Shake Shack adds a new side dish for the first time ever—and it’s not what you’d expect
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For years, Shake Shack fans have come to expect the familiar comforts of the chain’s signature offerings—juicy burgers, creamy shakes, and those golden crinkle-cut fries that never go out of style.
Since its early days as a humble hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park, the brand has built a loyal following by sticking to what works and keeping its menu refreshingly simple.
But this summer, something new is happening.
For the first time in its history, Shake Shack is making a bold change to its side offerings.
And from the looks of it, this crispy newcomer may just earn a spot beside the fries as a fan favorite.
A bold move from a brand that rarely changes
Shake Shack has never been one to make frequent menu updates.
Since its start as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park, the brand has taken a slow and careful approach to expansion, prioritizing quality and consistency.
That’s why the arrival of a new side dish—especially one as specific as fried pickles—is turning heads.
It’s more than just a seasonal feature.
It’s a sign that Shake Shack is listening to customer cravings and ready to shake things up.
Also read: Burger King in court—are fast food photos too good to be true?
What makes them different
These aren’t your average bar pickles.
Shake Shack’s Fried Pickles are made with thick-cut dill slices, marinated in a house brine and coated in a lightly seasoned batter before being fried to golden crispness.
Each order is served with Shack Ranch, a house-made buttermilk-based dipping sauce that adds a creamy, herb-filled counterpoint to the pickles’ sharp tang.
The flavor is bold but balanced—perfect for pickle lovers, and a fun, flavorful twist for curious first-timers.
How to enjoy them
Shake Shack recommends trying the Fried Pickles on their own, but there are plenty of pairing options for those looking to build the perfect summer meal:
Also read: Shake Shack unveils its summer menu—here’s when you can try their new flavors
Customers asked—and Shake Shack listened
The move wasn’t random.
According to the company, the idea came from last year’s summer BBQ menu, which featured fried pickles as a topping.
One-third of customers who tried them gave glowing feedback, prompting Shake Shack to bring the item back—but this time as a standalone side.
The pickles are available for a limited time, with prices starting at $3.99.
A growing trend in fast food
Shake Shack isn’t the only name exploring this tangy side trend.
Burger King recently released its own fried pickles—served as spears with ranch dressing—suggesting that this Southern favorite is enjoying a national spotlight.
Still, Shake Shack’s version may set the standard with its attention to detail, fresh ingredients, and signature dipping sauce.
Source: Instagram / shakeshack
Also read: Fast food, fast farewell to funds? These 3 chains are draining your wallet!
The pickle’s rise to stardom
Pickles have long been a go-to burger topping, but in recent years they’ve made the jump from supporting role to main event.
From upscale restaurants to local diners, fried pickles are having a moment—and Shake Shack’s inclusion of them as a full menu item only cements their status.
As Shake Shack continues to evolve, many are wondering what other menu surprises could be next.
If fried pickles are a hit, could more inventive sides follow?
Only time will tell.
For now, one thing is clear: Shake Shack’s fries are no longer alone on the plate!
Read next: Will Shake Shack be serving up a shack in your city? Here’s what you need to know!
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Are you a fried pickle fan? Have you already given Shake Shack’s version a try—or do you have a favorite way to pair your Shack meal? Drop your comments below and share your tips, taste tests, and honest opinions. Whether you’re a loyal Shack regular or just love a new twist on an old classic, this summer side might be worth a bite!
Since its early days as a humble hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park, the brand has built a loyal following by sticking to what works and keeping its menu refreshingly simple.
But this summer, something new is happening.
For the first time in its history, Shake Shack is making a bold change to its side offerings.
And from the looks of it, this crispy newcomer may just earn a spot beside the fries as a fan favorite.
Shake Shack is spicing up its summer menu with a rare new addition—its first-ever side dish beyond the classic crinkle-cut fries. Image Source: YouTube /
The Wall Street Journal.
The Wall Street Journal.
A bold move from a brand that rarely changes
Shake Shack has never been one to make frequent menu updates.
Since its start as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park, the brand has taken a slow and careful approach to expansion, prioritizing quality and consistency.
That’s why the arrival of a new side dish—especially one as specific as fried pickles—is turning heads.
It’s more than just a seasonal feature.
It’s a sign that Shake Shack is listening to customer cravings and ready to shake things up.
Also read: Burger King in court—are fast food photos too good to be true?
What makes them different
These aren’t your average bar pickles.
Shake Shack’s Fried Pickles are made with thick-cut dill slices, marinated in a house brine and coated in a lightly seasoned batter before being fried to golden crispness.
Each order is served with Shack Ranch, a house-made buttermilk-based dipping sauce that adds a creamy, herb-filled counterpoint to the pickles’ sharp tang.
The flavor is bold but balanced—perfect for pickle lovers, and a fun, flavorful twist for curious first-timers.
How to enjoy them
Shake Shack recommends trying the Fried Pickles on their own, but there are plenty of pairing options for those looking to build the perfect summer meal:
- With a ShackBurger – The fried pickles add crunch and brightness to a juicy burger.
- As part of the BBQ menu – They’re launching alongside Shake Shack’s seasonal BBQ offerings, which include smoked burgers and chicken sandwiches.
- Next to your usual fries – Who says you can’t have both? Mix and match your sides for a satisfying combo.
Also read: Shake Shack unveils its summer menu—here’s when you can try their new flavors
Customers asked—and Shake Shack listened
The move wasn’t random.
According to the company, the idea came from last year’s summer BBQ menu, which featured fried pickles as a topping.
One-third of customers who tried them gave glowing feedback, prompting Shake Shack to bring the item back—but this time as a standalone side.
The pickles are available for a limited time, with prices starting at $3.99.
A growing trend in fast food
Shake Shack isn’t the only name exploring this tangy side trend.
Burger King recently released its own fried pickles—served as spears with ranch dressing—suggesting that this Southern favorite is enjoying a national spotlight.
Still, Shake Shack’s version may set the standard with its attention to detail, fresh ingredients, and signature dipping sauce.
Source: Instagram / shakeshack
Also read: Fast food, fast farewell to funds? These 3 chains are draining your wallet!
The pickle’s rise to stardom
Pickles have long been a go-to burger topping, but in recent years they’ve made the jump from supporting role to main event.
From upscale restaurants to local diners, fried pickles are having a moment—and Shake Shack’s inclusion of them as a full menu item only cements their status.
As Shake Shack continues to evolve, many are wondering what other menu surprises could be next.
If fried pickles are a hit, could more inventive sides follow?
Only time will tell.
For now, one thing is clear: Shake Shack’s fries are no longer alone on the plate!
Read next: Will Shake Shack be serving up a shack in your city? Here’s what you need to know!
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Are you a fried pickle fan? Have you already given Shake Shack’s version a try—or do you have a favorite way to pair your Shack meal? Drop your comments below and share your tips, taste tests, and honest opinions. Whether you’re a loyal Shack regular or just love a new twist on an old classic, this summer side might be worth a bite!
