Frozen dessert makers can find inspiration for the next big thing by looking at what’s happening on restaurant menus across the United States.

Friendly's Ice Cream, Willbraham, Mass., also announced new breakfast, lunch and dinner meals, many of which contain dairy foods. 

Restaurant chain Red Robin mixes a cold beer with soft serve ice cream. 

Ice cream shakes are half-price all day today and after 8 p.m. throughout the summer at Sonic restaurants.

Pretzels with beer cheese dipping sauce, tomato Mozzarella salad and spicy beef queso with white Cheddar are new menu items.

Order bacon-wrapped Tater Tots in a blue cheese bechamel sauce or a parmesan-crusted walleye BLT sandwich at the new  Hot Dish restaurant. at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.