I know secrets about #DennysDiners and I’m not telling!
That’s mean, isn’t it?
I promise I’ll tell you as much as I can, and good (and tasty) things come to those who wait for the rest.
As a #DennysDiners ambassador, I was invited as a guest to Denny’s HQ and test kitchen in Spartanburg, SC for a little taste and tell adventure.
Trivia:Denny’s was originally founded as Danny’s Donuts! The name was changed because people were confusing it with a place called “Coffee Dan’s”.
Everyone on the Denny’s team was so warm and welcoming, and as we nibbled on a breakfast of fresh fruit, baked treats and fresh-from-the-oven pancake puppies (try them, you’ll love them), we learned all kinds of things about Denny’s history, marketing campaigns and menu updates.
One of the neatest things Denny’s has been doing is partnering with National Geographic Kids for their kids’ adventure menu. It’s full of edutainment and animals kids love, like dolphins. (Pssst, the animals change every quarter. Next up — penguins!)
Another reason kids and parents love the kids’ menu is that they can see a full color photo of each item. I gotta hand it to Denny’s on that idea; sheer brilliance. Kids can even color in the circles of what they’d like to order.
We also had the chance to visit Denny’s test kitchen where the menu magic happens, and believe me, I tasted it. The magic is happening.
Everything is organized and arranged for streamlined efficiency, so they’re able to do an incredible amount of research and testing within a relatively small space. What you see on the menu is planned a good 18 months in advance!
So about that menu magic…
Much of what I ate (and oh, did I eat!) is still “lips zipped” information, but this chicken salad sandwich is to die for and is available in restaurants now. Homemade with roasted seasoned chicken, celery, red grapes, toasted almonds and mayo, it’s served with spring mix and tomato on toasted 7-grain bread.
And seafood lovers, how about this Alaska king salmon with whole grain rice and fresh steamed veggies from the Fit Fare menu?
As for the other secretive items I sampled, I wish I could show you. But, I’ll just say that there are some incredibly tasty seasonal dishes appearing in Denny’s Diners beginning October 1st, and they pretty much made my taste buds sing.
Trust me, you need to plan a trip to Denny’s at least once a month for the rest of the year. You’ll love what’s coming for the holidays!
Marcie W. says
We love the occasional breakfast at Denny’s! Many of their menu options are both tasty and affordable, so it makes a meal out with a family of five easy and fun.
Anne - Mommy Has to Work says
Okay, now I want to go to Dennys to eat!
Debbie Denny says
Awesome thing to be a part of. Food looks delish
Michelle Mork says
Looking forward to the new items!
Adin B says
I can’t remember the last time we were at Denny’s, but we actually had a great meal. We always like their breakfast every time we go and usually during travel time. That looks like some good eating. And that is so nice you got to experience that. How wonderful! Thanks for sharing.
Amanda mcMahon says
Interesting! I love that you got to see behind the scenes. Oh and I love the baby there too 🙂
Katie says
It has been FOREVER (I’m talking 20+ years) since I’ve been to Denny’s, but I did look over their menu recently when it was a breakfast option and I’m really impressed with their light menu!
Payal Bansal (TrendsnHealth) says
It is so exciting to know what happens behind the scenes at the kitchen of the restaurant we usually end up having food.
Donna says
I forgot to mention before that I am very impressed with that kitchen!
Colleen says
Those pancake puppies are awesome! We enjoyed the menu when we were there sharing some facts about the big blue ocean.
Jennifer H says
That sounds like a fun trip Liz! It’s always cool to get behind the scenes info. 🙂
Crystal Green says
Wow I didn’t realize their “test kitchen” is so close to me. I live about 3.5 hours from there. This would have been a fun experience for sure. I personally enjoy Denny’s a lot.
Angela says
wow girl, you have seen some AMAZING places in your blogging journey! Isn’t blogging SO much fun, I love your blog and so enjoyed meeting you IRL at Auntie Anne’s!
Rebecca Swenor says
Love Denny’s food but we don’t have one here. I love the kids menu. Thanks for sharing.
Angela says
We don’t have a Denny’s in town either. It takes about an hour to get to one. It’s such a shame because I really like Denny’s.
kristin says
What a great trip. We eat at Denny’s when we travel. Love their newest fresher selections too!
Krystal says
I used to go to Dennys so much as a teenager. I would like to try them now as an adult.
April says
It is so clean! it’s cool to see behind the scenes.
Lara says
I would not believed those dishes came from Denny’s if you didn’t specify! They look amazing! I did not know Denny’s has come that far! WOW!
Maggie says
I love the new kids menus! I like that they can color in the selections!
Grace | Life in an Island Paradise says
This post made me hungry as of the moment! The place looks so neat and fresh!
LyndaS says
All of that planning! I wish I had that in me. I can’t wait to see the new menu offerings.
Alexis AKA MOM says
How fun! I love to see the behind the scenes.
Geanine SchoolYardStyle says
Oh my goodness, DENNYS is my ultimate favorite! I wish they were available more North, at the moment I only get to eat there when we are down south (sadness).
Lexie Lane says
Ha! I had no idea it was called Danny’s Donuts. It’s great that they’re partnering with National Geographic Kids . I love companies that get involved with our kids education like this.
Aisha Kristine Chong says
I like how clean the kitchen was – wonderful!
Marielle Altenor says
They need to open up a Denny’s here in Montreal! All will be alright with the world when they do! lol I only got to go a few times during my trips to Florida and I just love that place!!!
Amanda Love - Growing Up Madison says
I had a horrible experience at Denny’s on our way to Canada so have never eaten there but after reading and seeing this I just may give them a second chance.
Lori says
I’m planning a trip to Denny’s based on the sheer genius of that children’s menu! Do you know how many arguments and how much whining that will allow me to avoid? Bravo Denny’s! You’ve made a new fan out of me.
Kristin says
Those dishes look amazing. Im going to have to stop by a Denny’s soon and try the salmon for myself.
Mary O'Malley says
That looks delicious! A lot better than the food I’ve received at Denny’s. I’m so sad they got rid of my favorite thing they ever had though. The Mozzarella Cheese stick grilled cheese sandwich. It was so good.
Jeanine says
Wow great post! We love Denny’s and had no idea about any of this! Also, that food looks to die for .. I haven’t been to Denny’s in too long!
Kathy says
That salmon looks delicious. I haven’t been to a Denny’s in a long time. I need to stop by!
Barbie's Beauty Bits says
I have a big client who is a restauranteur, I love the idea of test kitchens, I’ve told them they need to do this! I never knew that Denny’s had another name before, that was really fun info.
candice says
i’ve never been to a denny’s, but this food looks so good. diner for is always delicious and i just love the menu having so many choices.
Kylie says
Interesting! I haven’t been to Denny’s in ages, but this looks pretty cool.
Joanna Sormunen says
Denny’s sounds like a great place! And the food looks so delicious! Hope I get the chance to try them out some time!
Shannon Gosney says
I’m so bummed I missed out on this trip – dang sickness. Sounds like you had a great time!
Chrissy says
This was really neat! I love Dennys, yum!
Tami says
I wish we had a Denny’s down here. I visited Denny’s a few times when I visited the States and was never disappointed.
Travel Blogger says
I wish I worked at a test kitchen. Not as a cook but as a food tester! haha Im sure the tour was fun.
Ann Bacciaglia says
My daughter loves going to Denny’s. The food is good and the prices are reasonable.
MommaDJane says
That Alaskan King Salmon meal looks delicious. I know my family would enjoy that.
Ashley Nicholas says
What a cool opportunity! It looks like their menu is awesome!
Danielle says
Denny’s has a great kids menu. Wish we had one closer!
Dawn @ Pin-n-Tell says
There are so many choices for the kiddos, love this! And, it’s awesome how many sides they have to choose from 🙂
Noa says
Very interesting and delicious! Looks like a fun day, I would love to do something similar at a restaurant. And I want to try that chicken salad sandwich for sure!
Taralyn says
What a fun tour! I know my kids love the kids menu!
Angela says
I’ve always like Denny’s. I really like to go for late night breakfast.
Tracey says
What a fun experience! I would love to try out that salmon. It looks so healthy and fresh.
mykidsguide says
Wow, I wish my kitchen was organized like this one. It must be cool to test their food. What an experience
Amanda says
So fun! My kids really love Denny’s. Good food at a great value!
Beth@KCMompreneurs says
So hungry right now. I haven’t been to Denny’s in a while so maybe it is time to stop by.
Yona says
That sandwich looks DELICIOUS above. How cool was THAT to visit a Denny’s test kitchen…I would have loved to go….just to see what goes on back there.
Ann Bacciaglia says
We often visit our local Denny’s. The food is always delicious and the service is great.
Wendi S says
Whats that, Liz? Top secret food items. I am always excited to try new menu items. It looked like a great day!
Vanessa: thequeenofswag says
I love going on Kitchen tours. It’s always so interesting to see how they make the foods. And that sandwich looks delish.
Of Coffee and Crackers says
The food really looks so yummy! And pretty nice and neat place too! 🙂
Kathleen says
Looks like you had a great time learning more about Denny’s. I had no idea they started out under a different name. Love the look of that new kid’s menu, how exciting!
Stefanie says
I haven’t been to Denny’s in FOREVER! But I think it’s time to return… you can’t beat $4 breakfast!
Lisa @ Two Bears Farm says
How fun to get to taste their test kitchen food! We stopped at a Denny’s on vacation last summer. The boys loved it!
Penelope Guzman says
I love seeing familiar faces, what a fun time!
noelle d says
I am glad you shared this… I always associate Denny’s with breakfast… but that chicken salad sandwich sounds amazing….
Ave says
Looks liek you had a lot of fun sampling those new dishes. We don’t have Denny’s here, but would love to try out their food.
Nikki says
I wish I had a Denny’s near me. When I lived in Maryland for a year ages ago, we had one right around the corner. We ate there constantly. They have great food!
Donna says
I would so go to Denny’s at least once a month if there was one anywhere near me. :/ I always stop at one when we see one while traveling, though. 🙂
Chelle @ Oh Just Stop Already says
I miss Denny’s so badly! Their Moons over Hammy is my all time favorite meal with extra crispy hashbrowns.
Kristin says
You made me jealous with that chicken salad sandwich! It looks amazing!
Kero Pinkihan says
the kitchen is tidy! I hope more and more restaurants and diner will do this. i’d like to come by again and again when I am aware what goes in the background of the brand
Tamara N says
Denny’s is always our go to place when we are on the road traveling or on vacation. We love the variety of menu items and we love their breakfast menu.
Cristy Ridey says
I love Denny’s. The chicken salad sandwich looks very fresh and delicious!
Toni says
YUM! I love Denny’s. I don’t get to eat there very often but we really enjoy it when we do.
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly says
You had me at Dolphins, I got distracted, LOL. Then I saw seafood and perked up again! I had no idea they had seafood on their menu, I don’t think I have one near me, I am going to have to check out their locator so I can find out for sure!
Veronica says
Denny’s is really making their restaurants more exciting. It nice to give you an experience ans something to look forward to. Looks like a great experience for ya
Danielle Royalegacy says
What a very clean kitchen! One place I would love to visit is the kitchens of the places that I eat at. If they are not clean, then neither is the food. I’m so happy that Denny’s makes sure there kitchens are clean.
Love love going to Denny’s. I have many fond memories of Grand Slams.
Christie says
What a fun travel adventure! So neat to see behind the scenes at Dennys!
Meagan says
We love Denny’s! We go there a lot – can’t beat the prices and great food! What a fun tour!
Darlene Ysaguirre says
What a great way to get kids excited about eating the food on their plates. I have always loved Dennys great food at a great price.
TerriAnn @ Cookies & Clogs says
Wow, they plan the menu 18 months in advance?! I love this partnership and I can attest to kids enjoying the ability to circle their food choices. The Alaska king salmon with whole grain rice and fresh steamed veggies looks amazing!
Tanya Coffman says
ouuuhhh…thanks for the heads up for the holiday secret menu! I’m sure with all the holiday shopping, we will be stopping by plenty of times 🙂 Until your post, I never took note to the fact that they do have very nice menus. Having the pictures of each item not only helps my kids make their selection…but me as an adult. Thanks for the review!
cam | bibs and baubles says
We spend lots of time at Denny’s for a quick lunch or lazy breakfast with the kids. Looking forward to what’s to come!
Debi says
My family loves Denny’s. It’s delicious, and it’s cheap. Those are two biggies for me. I would love to get a behind the scenes look like this. Very cool!
Janeane Davis says
My favorite thing about Denny’s is not the food, but the fact that when there was a big problem with Denny’s employees acting improperly quite a few years ago, Denny’s didn’t just talk, they addressed the problem and made real changes.
Sara P. (@SensiblySara) says
Taste and Tell sounds like so much fun!!
I have to say, though, Denny’s and I don’t get along very well. Every time I’ve been in there, I’ve been disappointed in the service.
Stacie @ The Divine Miss Mommy says
What a fun tour! We love Denny’s and my kids are always trying to get us to go there. Moons Over My Hammy….yum!!!!!
Raijean says
OH wow, how cool is that! I love seeing behind the scenes action.
Nolie says
I would love to go behind the scenes at Dennys. It is my familys favourite place to eat.
FamiGami says
I would love to go to a Denny’s in the US. unfortunately, the Denny’s in Canada has a terrible reputation for being biker bars. The two countries seriously treat this brand VERY differently.
Nina Say says
I’m always up for a trip to Denny’s, our local staff are always so nice and it is like a family there. Unfortunately my husband doesn’t care for this type of food, so I usually just take the kiddos for a mom date.
Looking forward to the new menu items!
Carly Anderson says
I am TOTALLY jealous about your ambassadorship with Denny’s! I just wish there was a Denny’s closer to us – the closest one is a little over an hour away! 🙁
Shauna says
I have to say that I am loving all the changes that Denny’s is making…. Really makes me want to go and take my family.. They are definitely making it more family-friendly
Amber NElson says
I love Dennys! Unfortunately now our drive is a bit longer to get there, but it is a treat!
michele d says
How fun! I haven’t been to Denny’s in years. It must of been fun to tour the kitchen.
Bridgette says
I am so incredibly sad that I had to miss this event. But I am loving learning new things about Denny’s and sharing with my readers.
Marybeth Hamilton says
That chicken salad looks amazing. I also love that shiny, clean shot of the kitchen. I haven’t been to Denny’s in ages but this makes me want to check it out again!
Ben @ Cheap is the New Classy says
Denny’s is awesome! I literally live two minutes from a Denny’s, and I eat there a lot. I had to laugh at one of the pictures. You know it’s a blogging event when there’s a smartphone in every hand, and there’s a baby in a backpack. Great!
Annie {Stowed Stuff} says
We don’t really have a Denny’s close by, but I’m liking the menu! What a fun trip you got to go on! Love the Nat’l Geo!
Cody Anderson says
Looks like fun. I’d love to see how the back end of my favorite restaurant works.
rochkirstin says
The whole grain rice looked really yummy and nutritious. Add the fresh steamed veggies and this meal is really something I would want for lunch later. 🙂 I’m excited for what’s up and will be coming in the holidays.
robyn says
The Alaskan King Salmon looks so good. I had no idea that Denny’s had such yumminess.
Kecia says
Ugh, we don’t have a Denny’s nearby. The last time I’ve eaten at one was a few years ago while on vacation.
Heather says
Totally jealous. That’s my kind of blogger trip.
Jenn says
It’s always fun to have secrets, huh? 😉
We go to Denny’s for breakfast and really late at night. It’s like a tradition… 2AM? Denny’s baby!
Ashley B. says
Denny’s reminds me a lot of a chain restaurant we have in my area called Friendly’s. It looks like you had a great time. Can’t wait to see what those seasonal dishes are 🙂
maria @ close to home says
I have not been to Denny’s in years, I love have they have adapted to the times, we might have to take the kids soon.
Sarah Bailey says
Ohh what a fantastic time – so nice that you can see where all the magic happens 🙂 x
Rosey says
Looking forward to hearing more. I love that the sandwich had 7-grain bread. Denny’s is our go-to place after Soccer Games on Saturdays. 🙂
Amy D says
Oh wow, this place looks awesome! How cool is it that you got to see how things were made first hand?
Lindsey @ Redhead Baby Mama says
My son was looking over my shoulder and saw the dolphin adventure menu. He wanted to go there immediately!
Franc Ramon says
Denny’s has a nice branding and recall. I’m sure this is a go-to place for a lot of people. I hope we have Denny’s too.
Digna D. says
Mmmm, looks tasty. We always liked Denny’s but it was a longstanding joke that whenever we went to our local Denny’s they would be out of baked potatoes for my hubby. 🙂
Lisa says
We have one Denny’s and I haven’t been in ages. Sounds like I need to plan a dinner out!
maria says
Sounds like they are adding some great options! I love getting a behind the scene look at corporate headquarters.
kristi says
The food sounds delicious. I would love to try that chicken salad (and the pancakes of course.) That kitchen looks spotless!
Tonya C says
Wow! What a rare look into Denny’s HQ. Thanks for the sneak peek!
Touristmeetstraveler says
Denny’s is a great restaurant, I’ve been there quite a few times!
Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM says
I confess: there was a time in my life when I was OBSESSED with pancake puppies!
Bonnie G says
Oh wow, I haven’t been to Denny’s in forever. Will have to go now.
celebbabylaundry says
It’s been a while since I’ve been to Denny’s, I need to go there soon!
Tammilee Tips says
Your sandwich looks amazing!!! I love how Denny’s is changing up their menu and what an awesome treat for kids to have National Geographic information at the restaurant!
deb says
The chicken salad looks so good. Showing a full color image for the menu options is such a good idea.
Lois Alter Mark says
I love Denny’s, and it would take no convincing at all to get me to have dinner there tonight!
Michele says
I have eaten at Denny’s on occasion but there are none around where I live. I agree their food is really really tasty!
Kim says
You lucky gal! I love Denny’s and we eat there often. The food is always so delicious! Can’t wait to hear more about your partnership with them! Yay!
Amber Edwards says
I love the new kids meal options. Denny’s has really come a long way from when I was a kid. Their food actually tastes good now! Well…maybe it was the select locations I didn’t like when I was a kid. But when we visit now; they are great.
Janel says
I love their kids menus! They actually keep my kids entertained!!
Janel (A Mom's Take) says
This is such a wonderful thing that Denny’s is doing with NatGeo Kids. I need to find a Denny’s near me and take the kids there for lunch one day soon. I’m sure they enjoy it.
Tough Cookie Mommy says
We love going to Denny’s. Their menu choices are not only delicious but affordable too. My boys love their kids’ menu as well.
Melissa Vera says
What a great opportunity. I wish that we had a Denny’s in my town. The closest one is about an hour away.
Jenni E. {Sweet Pennies from Heaven} says
Wow, all that food looks amazing!! I love seeing new things coming out on the menu. We just recently had a Denny’s built in our local area and I go any chance I get. I have to check that chicken salad sandwich out. YUM! My sister loves their healthier options too. I bet she hasn’t tried the fish yet!
Marina says
This looks like it was such a fun trip. Denny’s always has such tasty food. I’m glad to know they’re continuing to research new yumminess!
Jennifer says
I love Denny’s! We have one really close to us, and we go to eat there all the time. This looks like it was a great trip.
Alena Belleque says
Wow, you’re a lucky, lucky lady! ♥ That fish looks delish, and I’m regretting the frozen pizza in my oven, now.
Stefany says
We recently just started going to Denny’s again after many years of not. I LOVE it. I am so glad that I convinced my husband to give it a try because I missed their food!
Dede says
Wow — when I think of Denny’s, I picture pancakes and waffles. Love the look of that fresh sandwich! My pick would be the salmon though; that looks divine!
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
Going to a test kitchen would be awesome. So lucky! I really enjoy Denny’s. I wish I had one a little closer to me.
Amylk says
I love Denny’s. unfortunately, I forget there’s one locally. good food for a cheap price! YUM
Pam says
Their food is definitely good for a great price! Plus there is something the whole family will love.
coolchillmom says
you are a lucky lady!
what a great adventure to go behind the scenes for an American diner!
Whitney @ Momma Knows Best says
That’s awesome that you got to go behind the scenes! We don’t have a Denny’s nearby anymore, unfortunately.
becca says
What a cool behind the scene look at Denny’s. i don’t think we have a Denny’s around my area anymore.
Pam says
The closest one to us is about 45 minutes away. We love to go as a special treat!
Matthew's Mom says
We love visiting Denny’s! We haven’t been in a while, so I am going to have to plan to visit this weekend with my hubby and little man.
Pam says
We haven’t been in a while either. We are definitely due for a visit.
Pam says
We love Denny’s! They have a great variety for the whole family. That chicken salad sandwich looks good.
Crystal says
We do too! The kids love being able to eat breakfast for dinner.
Cindy (Vegetarian Mamma) says
Very cool share! I love seeing behind the scenes!!!
Rebecca Swenor says
I wish we had a Denny’s here but we don’t. The food looks amazing. I like the kids menu the way they got it set up. Thanks for sharing.
Michelle de Guzman says
I would never have expected salmon on a Denny’s Menu. It looks like they have changed a lot since I was last there. I will have to go check them out.
Elizabeth Ferree says
I recently took my youngest to Denny’s and he got the Dolphin menu he kept chatting to them it was cute. I love the new dishes they bring out, especially around the holidays. Can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the coming months.
Dominique says
I love that Denny’s has been upping the ante with their menu. Really freshens things! Keeps ya wanting to come back!
Kristen from The Road to Domestication says
That sandwich looks delicious! My dad has always been a huge fan of Denny’s so you can imagine how many times I’ve been there 🙂
Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? says
It’s been ages since I’ve been in a Denny’s. Those meals look great!
(And, I love that a see a momma with her baby with her, too!)
Hilesha O'Nan says
That’s wonderful that they have fit options!
sharon martin says
My mouth’s watering already!! Looks delicious, we haven’t got a Denny’s where we are.
Daisy says
The Adventure Menu for kids looks awesome. I’m going to have to take my son for a visit. We love Denny’s because everyone in our family is able to find something that they like.
Candace says
I miss Dennys! They have such a great menu, and their indulgence foods are so so yummy.
xoxo
Candace
http://www.FromCtoC.com
Dwain says
Great pictures on the kid’s menu makes the choices so much easier for a picky kid.
Crystal says
Wow, those plates have me drooling. They look so good! I can’t wait to see what’s released next year on their menu.
Debbie L. says
What a fun experience.I have not been to a Denny’s in a long time – I think it is time I revisit Denny’s.
Tammy says
Those Adventure Menus are awesome for kids (and adults lol!) – I bet when my daughter was little it would have kept her more than occupied while we waited for our meals. And hello – Danny’s Donuts? Who knew?! I think they should bring donuts back to the menu 🙂
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
What a neat experience. I love Denny’s, but I don’t have one all that close to me, so I don’t get there as often as I wish.
Elizabeth @ Being MVP says
Wow haven’t been to Denny’s in some time. Love that their menu looks so good now!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
Their menu has definitley changed a lot. I can;t wait to try it out.
Debbie L. says
I agree – it looks like a totally new Denny’s from what I remember! I plan to check out he Denny’s in our area.
Kungphoo says
When we were growing up this was our late night place to go.. now its been gone from our area for a very long time,.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I love late night breakfast places. There’s nothing like bacon at 2 am 🙂
Kelsey Apley says
What I love about Denny’s is they are always trying new things and adding great items to their menu. I wish we lived near one, cause I have had it twice and both times were great!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
It’s awesome when a restaurant keeps things fresh and changes things up.
Jenna Wood says
That’s so cool about the brand name, Danny’s Donuts, I cant imagine ti being what it is today with donuts in the name! The food all looks delicious, I’m especially excited about the fit eating options.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I need to start eating healthier, so I love the fit options, too.