PROVIDENCE — Just over 30 years after Rhode Island lawmakers deemed Rhody’s ever-popular coffee milk the official state drink in 1993, the Ocean State staple is now apparently getting the Dunkin’ treatment.
On Wednesday, as the Massachusetts-based coffee-and-donut chain unveiled its fall lineup, the company introduced a new addition to its menu: the “Dunkalatte,” its first-ever latte to feature coffee milk.
“This coffee milk latte combines Dunkin’s rich espresso with a secret ingredient: coffee milk, inspired by Rhode Island’s official beverage,” the company said in a press release.
According to Dunkin’, the latte’s coffee milk will be made with whole milk and the brand’s own coffee extract.
The beverage will be available for a limited time, according to Dunkin’. But the chain also teased “more Dunkalatte excitement is brewing, so fans should keep an eye out for what Dunkin’ has in store next.”
With Wednesday’s announcement, Dunkin’ affirmed the return of many fall favorites, including its “Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte,” and said it is introducing a new “Meal Deal” this season – a combo that offers customers a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich; hash browns; and a medium hot or iced coffee for a total of $6.
The move follows a trend of similar offerings from other fast-food chains now looking to entice cost-conscientious customers.
Data from Circana shows the number of people eating out dropped 2.6 percent for the first half of 2024 — a decline the research firm attributes to climbing consumer debt and high inflation.
“From the hearty $6 Meal Deal to our new Dunkalatte, we’ve put together a lineup that not only celebrates the best of the season but delivers exceptional value with offerings you can only find at Dunkin’,” Beth Turenne, the company’s vice president of category marketing, said in a statement.
Material from previous Globe reports was used in this story.
Christopher Gavin can be reached at christopher.gavin@globe.com.