treat mimics Britain's favourite pudding in sippable form. Order a Vanilla Frappuccino with apple juice instead of milk, add cinnamon dolce syrup and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
The baristas might be puzzled initially, but the result is worth the slightly complicated order.
4. KFC's Triple Down
Remember the legendary Double Down? This monstrous creation takes that concept one step further with an extra chicken fillet sandwiched between the original two. Three crispy chicken fillets serve as the 'bun' with cheese and bacon tucked between each layer.
You'll need to pay for an extra fillet and request the special assembly, but most KFC staff are game for the challenge.
5. Wagamama's Chilli Beef Ramen
Spice enthusiasts, rejoice! This fiery concoction isn't listed anywhere but delivers a proper kick to your taste buds. Ask for the standard beef ramen with extra chilli oil, chilli sambal, and sliced fresh chillis on top.
The kitchen is typically accommodating with these heat-boosting modifications, creating a bowl that'll have you reaching for your water glass repeatedly.
6. Greggs' Sausage, Bean And Cheese Melt Toastie
The hybrid pastry that dreams are made of hasn't officially hit Greggs' counters yet, but those with insider knowledge can snag this beauty. Request a regular sausage, bean and cheese melt, but ask if they'll pop it in the toastie maker instead of the oven.
Not every branch will oblige, but when they do, you'll enjoy a crispy, gooey masterpiece that combines two Greggs classics.
7. Subway's Pizza Sub
Missing this retro favourite that disappeared from UK menus years ago? The good news is you can still get it if you know exactly what to ask for. Request Italian herbs and cheese bread with marinara sauce, pepperoni, and double cheese, then ask for it to be toasted.
Many Subway staff remember this discontinued classic and will happily recreate it, bringing back that nostalgic pizza-sandwich hybrid experience.
