Additional Coverage:
- Dunkin’ debuted a limited-edition menu featuring Ben Affleck’s go-to order. Here are the 6 items, ranked from worst to best. (businessinsider.com)
In what might be the most Boston collaboration since the Red Sox won the World Series, Dunkin’ Donuts has teamed up with none other than local boy made good, Ben Affleck, to roll out a limited-edition menu dubbed “DunKings.” While it’s common nowadays to see celebrities partnering with brands, this match feels like a home run—or should we say, a slam dunk. The partnership, sparked by Affleck’s appearance in a high-profile Super Bowl commercial, has culminated in a menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious, though not without its hits and misses according to enthusiasts.
The “DunKings” menu, a playful nod to both the brand and Affleck’s newfound title among Dunkin’ aficionados, boasts six unique items with half of them being icy cold treats to beat the heat. From meticulously crafted iced beverages to innovative new snacks, it’s clear that Dunkin’ Donuts pulled out all the stops for this star-studded collaboration. Yet, within this mix of menu innovations, some have risen to the top, capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of fans nationwide.
Leading the pack, Ben Affleck’s personal favorite, the DunKings Iced Coffee, has been heralded as the crown jewel of the collection. Perhaps it’s the blend of premium beans or the perfect ratio of coffee to cream, but this drink has fans and critics alike singing its praises, dubbing it the must-try item for any Dunkin’ devotee. It seems that Affleck not only has a keen eye for film but also an uncanny knack for selecting a winning coffee blend.
On the flip side, not every item on the “DunKings” menu can claim the same acclaim. The Mixed Berry Beats Dunkin’ Refresher, which promised a vibrant fusion of flavors, unfortunately fell flat, with many deeming it the least favorite of the lineup. Critics argue that this beverage might have missed the mark in balancing sweetness with refreshing tartness, a crucial element for any fruit-infused drink.
The origins of this innovative menu trace back to Affleck’s viral Super Bowl commercial, which not only featured the star in a humorous light but also brought into play his wife, Jennifer Lopez, best friend, Matt Damon, and the legendary Tom Brady. The ad, ripe with nods to Affleck’s Boston roots and his genuine love for Dunkin’ Donuts, set the stage for this unique collaboration. It’s a testament to the power of authentic celebrity endorsements—when the star aligns, quite literally, with a brand they genuinely cherish, magic can happen.
In essence, the “DunKings” menu is more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a celebration of personal taste, friendship, and a nod to the enduring charm of local favorites making it big. As Dunkin’ Donuts continues to innovate and collaborate, it’s clear that the brand knows its way around both the coffee pot and the culture pot, blending the two to create offerings that resonate with and excite its loyal customers. Whether you’re in it for Affleck’s top pick or just curious to try the most buzzed-about items, the “DunKings” menu is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most memorable flavors are born from the most unexpected partners.