Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) is the perfect time to bring bold, authentic Latin flavors to your menu and connect with guests in a meaningful way. At Unilever Food Solutions, we aim to support chefs and operators during Hispanic Heritage Month by offering versatile products like Hellmann’s® and Knorr® Professional that can help bring Latin-inspired dishes to life.
Why This Month Matters for Your Business
This is more than a seasonal promotion. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time when guests are actively looking to celebrate culture through food.
- The Hispanic population in the U.S. holds $2.4 trillion in buying power and is projected to grow to 111 million people by 2060 1
- 49% of Hispanic consumers say they are more likely to support businesses that actively celebrate and reflect their culture 1
Gen Z and Millennial Hispanic diners are especially engaged, seeking out restaurants that offer authentic or innovative Latin-inspired dishes. Dishes like Cheesy Elote Dip, Chicken Chorizo Burritos, Vegan Burrito Bowls and Chicken Enchilada Taquitos not only deliver on flavor but also resonate deeply with guests looking to connect with their heritage or explore it through food.
3 Menu Trends You Can Use Right Now
1. Birria Is Bigger Than Ever
Birria has gone mainstream. It’s showing up in tacos, ramen, grilled cheese, and loaded fries. Guests love the richness and comfort of this dish, especially when it’s done right.
- Use Knorr® Professional Caldo de Res to create a deep, beefy consommé.
- Run a Birria Week with tacos, sliders, and fries.
- Add a dipping sauce made with Hellmann’s® Spicy Mayo or chipotle crema.
Try these recipes for some more birria inspiration! Surf n’ Turf Clams or Birria Stuffed Rice Balls.
2. Street Food-Style Small Plates
Latin American street food is trending, especially when it’s shareable and Instagram-worthy. Think elote bowls, mini arepas, empanadas, and yuca frita.
How to make it work:
- Offer a Latin Street Food Sampler with three or four small plates.
- Use Knorr® Professional Vegetable Base to boost flavor in beans, lentils, or sautéed veggies.
- Mix Hellmann’s® Vegan Mayo with lime or roasted garlic for a flavorful dipping sauce.
3. Highlight One Country at a Time
Instead of a general Latin menu, go deeper. Guests are curious about regional dishes from places like Peru, Colombia, and Oaxaca. Give them a taste of something new each week.
How to make it work:
- Create a four-week rotating menu, each one focused on a different country.
- Use Knorr® Professional Demi-Glace or Chicken Base to build authentic sauces and marinades.
- Share the story behind each dish on your menu or social channels to build connection.
For some Peruvian inspiration check out these local techniques and regional recipes.