Sonic Announces $1.99 Menu: What’s Inside

Joshua Hallenbeck and Addy Bink

27 minutes ago

(WJET/WFXP) — Sonic Drive-In is the latest fast food restaurant to join the growing “price war” to attract more customers as inflation continues to drive up prices.

The “FUN.99” menu features many of their most popular items as well as a new addition, all for just $1.99. Customers can grab a quarter-pound double cheeseburger, chili cheese cone, cheese wrap, tots and any 16-ounce shake, each for $1.99.

“Now more than ever, consumers are focused on affordable food options, but they shouldn’t have to settle for the same old tired discounts or boring meals,” SONIC CMO Ryan Dickerson said in a press release.

Menu prices will be available all day, every day, and will be a permanent addition to the menu.

A recent study by FinanceBuzz found that over the past decade, menu prices have increased by an average of 39% to 100%. That’s more than the overall inflation rate of 31% recorded during the same period, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Many national chains have chosen to engage in a “price war” by trying to offer the most attractive deals.

Among them, McDonald’s announced a $5 meal deal last month (though it could be $6 in some parts of the country). Taco Bell launched a $7 “Luxe Cravings Box,” which includes four items and a medium-sized drink. Wendy’s recently launched a $3 breakfast combo, while Starbucks added its first “value menu” in June.

But not everyone is lowering their prices. Olive Garden announced last month that it would raise some of its prices after sales fell in the last quarter.

Nearly 80% of Americans consider fast food a luxury, according to a survey released earlier this year.

Nick Jachim contributed to this report.