Eat 'n Park Smiley Cookie

We’ve recently relocated back to Pittsburgh and in our absence the two largest local family restaurant chains have upped the competition. For years kids have enjoyed a free smiley face cookie with each visit to Eat ‘n Park. It’s a pleasant way to end the meal. In our experience the employees have worked for the company for many years, know their clientelle and do a great job at dispensing of drinks and getting your food order correct.

King’s has been the red headed stepchild. Their restaurants have a cold feel and are little more like a diner then a restaurant. King’s prides itself on desserts, but lacked a mascot.

Frownie Brownie

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We’re astounded to discover their new mascot on a large billboard outisde of the restaurant – the marketing geniuses at King’s unleashed the Frownie Brownie. It’s a direct jab at Eat ‘n Park, it’s irreveerant and may appeal to those teenagers looking for an alternative to their parents E & P.

To me it’s stupid, copycat, look at me too…This is not an effective way to differentiate myself from the incumbent. Everytime I see it I’m reminded of Eat ‘n Park instead of King’s. I’m reminded that their agency lacked the creativity to find a new pitch.

BTW, we stopped in, tried the desserts, and they aren’t very good.