When someone greets you with a playful “What’s shaking, bacon?”, it’s not just a hello—it’s a spark of fun, a casual icebreaker, and a chance to connect warmly. This quirky phrase has a way of making people smile, but let’s be honest: you can’t use it every time. That’s why having a list of Similar Phrases to “What’s Shaking Bacon?” is like carrying extra spices in your pocket—you can always season the conversation differently depending on the moment.
When I first heard someone say what’s shaking bacon, I laughed because it felt so quirky, amusing, and instantly memorable. Over time, I noticed how people use similar phrases in casual settings like the office or when catching up with friends. Instead of just saying hello or “how are you,” some prefer fun twists like what’s up buttercup, hey there hot stuff, or even yo dude. These informal lines add a touch of humor, wit, and wordplay, making everyday conversations feel lighter. A simple “sup” or “how’s it going” often sparks a smile, and for me, these little exchanges help build rapport, warmth, and a stronger connection.
There’s such a variety of comparable options, from hiya honey, what’s cookin good lookin, or how’s tricks kiddo, to playful spins like what’s the buzz honeybee or what’s the story rockstar. Each has its own vibe, carrying tones of affectionate, flirty, or even goofy energy. The beauty of these expressions is their ability to bring cheer, break the ice, and make interactions more engaging, whether with colleagues or a close partner.
I’ve often used phrases like my dude, chief, or dawg to keep things lively, and at times, more stylish ones like smooth operator or superstar. These slangy, rhyming, and sometimes whimsical greetings aren’t just about language—they create optimistic moments, spread joy, and remind us that even small words can carry charm, caring, and sincerity in our social interactions.
1. “What’s cookin’, good lookin’?”
Best Use: When chatting casually with friends or partners.
Not To Use: In professional settings—it’s too flirty.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s on the menu today?”
Example: “Hey Sara, what’s cookin’, good lookin’?”
2. “How’s it hanging?”
Best Use: Relaxed, informal chats.
Not To Use: With elders or in serious conversations.
Other Ways to Say: “How’s it going?”
Example: “Yo, Mike—how’s it hanging?”
3. “What’s the word, bird?”
Best Use: Fun and quirky moments.
Not To Use: When someone’s upset—it might feel dismissive.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s new?”
Example: “Morning, Jess! What’s the word, bird?”
4. “Sup, buttercup?”
Best Use: With close friends or siblings.
Not To Use: In meetings or first impressions.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s up?”
Example: “Sup, buttercup? Haven’t seen you in days!”
5. “How’s tricks?”
Best Use: Old-school but charming with friends.
Not To Use: If the person won’t understand slang.
Other Ways to Say: “How’s life treating you?”
Example: “Hey Tom, how’s tricks these days?”
6. “What’s the scoop?”
Best Use: When you’re curious about updates.
Not To Use: In very formal chats.
Other Ways to Say: “Any news?”
Example: “So, what’s the scoop on your weekend plans?”
7. “What’s the buzz?”
Best Use: Casual settings or group hangouts.
Not To Use: During sad or heavy moments.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s going on?”
Example: “Hey, team—what’s the buzz today?”
8. “What’s new, crew?”
Best Use: Perfect for group greetings.
Not To Use: In one-on-one professional talks.
Other Ways to Say: “How’s everyone doing?”
Example: “What’s new, crew? Everyone ready for the trip?”
9. “Yo, what’s poppin’?”
Best Use: Hip, casual vibe with friends.
Not To Use: With elders—it may feel out of place.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s happening?”
Example: “Yo, what’s poppin’? Haven’t seen you in weeks!”
10. “How’s the vibe?”
Best Use: Great for checking energy in a room.
Not To Use: In very traditional conversations.
Other Ways to Say: “How’s the mood?”
Example: “How’s the vibe at the party?”
11. “What’s the plan, Stan?”
Best Use: Fun way to ask about schedules.
Not To Use: With people who don’t like rhyming jokes.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s the plan?”
Example: “So, what’s the plan, Stan? Dinner or movie?”
12. “What’s the sitch?”
Best Use: Quick check on a situation.
Not To Use: Formal or professional contexts.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s the situation?”
Example: “Hey, what’s the sitch with tomorrow’s meeting?”
13. “What’s cracking?”
Best Use: Casual check-in with buddies.
Not To Use: In overly formal settings.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s up?”
Example: “Long time no see! What’s cracking?”
14. “How goes it?”
Best Use: Friendly but versatile—fits casual and semi-formal.
Not To Use: With someone who prefers straightforward talk.
Other Ways to Say: “How are you doing?”
Example: “Hey, Paul—how goes it?”
15. “What’s the haps?”
Best Use: Informal, fun tone.
Not To Use: If the person dislikes slang.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s happening?”
Example: “What’s the haps this weekend?”
16. “Yo, what’s good?”
Best Use: With younger crowds or friends.
Not To Use: Business calls.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s going on?”
Example: “Yo, what’s good, fam?”
17. “What’s fresh?”
Best Use: Casual and cool vibes.
Not To Use: In highly professional environments.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s new?”
Example: “What’s fresh in your world lately?”
18. “How’s life treating you?”
Best Use: Warm and caring check-in.
Not To Use: If you need a short greeting.
Other Ways to Say: “How have you been?”
Example: “Hey Sam, how’s life treating you these days?”
19. “What’s good in the hood?”
Best Use: Playful, neighborhood slang.
Not To Use: If tone doesn’t fit the relationship.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s up around here?”
Example: “What’s good in the hood? Haven’t seen folks out lately.”
20. “What’s up, buttercup?”
Best Use: Cute greeting for friends.
Not To Use: In workplaces.
Other Ways to Say: “How’s it going?”
Example: “What’s up, buttercup? How was your day?”
21. “What’s the update?”
Best Use: Curious about progress or news.
Not To Use: If you don’t actually want details.
Other Ways to Say: “Got any updates?”
Example: “What’s the update on your project?”
22. “How’s everything rolling?”
Best Use: Light-hearted check-in.
Not To Use: In very serious moments.
Other Ways to Say: “How are things?”
Example: “How’s everything rolling with your new job?”
23. “What’s the dealio?”
Best Use: Funny, playful mood.
Not To Use: Serious or tense situations.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s the deal?”
Example: “Hey, what’s the dealio with Friday’s party?”
24. “What’s up, champ?”
Best Use: Encouraging tone with friends or kids.
Not To Use: With strangers—it may feel too personal.
Other Ways to Say: “How are you doing?”
Example: “What’s up, champ? Ready for the game?”
25. “What’s happening, captain?”
Best Use: Fun rhyming phrase for greetings.
Not To Use: In professional spaces.
Other Ways to Say: “What’s happening?”
Example: “Hey, what’s happening, captain?”
Conclusion
Phrases like “What’s shaking, bacon?” are more than just words—they’re an invitation to connect with humor, warmth, and care. By swapping it out for any of these 30 alternatives, you can keep your greetings fresh, inclusive, and fun. I’ve personally used many of these in everyday conversations, and I’ve noticed how even a tiny twist in words can brighten someone’s mood. Remember, the right phrase in the right moment can turn a plain hello into a memory.
10 Editor’s Picks (and Why People Choose Them)
- “What’s cookin’, good lookin’?” – Fun, flirty, timeless.
- “How’s it hanging?” – Classic casual tone.
- “What’s the word, bird?” – Quirky and memorable.
- “What’s the scoop?” – Perfect when fishing for news.
- “Yo, what’s poppin’?” – Youthful and cool.
- “How’s the vibe?” – Great for group energy check.
- “What’s the sitch?” – Quick and to the point.
- “What’s cracking?” – Smooth and casual.
- “What’s the dealio?” – Funny, always gets a smile.
- “What’s happening, captain?” – Playful rhyme that sticks.
