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How to win the morning with breakfast

February 2, 2026

Breakfast remains one of the most important dayparts, but today’s guests expect a balance of routine, convenience, and just enough excitement to keep things interesting. According to Mintel, 42% of consumers eat the same breakfast most days, yet 38% enjoy trying new restaurants for breakfast or brunch, showing the opportunity to deliver both comfort and novelty. At the same time, consumers are concerned that rising prices will impact their breakfast routine, putting pressure on operators to deliver value and consistency.¹

And with February as National Potato Lovers Month, we are reminded just how beloved and versatile potatoes are. It’s the perfect time for operators to spotlight this breakfast staple. One area where operators can reliably win? Potato sides.

Mintel reports that more variety in potato sides ranks #2 among breakfast/brunch options consumers want to see more frequently (31%).¹ Datassential data also shows growth at breakfast in potato‑centric items like potato cakes (+25% past 4-year growth), proving the category’s staying power.²

Why potatoes are the breakfast solution

Lamb Weston’s potato portfolio helps operators meet today’s breakfast needs:

Familiar, comforting, and always craveable

Guests love classics and 33% say they order items they can’t easily make at home, making elevated potato sides a clear differentiator.¹

Ideal for on‑the‑go mornings

35% of consumers prefer portable breakfast items, so formats like hash brown patties, potato bites, or seasoned diced potatoes are perfect for handhelds, bowls, or snack boxes.¹

Easy platform for “safe adventure”

Small twists drive interest without overwhelming guests. Lamb Weston products take well to global seasonings, premium toppings, and LTOs; ideal for adding creativity while keeping costs and labor in check.

10009, Russettes shredded hash browns, omelette with cheese, bacon, white plate, blue background, wood, spinach, tomato, red bell pepper

How operators can use Lamb Weston to build a better breakfast

1. Upgrade the classics

Start with familiar favorites like Lamb Weston® Shredded IQF Hash Browns or crispy diced potatoes, then elevate them with fresh toppings, seasonings, or proteins to create signature breakfast plates that feel new without complicating your kitchen.

2. Serve the on‑the‑go guest

For quick, portable options, try the Mini Waffled Hash Brown, a fun mash‑up of waffle and hash brown with crispy ridges that hold dips, sauces, and seasonings. It’s perfectly sized for handheld builds and snackable sides.

en-us: Mediterranean Breakfast Benedict -CF

3. Add low‑risk innovation

Keep your menu fresh with simple twists: a Cajun potato skillet, a loaded hash brown LTO, or a rotating “breakfast potato of the month” that lets you test trends without committing to major changes.

LW586 OVEN ROASTED RED SKIN TRI-CUT DICE PLATED WITH EGG, SAUSAGE AND GRILLED VEGETABLES

Lamb Weston helps you own the morning daypart

With products built for consistency, speed, and versatility, Lamb Weston gives operators the tools to thrive in a breakfast landscape that stands on convenience, comfort, and value. Our portfolio helps you meet every guest's needs, from weekday grab‑and‑go to weekend indulgence, while keeping operations simple and profitable.

Check out this recipe for the perfect breakfast bowl with Lamb Weston® Oven Roasted Red Skin Tri-Cut Dice.

Sources:

Mintel, Restaurant Breakfast and Brunch Trends Report, 2025
Datassential, MenuTrends, YE SEP’25