Will Popeyes' Latest Offering Start a Fish Sandwich War?

Back in the comparatively carefree days of 2019, it seemed like the only thing eaters had to worry about was which fast food chain made the best chicken sandwich. In the roughly 18 months since Popeyes fired the opening salvo in what many now refer to as the "chicken sandwich wars," we've reached a point where even Jimmy John's and Boston Market think that they have something to gain by piggybacking on the craze that the Louisiana-style chicken joint started.

If Popeyes' latest effort is even a fraction as successful as their chicken sandwich, we could very well have something of a fast food naval engagement on our hands. Why, because Popeyes is introducing the Cajun Flounder Sandwich to menus across the country, starting February 11.

Based on information from a press release, it looks like this take on the fish sandwich is inspired in equal parts by the Pacific Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The former body of water is the source of the sandwich's flounder, while the Cajun seasoning (a blend of both mild and spicy tastes) pairs with pickles and a brioche bun to round out what could end up being the catch of the day for some time to come.

Given that McDonalds' Filet-o-Fish is often the butt of jokes, there are probably plenty of folks skeptical about fast food fish sandwiches on a conceptual level, even if it is from Popeyes. To that end, they're introducing the novel concept of "Sandwich Insurance" on launch day. That means anyone who orders the Cajun Flounder Sandwich through the Popeyes app can add the celebrated Chicken Sandwich to their cart for just 10 cents. Depending on your taste for Popeyes' take on fish, that could mean ending up with two decent sandwiches for the price of $4.59.

So if by this time in 2022 we're talking about the "fish sandwich wars," just remember who reeled everyone in first. Who knows? Maybe posing with fish sandwiches instead of fish will become the next big Tinder trend.

The Cajun Flounder Sandwich will only be around while supplies last, but it's safe to assume that if it's a hit, it may return or even become a permanent menu staple. At the very least, you can have a Cajun fast-food fish sandwich during Lent.