KANSAS CITY — Restaurants are pairing proteins with alcohol-infused sauces, from beef and whiskey steak sauce to chicken breast and beer cheese to pork loin and Kentucky bourbon sauce and pork loin.

Applebee’s is offering two new boozy menu items. The new Whisky Bacon Burger features caramelized onions and Applewood smoked bacon seared into an all-beefy topped and topped with Fireball Whisky-infused steak sauce, Applewood smoked bacon, crispy onions and pepper jack cheese. Applebee’s new Chicken Breast with Bacon Beer Cheese Topper includes a grilled chicken breast with Blue Moon white cheddar beer cheese, bacon, crispy onions and fresh green onions.

Beer cheese and beef unite in TGI Fridays’ new Mac & Cheese Burger. The sandwich, served on a challah bun, features crispy macaroni and cheese, beer cheese sauce and spicy mayo atop a burger patty made with brisket, chuck and short rib.

Quaker Steak & Lube is pairing pork loin with a Kentucky bourbon sauce in its new Coffee and Spice Crusted Pork Loin. The pork is flame-broiled and glazed with a Kentucky bourbon sauce then served with bacon-balsamic Brussels sprouts and potato-filled pierogi pastas.


Click to view a slideshow of new menu items.