KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Brisket is booming on menus, pumping up the protein in keto burrito bowls, protein-packed sandwiches and toasted subs.

At Qdoba Mexican Eats, a new burrito bowl is bolstered with brisket and caters to the keto lifestyle. The Smoked Brisket Keto Bowl contains smoked brisket and guacamole on a bed of lettuce topped with pico de gallo, salsa verde and shredded cheese. The keto bowl is accompanied by a new Grilled Fajita Vegan Bowl and Chicken Protein Bowl.

“Our culinary team developed these bowls to adhere to dietary guidelines while still delivering a memorable flavor experience,” said Jill Adams, vice president of marketing at Qdoba. “We believe flavor should never be compromised, no matter your dietary preference. These new creations make it easy for Qdoba guests that are keto, vegan or just looking to eat more protein to come in and order a tasty meal that still fits in their lifestyle.”

Arby’s is adding the new Bourbon BBQ Barrel Stack sandwich to its meat-heavy menu. Featuring a buttermilk chicken fillet, the hefty handheld is piled with pit smoked ham, 13-hour smoked brisket, brown sugar bacon, Kentucky bourbon barbecue sauce, melted cheddar cheese and crispy onions all served on a star-cut bun.

Quiznos is introducing the Pit-Smoked Brisket Sandwich. Loaded with brisket smoked for 13 hours, the sandwich includes cheddar, pickles, red onions and a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce.

“Simply put, this flavorful brisket sandwich is a perfect example of the classic menu staples we carefully craft with the freshest ingredients, finest quality meats and unique sauces that satisfy guests’ cravings,” said Sheila Zimmerman, vice president of marketing for Quiznos parent REGO Restaurant Group. “Like all our sandwiches, the Pit-Smoked Brisket is made with butcher-quality meats and toasted artisan bread to give customers the taste they’ve come to expect from a Quiznos sandwich.”

View slideshow of new menu items.