Popeyes may be famous for fried chicken, but the brand’s Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich is certainly a fan favorite whenever it returns to the menu. It follows the same winning formula that made the chicken sandwich a hit: a crispy fried protein, a buttery brioche bun, pickles, and a bold sauce. But the difference is the star ingredient: the seafood. If you’re curious about what’s actually in it, how it tastes, and whether it’s worth ordering, here’s a full breakdown of my experience trying it for the first time.

What Is the Popeyes Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich?

Think of this sandwich as Popeyes’ seafood version of its well-known chicken sandwich. Instead of chicken, though, you get a flounder filet that’s seasoned, breaded, and fried until golden and crunchy on the outside. It usually appears as a limited-time or seasonal item, especially during Lent, when seafood options become more popular. That limited availability is part of why fans get excited whenever it comes back.

The sandwich typically includes:

• A wild-caught flounder filet

• Louisiana-style seasoning

• Crispy fried coating

• Toasted buttery brioche bun

• Pickles

• Spicy mayo

Popeyes Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich Review

The Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich is pretty tasty, which was a surprise to me. It delivers a balance of crispy breading exterior and soft, buttery brioche bread that makes it feel more satisfying than a typical fast-food fish option. The first thing you notice is the crunchy golden coating on the fish, which adds a crisp bite and a lightly seasoned flavor without overpowering the seafood itself. Then, of course, there's the punchiness from the spicy sauce. 

Once you get past the breading, the flounder is soft, flaky, and tender, almost pulling apart in layers as you bite into it. The fish has a mild, clean taste that avoids the overly “fishy” flavor some people worry about, making it approachable even for casual seafood eaters. But don't get it twisted: it's still seafood. It doesn't taste or feel like chicken, or anything like that. 

The brioche bun adds a noticeable contrast. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and buttery, which helps mellow out the savory fried coating and keeps the sandwich feeling balanced instead of heavy. I really enjoyed the taste as well as the pillow texture. 

The pickles bring a pop of acidity and crunch that cuts through the richness, adding brightness to each bite. Overall, the flavor leans comforting with that touch of heat from the sauce, which is needed in my opinion. The combination of crispy exterior, flaky fish, and pillowy bun makes the sandwich easy to eat and satisfying. 

That said, you have to eat it fresh, straight from Popeyes, while the coating is still hot and crunchy. It isn't nearly as tasty if you wait around. I tried some reheated the next day, and while (shockingly) not horrible, it's simply not as good.

What’s the Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich Made Of?

Let’s break down the layers so you know exactly what you’re biting into.

The Fish

The sandwich uses flounder, a mild white fish known for being light and flaky. If you’re someone who doesn’t love strong fish flavors, that’s good news. Flounder has a gentle taste, so it doesn’t feel overpowering or overly “seafoody.”

Because Popeyes uses a whole filet instead of a processed fish patty, the texture feels more natural and substantial. You’ll notice slight variations in shape and thickness, which makes it feel closer to something you’d get at a casual seafood spot rather than a standard fast-food sandwich.

Classic Flounder Fish Sandwich Calories and Nutritional Information

Calories: 681.4 kcal

Fat: 35.4 grams

Saturated Fat: 8.6 grams

Trans Fat: 0.8 grams

Cholesterol: 78.5 mg

Sodium: 2,385.9 mg

Carbohydrates: 65.7 grams

Fiber: 2.9 grams

Sugar: 8.1 grams

Proteins: 25.6 grams

How Much Does the Fish Sandwich Cost?

Based on my location in San Diego, the à la carte sandwich is $5.99, while the regular combo (which comes with the sandwich, one regular side, and one regular drink) is $9.99, and then the large combo comes with two regular sides, one drink, and the spicy flounder fish sandwich costs $11.99. Prices may vary.

Ingredients

Brioche Bun
Enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), malted barley flour, water, sugar, yeast, contains less than 2% of coloring (corn flour, soybean oil, spices turmeric and paprika), mono/diglycerides, natural flavor, dough conditioner (wheat gluten, malted wheat flour, deactivated yeast), enzymes (wheat flour, enzymes), glaze (water, vegetable oil, vegetable proteins, dextrose, maltodextrins, starch), cultured wheat flour, natural butter flavor, potato flour, salt, soybean oil.

When Crumbl Cookies drops a new flavor, it rarely flies under the radar. The brand’s weekly rotating menu has turned cookies into a full-on event, with fans checking the lineup every Monday and planning trips around limited-time releases. One of the most buzzed-about flavors to hit that rotation recently is the Dubai Chocolate Cookie, a rich, layered dessert inspired by a viral global chocolate trend.

This cookie isn’t just another chocolate-heavy option. It pulls from a Middle Eastern–inspired flavor profile that’s been dominating social media: milk chocolate paired with pistachio cream and crispy shredded pastry. Crumbl’s version translates that concept into its signature oversized cookie format, creating something that feels indulgent, trendy, and noticeably different from the brand’s usual lineup.

Below is a closer look at what the Dubai Chocolate Cookie is, how it tastes, and why it stood out during its limited run.

What Is the Dubai Chocolate Cookie from Crumbl?

The Dubai Chocolate Cookie starts with a dense, brownie-style chocolate cookie base. Instead of being cakey, the texture is rich and fudgy, designed to support multiple layers without falling apart. Mine was fudgy but also a bit dry. The cookie was lackluster and didn't have a lot of flavor, especially when compared to the pistachio and milk chocolate exterior.

Inside and on top, the cookie features a pistachio cream filling, adding a nutty sweetness that balances the deep chocolate flavor. It’s finished with a layer of crispy kataifi pastry (those thin, shredded strands of dough that bake up light and crunchy) plus a smooth and thick milk chocolate coating and a drizzle of more pistachio cream.

The result is a cookie that eats more like a plated dessert than a traditional bakery cookie. Each bite combines soft, gooey chocolate with creamy filling and a crisp topping that adds contrast and texture.

Why Is It Called “Dubai Chocolate?”

The name is a nod to a dessert trend that gained massive popularity online over the past few years. The original “Dubai chocolate” concept typically refers to milk chocolate filled with pistachio cream and crispy pastry, often inspired by Middle Eastern sweets that use nuts and shredded dough for texture.

Crumbl adapted that flavor combination into multiple forms. They've done a Dubai brownie, cookie, and even a chocolate cheesecake! The name definitely plays on the global inspiration, which fits neatly with Crumbl’s strategy of tapping into viral food moments.

How It Tastes (And How to Eat It)

Flavor-wise, this cookie is very rich and dessert-forward. Chocolate is the dominant note. The thick layer of milk chocolate coats the exterior and plays a big part in the overall flavor. The pistachio cream brings a mild sweetness and nuttiness that cuts through the cocoa (plus that beautiful shade of green), while the kataifi topping adds a subtle toasted flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Temperature makes a difference. This cookie is best served cold. Chilled, the layers become more distinct — the pistachio cream firms up slightly, the chocolate tastes deeper, and the crunch stands out more. Fans of Crumbl often recommend trying this one both ways if possible.

Because of its richness, this is a cookie many people split or save for later rather than eating in one sitting.

Dubai Chocolate Cookie at a Glance

• Cookie style: Brownie-style chocolate cookie

• Filling: Pistachio cream

• Topping: Crispy kataifi pastry, milk chocolate, pistachio drizzle

• Flavor profile: Rich chocolate, nutty, sweet, layered

• Texture: Gooey center, creamy filling, crunchy topping

• Serving temperature: Served warm, also popular chilled

• Availability: Limited-time weekly flavor

• Typical price: Varies by location. My store is $4.99 for a regular cookie, but this had an added fee of $1.49. The cost is $6.48 for the cookie.

• Best for: Chocolate lovers, pistachio fans, dessert sharing

How It Fits Into Crumbl’s Weekly Menu Strategy

Crumbl’s rotating menu model thrives on urgency. Cookies appear for one week, then vanish, creating a sense of “try it now or miss out.” The Dubai Chocolate Cookie fits perfectly into that model because it feels special and trend-driven rather than everyday. They've brought on multiple Dubai chocolate iterations to play on that virality.

Unlike simpler flavors that rely on nostalgia, this cookie leans into novelty. It’s visually striking, layered, and easy to talk about — all qualities that drive social sharing and word-of-mouth. Even people who don’t normally gravitate toward chocolate cookies were curious because of the pistachio and pastry elements.

This is also the type of cookie Crumbl is more likely to bring back as a fan favorite rather than keep permanently, reinforcing its reputation for limited-time indulgence.

Is the Dubai Chocolate Cookie Worth Trying?

If you enjoy rich desserts, pistachio flavors, or cookies that feel closer to a bakery pastry than a snack, the answer is yes. This is one of those Crumbl flavors that justifies the hype because it offers something genuinely different from the standard chocolate rotation.

That said, it’s not subtle. The cookie is sweet, heavy, and indulgent, making it better suited for sharing or savoring slowly. Those who prefer lighter, less sweet cookies may find it overwhelming, but for fans of decadent desserts, it’s a standout. The milk chocolate exterior creates a prominent flavor and makes it a bit difficult to cut into. The chocolate cookie itself is somewhat dry and boring.

Dubai Chocolate Cookie Ingredients List

Pistachio creme (vegetable oil (palm), sugar, pistachios (15%), nonfat dry milk, whey powder, lactose, emulsifier soya lecithin, artificial flavour.), Milk chocolate chips (sugar; vegetable fat (palm kernel and/or palm); nonfat dry milk; cocoa powder; whole milk powder; soy lecithin; vanillin (artificial flavor)), All purpose flour (bleached wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), Butter (pasteurized cream, salt), Brown sugar (sugar, cane molasses, and invert sugar), Brownie mix (sugar, enriched bleached flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), semi-sweet chocolate chips (sugar, unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter, whole milk powder, soy lecithin [emulsifier], vanilla extract), cocoa (processed with alkali), soybean oil, bittersweet chocolate chips (unsweetened chocolate, sugar, cocoa butter, soy lecithin [emulsifier], vanilla extract), milk chocolate chips (sugar, unsweetened chocolate, whole milk powder, cocoa butter, soy lecithin [emulsifier], vanilla extract), salt, artificial flavor, baking soda. ), Sugar, Liquid whole egg, citric acid, Kadayif (wheat flour type 650, water, salt), Royal dutch cocoa (high fat cocoa processed with alkali), Bleached wheat flour enriched (bleachedwheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), malted barley flour], salt, bakingsoda, corn starch), Corn syrup (light corn syrup, contains 2% or less of vanilla extract, salt), Canola oil, Imitation vanilla flavoring (water, vanillin, caramel color, ethyl vanillin, and 0.1% potassium sorbate (added as a preservative). Salt (salt, sodium thiosulfate, tricalcium phosphate, dextrose, potassium iodide 0.006%, sodium bicarbonate, potassium iodide 0.006%, yellow prussiate of soda)

Final Thoughts

The Dubai Chocolate Cookie shows how Crumbl continues to push beyond classic cookie flavors and lean into global dessert trends. By combining a brownie-style base with pistachio cream and crispy pastry, the brand created a cookie that feels both modern and luxurious.

It’s not just another weekly flavor — it’s an example of how viral food culture influences mainstream menus. If it returns to the lineup, it’s worth grabbing at least once, whether you’re a longtime Crumbl fan or just curious about what all the buzz is about. I think it's a bit pricey and isn't incredibly impressive, but it's for the novelty of it.

 If you’ve spent any time wandering the snack aisles of Costco, you’ve probably seen those giant 40-ounce containers of Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans. Whether you’ve passed them by or already tossed a tub in your cart, this indulgent snack deserves a closer look. With a rich, buttery coating and that classic pecan crunch, these praline pecans are a fan favorite for a reason, and not just during the holidays.

2.5 Pounds of Sweet, Nutty Goodness

First off, let’s talk about quantity. This isn’t your typical small bag of nuts. Costco goes big, and this product is no exception. The Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans come in a 40-ounce (2.5-pound) container, making them perfect for sharing, gift baskets, or just long-lasting snacking. It’s the kind of thing that seems like a treat when you open it, but quickly becomes a staple once you realize how versatile they are. It's easy to want one or two to nibble on, then realize you had ... a lot more than that.

Related reading: Costco Food Court: Menu, Hours, and More

Ingredients List for Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans

The ingredient list is straightforward: pecans, sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, sea salt, and natural flavor. No preservatives, no artificial dyes, no chemical additives. Just classic ingredients that come together to create that signature praline flavor. The coating is rich and sweet, with a buttery finish that doesn’t overpower the natural nutty flavor of the pecans. 

Flavor Profile and Texture: Sweet, Crunchy, Buttery

These aren’t your average, plain store-bought nuts. Each pecan is generously coated in a praline glaze that hardens just enough to give you a satisfying crunch. I must note, though, that there are the occasional extremely hard bits, so be careful as you chew.

The sweetness comes primarily from brown sugar and corn syrup, while the butter and sea salt give it a more balanced, nuanced flavor. You get a burst of caramelized sugar with every bite, but you still taste the depth and earthiness of the pecan underneath. The texture is a scrumptious balance of crunchy exterior and slightly chewy nut, making them more than just a sweet snack. It's an experience for your senses, from the comforting aroma to the rush of sugar to the snappiness under your teeth. 

Related reading: Costco Royal Asia Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

Ways to Use the Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans

You can snack on these straight out of the container. Trust me, that's mainly how I eat them. But you, if you have restraint, you may also find it incredibly versatile in recipes. 

• Sprinkle them over a salad with arugula, goat cheese, and vinaigrette for a sweet crunch. 
• Add them to a cheese board or charcuterie platter for a touch of sugar next to savory meats and cheeses. 
• Chop them up and use them as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or even roasted vegetables. 
• They also shine as a dessert topper: think vanilla ice cream, apple pie, or brownies with a praline pecan finish.

The Price and the Value

These are priced around $15 to $17 per container, depending on your Costco location. Specialty candied nuts at gourmet shops or farmers’ markets can easily run you $8 to $10 for a single half-pound bag or around $20 for a 1-pound bag. 

Costco’s version gives you a stellar bang for your buck. If you enjoy sweet snacks or are planning a party, potluck, or holiday spread, this big tub goes a long way. It also adds a touch of decadence wherever it’s served.

Nutrition Facts Per 1-Ounce Serving of Praline Pecans

• 150 calories 
• 11 grams of total fat 
• 1 gram of saturated fat 
• 45 milligrams of sodium 
• 15 grams of total carbohydrates 
• 1 gram of dietary fiber 
• 14 grams of total sugar 
• 13 grams of added sugar 
• 1 gram of protein

Let’s be real: these are a treat. Each serving (about one ounce) has roughly 150 calories, with a decent dose of fat and sugar. They’re not low-calorie or keto-friendly, but they’re also not pretending to be. Pecans themselves are high in healthy fats, and when eaten in moderation, this snack can be part of a balanced approach to treating yourself. 

Storage Tips

Because of the butter and sugar content, you’ll want to store the container in a cool, dry place. A pantry is fine, but if you live in a hot or humid area, you might consider keeping them in the fridge to preserve the texture and freshness. They’re shelf-stable for several weeks (or months if unopened), but good luck keeping them around that long—they tend to disappear fast.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth Buying? Absolutely.

The Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans are definitely worth purchasing from Costco. They work as a snack, an add-on, a dessert topping, or even a thoughtful host gift. If you have a sweet tooth or enjoy nut-based snacks, this is one of those products that will earn a permanent place on your “must-buy” list.

Whether you’re planning a holiday spread, looking for a snack to elevate your daily routine, or just want to keep something sweet and crunchy on hand, these praline pecans deliver. They’re proof that sometimes the best treats come in big plastic tubs. It's easy to go through a large container if you have a few members in your family or if you're planning a party or function.

If you’re planning a Disneyland Anaheim visit and wondering whether you can bring your own food into the parks, the answer is yes. Disneyland actually allows guests to bring snacks, meals, and non-alcoholic drinks into both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. That means you don’t have to rely entirely on theme-park dining prices, and you’re not stuck waiting in long food lines every time someone gets hungry. For families, budgeting travelers, or anyone with dietary needs, it’s an extremely helpful rule to take advantage of.

Disney knows that a full day in the parks can be long and unpredictable, especially if you’re traveling with kids. People need snacks at unexpected times, and not everyone wants the same thing. So whether you want a simple peanut butter sandwich or a full lunch packed ahead of time, you’re usually welcome to bring it along.

What Disneyland Allows

Disney’s official policy states that you can bring most food and drink items into the park as long as they’re intended for personal consumption. This includes sandwiches, fruits, packaged snacks, granola bars, non-alcoholic drinks, and refillable water bottles. Most store-bought snacks are totally fine. A simple lunch packed in an insulated bag generally won’t draw any attention at security.

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, bringing your own food is often the easiest way to navigate meals during a long visit. Many guests pack allergy-friendly snacks, gluten-free options, or small heat-safe meals for toddlers who can’t eat restaurant food easily.

The only real limitation is that food can’t be stored in hard-sided coolers or anything oversized. Otherwise, most everyday lunch items are no problem.

What Disneyland Does Not Allow

Disneyland does have a few rules to keep the park safe and manageable. Glass containers are not allowed, and neither is alcohol. Coolers must remain within the size guidelines, and loose ice isn’t permitted because it melts and creates water spills. Ice packs or frozen water bottles are totally fine.

Security will often just ask what something is and make sure it complies with the rules. If something isn’t allowed, they’ll ask you to leave it outside, but this usually only applies to coolers or glass—not normal lunches.

What Foods Work Best for a Disneyland Day

Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking, riding, and waiting in line, the best foods are ones that hold up well without refrigeration and can be eaten quickly. Things like wraps, fruit, protein bars, and nuts all travel easily and don’t take up much space. Sandwiches are reliable because they’re easy to portion, stay reasonably fresh, and don’t require utensils.

If you’re bringing fruit, choose easy grab-and-go items such as oranges, apples, or grapes. Bananas are fine too, but they bruise easily if they’re thrown into backpacks with other items. Foods like string cheese or hummus cups are also great, as long as you have an ice pack or insulated bag.

You don’t need to pack everything for the whole day—sometimes just having a couple of trustworthy snacks on hand prevents crankiness or impulse spending when hunger hits suddenly.

Smart Food and Drink Items to Bring Into Disneyland

• insulated water bottle

• small soft-sided cooler or insulated lunch bag

• reusable ice packs or frozen water bottles

• easy handheld snacks (granola bars, pretzels, crackers)

• fresh fruit that travels well (apples, grapes, mandarins)

• simple sandwiches or wraps

• protein snacks (cheese sticks, nuts, protein bars)

How to Store Food

Hot days and long hours are a reality in Anaheim, California, so storing food properly matters. An insulated lunch bag or small cooler backpack is usually enough. Ice packs keep food fresh, and frozen water bottles pull double duty by keeping drinks cold and food cool.

If you’re packing items that could melt (like chocolate or cheese), store them near ice packs and try to keep your bag out of direct sunlight while you’re in line. A lightweight backpack usually works just fine, and many parents already carry diaper bags that can store snacks easily.

Avoid storing anything that leaks or spills easily. Soft containers and reusable bags help keep things tidy, especially as you’re opening food multiple times throughout the day.

Where Can You Eat Brought-In Food?

There’s no designated “packed lunch only” area. You can eat your snacks almost anywhere that isn’t obstructing walkways. Many visitors enjoy their food in outdoor seating areas near quick-service restaurants, which generally have open tables that don’t require a purchase. These spots are convenient if you need shade or want to sit while everyone eats, as long as you can find an open spot.

Others prefer benches in quieter corners of the park, although things aren't that quiet these days. If you happen to be in a long line, small snacks are often eaten while waiting. The park is pretty flexible—just be respectful of space and time, especially during peak dining hours when tables fill quickly.

Keeping Food Fresh Throughout Your Disney Day

The best approach is to pack only what you realistically think you’ll eat. Water bottles are essential, especially reusable insulated ones that can be refilled throughout the day. Staying hydrated is a big part of feeling good at Disneyland, especially in warm weather.

Foods stay fresher when packed snugly so they don’t get crushed. If you’re planning a full lunch, consider dividing items into smaller containers so you don’t open everything at once. That way, snacks stay fresh rather than drying out in the sun.

Practical Tips to Make Bringing Food to Disneyland Easy

A little preparation can make your day smoother:

• Bring an insulated water bottle and refill it throughout the day.

• Pack simple foods that don’t require utensils.

• Keep cold foods near ice packs.

• Use a soft cooler or lunch bag.

• Avoid heavy, messy items that are hard to carry around.

The goal is convenience—food should help your day, not weigh you down.

What About Disney California Adventure?

The same rules apply in Disney California Adventure. You can bring almost any snacks or personal food items into either park. Many families hop between both parks while carrying one backpack of food for the day. It’s very normal and very common.

Final Thoughts

So, can you bring food into Disneyland? Absolutely. Bringing your own snacks and drinks saves money, reduces wait time, and keeps everyone comfortable throughout a long theme-park day. Even if you decide to enjoy special Disney treats inside the parks, having your own food on hand is a smart, flexible option that makes a noticeable difference.

Packing a few reliable items keeps your energy up, helps kids avoid meltdowns, and gives you more control over what you’re eating—even in the middle of a magical but busy Disney day.