The Iconic Menu Item
Since the 1980s, IHOP’s Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo, which included fruit-topped pancakes, crepes, French toast or Belgian waffles, eggs and bacon or sausage links, was a favourite. Marketing executive Andy Patise devised its snappy name, which was originally launched in a memorable TV commercial that encouraged dining guests to enjoy the dish’s playfulness.
Historical Context
The Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo has always been more than a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of when dining out was fun and laughing. This combo, launched when IHOP was becoming the top breakfast destination, was a guest favourite with its comfort food-inspired strawberry, blueberry compote, seasonal mixed berry and cinnamon apple toppings, all free from high fructose corn syrup.
| Year Launched | 1980s |
|---|---|
| Last Seen on Menu | 2020 |
| Return Date | January 9, 2023 |
| Discontinued Announcement Date | January 8, 2024 |
Return and Limited Availability
The Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo returned from January 8 to February 19, 2024, at participating locations for $7 to celebrate IHOP’s 65th anniversary. A Pasadena, California, spectacular celebrated the combo’s return and won over long-time fans. The euphoria was short-lived when IHOP discontinued this breakfast staple.
| Location of Extravaganza | Pasadena, California |
|---|---|
| Return Duration | January 8, 2024 – February 19, 2024 |
| Pricing | Starting at $7 |
Combo Components and Customization
Over 80% of IHOP breakfast orders were customised, including the Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo. The combo includes fruit-topped pancakes, crepes, French toast or Belgian waffles, two eggs and two bacon strips or sausage links, offering it a varied option for sweet, savoury or both tastes.
| Combo Includes | Fruit-Topped Pancakes, Crepes, French Toast, Belgian Waffle, 2 eggs, Bacon/Sausage |
|---|---|
| Customization Rate | 80%+ of Orders Customized |
Promotional Efforts
IHOP offered bonus PanCoins for repeat orders with the International Bank of Pancakes digital rewards program during its limited-time return. Two combo orders received 10 PanCoins, while four combo orders received 25. This encouraged IHOP fans to return and stay loyal.
| PanCoins Promotion | Order 2 Combos: 10 Bonus PanCoins, Order 4 Combos: 25 Bonus PanCoins |
|---|
Challenges and Future Speculations
IHOP adapts to evolving guest tastes, even when the Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo is gone. The company, which has led breakfast offerings for over 65 years with 1,794 locations worldwide as of September 30, 2023, explores new menu items and concepts, leaving opportunity for the reintroduction of historical favourites like The Pancizza and Pancake Sliders.
| Company Age | 65+ Years |
|---|---|
| Global Locations | 1,794 as of September 30, 2023 |
Marketing and Guest Experience
IHOP’s marketing strategies prioritise joy and unique eating experiences, highlighting breakfast items that 75% of consumers order. The Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo showed IHOP’s commitment to serving customers high-quality breakfast selections that make each visit a celebration of flavours and fun.
FAQ
What came in the Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo?
The meal includes fruit-topped pancakes, crepes, French toast or Belgian waffles, two eggs and two bacon strips or sausage links.
When was the Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity Combo last available?
It was offered from January 8 to February 19, 2024, before being discontinued.
Why was the combo discontinued?
IHOP discontinued the combo to innovate and offer guest-preferred menu items.
Can I still get PanCoins for ordering the combo?
The combo deal for bonus PanCoins was only available during its last availability.
Was the combo available for takeout?
The combo was only available for dine-in at participating locations.
