Charleys Philly Steaks, parent company of Charleys Cheesesteaks and Charleys Philly Steak and Wings, has streamlined the menus at both brands, removing their deli sandwiches to focus on their core item, the company based in Columbus, Ohio, said Thursday.
Charleys Philly Steak and Wings will still serve chicken wings and ice cream, the company confirmed.
In an email announcing the menu change, director of marketing Jason Whitt said that in tests in more than 30 restaurants across the system of more than 700 restaurants, the streamlined menu resulted in a 5% increase in same-store sales.
“Part of the uplift was focusing on our core cheesesteaks, but we also made it easier for guests to customize their cheesesteak with add-ons like bacon, jalapeños, extra cheese, etc.,” he said. “And we also launched a new kids meal as part of the test.”
That kids menu, being rolled out systemwide, includes smaller sized “Lil’ Cali Cheesesteak” options with steak or chicken tenders, plus a chicken finger meal with small fries, a kid’s drink and two Oreo cookies for dessert, except at Charleys Philly Steaks and Wings, which instead will offer a four-piece boneless wing meal with fries, drink and choice of an ice cream cone or two Oreos.
The change comes as many restaurants have moved to simplify operations in the face of labor shortages, rising cost of goods and supply-chain challenges, all of which further complicate the already difficult task of running profitable businesses.
The company recently emphasized its focus on its core item with the launch of its Old School Cheesesteak, made with a double portion of seasoned steak and sautéed onions on a toasted roll with Cheez Whiz, starting at $7.79 for a small.
Charleys Philly Steaks was founded in 1986 when founder Charley Shin started selling cheesesteaks as a 22-year-old student at Ohio State University in Columbus. Apart from his cheesesteak concepts, his umbrella company Gosh Enterprises also operates Bibibop Asian Grill and Lenny’s Grill & Subs.
There are currently 576 Charleys Philly Steaks locations and140 Charleys Philly Steaks and Wings Units.
Contact Bret Thorn at [email protected]