Blaze Pizza turns its attention to families

The chain has launched its first-ever kids’ menu, including a personalized 7-inch pizza, drink, dessert or applesauce, and a coloring sheet for $7.95. On its own, the new 7-inch pizza is available as cheese, pepperoni, or personalized, with up to three toppings for $5.95. The company said the timing of this launch provides families an easier option for busy back-to-school schedules.

“More than half of our guests are families with children, so we designed this menu around what matters most: more choice, more flexibility and an easier way to enjoy a meal together,” CEO John Owen said in a statement. “The new kids menu gives every guest at the table something made for them, with the ability to personalize their pizza exactly how they like it.” The menu also comes amid a growing competition to attract families with children. Chipotle just launched a Salish Matter Order featuring a kid’s cheese quesadilla, for example, while Burger King upgraded its chicken nuggets and has been running promotions such as the SpongeBob Menu to cater to families.

Meanwhile, Cracker Barrel is running a free kids toy promotion, while Wayback Burgers is offering a free kids meal every Wednesday through Sept. 30. Mellow Mushroom is hosting a kids-eat-free promotion each Tuesday through the end of October, while children dining at the restaurant can receive a free plush Mel, while supplies last.

PDQ’s new “Voices from the Backseat” campaign “celebrates the voices and appetites of kids,” and includes a free kids meal with the purchase of any combo meal through September. For Blaze, the new kids’ meal comes as the company forges a turnaround.

In 2025, sales declined by over 12%, according to Technomic, with a 13.5% closure rate, ending the year with 230 locations, from 266 in 2024. The Atlanta-based chain was founded in 2011 and was one of the pioneers of the top-your-own fast-casual pizza segment.

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