Red Lobster has been serving up a wide range of seafood entrees and appetizers for more than 50 years. It only makes sense that over that time, devotees of the seafood chain have found some unique ways to customize the menu to their liking. There isn’t exactly an official Red Lobster secret menu. Instead, there are some popular customization options and tweaks you can make to your meal to give yourself the best dining experience possible.

Official secret menu vs. customer creations?

When we talk about the Red Lobster secret menu, most of what we’re referring to isn’t an official secret menu, but rather customer creations or alterations to the menu that open up more options for diners. Or, some special tips that can get you a great meal that you might not otherwise have known about.

Most of these tips come through social media platforms or forums where people share their experiences in creating a sort of Red Lobster secret menu of their own.

The most popular Red Lobster secret menu items

Here is a quick look at some of the ways Red Lobster fans order off a “secret menu,” or simply adjust their ordering in creative ways:

• Asking for fresh fish: Having a hard time choosing something from the menu? You might consider asking the waiter if they got in any fresh fish that day. There’s a possibility you’ll be able to get an entrée with fresh fish not otherwise listed on the menu. It will likely cost more, but it opens up some delicious options!
• Get it grilled: While few can resist the amazing flavor of steamed lobster, sometimes you’re in the mood for something a little different. Few diners realize you can order your lobster grilled for some extra-charred flavor. Just ask your server and enjoy this decadent option!
• Onion strings appetizer: Red Lobster’s onion strings are commonly served as a topping on entrees. But if you like, you can order these onion strings as an appetizer! You can customize that dish even more with a sauce of your choice, such as peach bourbon BBQ sauce. It’s a delicious secret menu item you’ll want to try yourself.
• Former specials: Have you ever gone to Red Lobster and ordered a special menu item, only to be disappointed upon your next visit to find it’s no longer offered? Most of the time, Red Lobster will still have all the necessary ingredients to make your special. Ask your waiter about it and you might be able to enjoy that special again, even though it’s not on the menu.
• Extra Cheddar Biscuits: The cheddar biscuits at Red Lobster are a sensation. When we say “extra,” we’re not just referring to ordering more—though you should certainly do that if you’re enjoying them! Instead, you can ask them to add some extra cheddar cheese to make them even gooier and more delicious.

How to order from the Red Lobster secret menu

As stated, some of the above aren’t exactly items you’d find on a Red Lobster secret menu. Instead, they’re pointers for how to customize your dining experience. But regardless, your best bet is to talk to your waiter and simply describe what you’re looking for. Trying any of these tips will give you a memorable Red Lobster experience you’ll want to enjoy again soon.