KANSAS CITY, MO. — Restaurant operators are expanding menus with limited-time offerings to capture consumer attention.

St. Louis-based Panera Bread has launched several summer items inspired by the flavors of Italian cuisine. The company’s Italian steak and mozzarella sandwich features marinated steak, mozzarella, tomato, arugula, basil, garlic aioli and Italian dressing, and Panera’s Italian market salad is made with mixed greens, arugula, sopressata, shredded asiago cheese, basil, salt, pepper, chickpeas, croutons and Italian dressing.

“With these new summer menu items, we wanted to channel the vibrant flavors of Italy in a way that was fresh and exciting for our guests,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of culinary at Panera Bread. “It’s all about bringing together bold flavors and thoughtful pairings.”

Wendy’s has partnered with Grupo Bimbo brand Takis to create a line of spicy menu items. The lineup centers on the Takis Fuego Chicken Sandwich, a spicy chicken filet topped with crushed Takis Fuego chips, chili lime sauce, cheddar cheese sauce and a corn spread. The collaboration also includes Fuego Fries, Wendy’s traditional fries tossed in chili lime seasoning.

“At Wendy’s, we know how to keep things spicy, and we love serving up fresh, famous collaborations that tap into consumers passion points, which made this partnership with Takis a no brainer,” said Lindsay Radkoski, chief marketing officer, US, for The Wendy’s Co. “By joining forces with such an iconic and beloved snacking brand, we’re turning up the heat and flavor.”

CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc. brand Hardee’s has unveiled its latest LTO, the barbecue pulled pork frisco sandwich. The item combines Angus beef with slow smoked pulled pork, American cheese, crispy onions, pickles and Sweet Baby Ray’s Sweet ‘n Spicy barbecue sauce on sourdough bread.

“Our new menu items reflect our dedication to culinary innovation and the high-quality flavors and ingredients our guests desire,” said Sarah Breymaier, vice president of brand marketing at Hardee’s.