The Inspiration Behind the Menu

During a visit to the Shake Shack Innovation Kitchen in March, a new culinary staple was put to the test: pimento cheese. Often called the "caviar of the South," this spread—traditionally made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimento peppers—is a cultural icon in the Southern United States.

The "Clubhouse" branding is a nod to the Masters Tournament at Augusta National. The tournament is famous for its affordable and popular pimento cheese sandwich, which costs $1.50. Shake Shack’s version first appeared at an off-site Masters event last year via a food truck and is now receiving a nationwide rollout.

Menu Details and Ingredients

Shake Shack’s version of pimento cheese features a unique twist. Instead of traditional pimento peppers, the chain uses its signature Shack cherry peppers, also found on the SmokeShack burger. John Karangis, executive chef and VP of culinary innovation, noted that these peppers provide a balance of heat, sweetness, and acidity.

The menu was developed at the request of Shake Shack CEO Rob Lynch, an Atlanta resident who recognized the popularity of the spread. The limited-time offerings include:

  • Clubhouse Pimento Cheese Burger ($9.99): A quarter-pound burger with lettuce, tomato, ShakeSauce, and pimento cheese.
  • Chicken Sandwich ($9.99): Breaded chicken, lettuce, pickles, ShakeSauce, and pimento cheese.
  • Chicken Bites: Available in 6-piece ($5.99) or 10-piece ($8.49) orders, with a side of pimento cheese available for $1.99.

The Verdict: Burger vs. Chicken

While the burger was decent, the pimento cheese did not pair perfectly with the other ingredients. The tomato addition also contributed to a soggier texture than desired.

The chicken sandwich, however, was a standout. The tanginess of the pimento cheese complemented the pickles, and the peppery seasoning of the chicken cut through the smokiness of the cheese. The Chicken Bites themselves were also highly praised for their crispy, addictive quality, though the pimento cheese was found to be too thick to function effectively as a dip.

Availability

The Clubhouse Pimento Cheese menu launched nationwide on March 31. Please note that the side of pimento cheese must be ordered in person and is not currently available for online orders.