Omaha Steaks, a 107-year-old company renowned for its premium meats, has taken an unexpected leap into the literary world with the release of its first-ever romance novel, Certified Tender. Launched on April 1, 2025, as part of an April Fool’s marketing campaign, the book blends culinary passion with a love story, marking a unique and playful extension of the brand’s mission to bring people together over food.
A “Meat-Cute” Romance
Written by Omaha Steaks’ in-house creative team under the pen name Bianca Tournedos (a nod to the French filet mignon dish Tournedos Rossini), Certified Tender tells the story of Kate, a single woman searching for recipes and romance online. She meets Nick, a butcher who goes by “OmahaSteakGuy1917,” in a charming “meat-cute” scenario filled with cooking tips sourced from Omaha Steaks’ blog, The Block. The novel is peppered with brand Easter eggs, such as references to Omaha Steaks’ USDA Tender filet mignons and nods to company executives.
A Culinary Pairing: The Meat Cute Collection
To complement the novel’s release, Omaha Steaks introduced the $99 Meat Cute Collection—a date-night-themed package featuring filet mignons, gourmet steakhouse fries, and a bottle of Drawbridge Cabernet Sauvignon. This pairing offers consumers a unique dinner-and-a-novel experience that combines storytelling with culinary indulgence.
Marketing Innovation and Consumer Engagement
Initially conceived as an April Fool’s prank, Certified Tender has evolved into a real marketing initiative aimed at engaging new audiences. The book taps into the popularity of romance novels and social media trends like BookTok and Bookstagram. By associating its products with themes of love and connection often found in books, Omaha Steaks is deepening its relationship with consumers through storytelling.
Free Download Available
The novel is available for free download on Omaha Steaks’ website, ensuring accessibility for both loyal customers and curious readers. While no additional titles in the “Meat-Cute Romance” series have been confirmed, Rempe hinted that positive consumer feedback could lead to more releases.
Industry Implications
Omaha Steaks’ venture into branded fiction raises intriguing questions about whether corporate-backed novels could become a new trend in marketing. As brands increasingly explore unconventional methods to engage consumers, storytelling through books may emerge as a powerful tool for creating memorable experiences.
