When it comes to marketing, Nintendo has never shied away from some truly creative ideas — and their food-related promotions were no exception. Over the years, we’ve seen Super Mario cross into kitchens through everything from spicy curries to unforgettable breakfast cereals. Let’s take a look back at some of the most iconic (and hilarious) Super Mario food commercials that left fans craving more.

1. The Nintendo Cereal System (1989)

Arguably the most memorable Mario-themed food product ever, the Nintendo Cereal System brought two legendary games to the breakfast table. This dual-cereal box featured:

• Super Mario Bros. Cereal — fruity, mushroom-shaped bites.
• The Legend of Zelda Cereal — berry-flavored pieces shaped like Link, swords, and shields.

The commercial featured an ultra-catchy jingle:
🎵 “Nin-TEN-do! It’s a cereal now! Nin-TEN-do! It’s a breakfast wow!” 🎵

With flashing lights, kids dancing, and animated Mario chaos, this ad was pure ‘80s gold. While the cereal itself wasn’t exactly gourmet, the experience of eating Mario for breakfast is fondly remembered by retro gamers.

2. Super Mario Pepsi Commercial (1998)

This quirky Japanese ad combined Super Mario 64 visuals with Pepsi’s energetic branding. Mario zipped through obstacles, collected coins, and somehow turned Pepsi into a power-up! The commercial even featured a hilarious cameo from Pepsi Man, adding even more chaotic charm.

3. Super Mario Curry (2017)

In Japan, Nintendo promoted a unique Super Mario Curry to celebrate the release of Super Mario Odyssey. The curry was bright red (like Mario’s cap) with a spicy kick that could rival a Fire Flower’s heat! The commercial leaned into Mario’s fiery personality, making it a must-see for fans. There was also a green curry version themed after Luigi — calmer and cooler for those who prefer a less intense flavor.

4. Super Mario Walkers Crisps Ad (1990s)

In the UK, Walkers Crisps (known as Lay’s elsewhere) teamed up with Nintendo for a Mario-themed promotion. The ad famously starred football legend Gary Lineker, who found himself battling classic Mario obstacles — including sneaky Koopas — just to snag a bag of Walkers Crisps!

Why These Ads Still Matter

These quirky commercials represent a golden age of video game marketing. Whether it’s the chaotic charm of the Nintendo Cereal System, the fiery madness of Super Mario Curry, or the slapstick antics in the Walkers Crisps Ad, each promo highlights how Nintendo turned Mario into more than just a game — he became a pop culture icon.

What’s your favorite Mario-themed food product or commercial? Share your memories in the comments below! 🍄🎮🍴