The warmer weather brings the chance to open the restaurant patio and establish fresh menus to create summer food trends. However, the latter of these may be a little more difficult and require some extra effort. It's vital that eateries stay on top of summer foods trends and curate a menu that's marketable and manageable.
Restauranteurs must balance ambitious upgrades with the limitations of the supply chain. This makes the task particularly challenging, but management can find innovative new ways to dive into summer by listening to customer feedback and sourcing from local providers. Keeping your summer restaurant menu trendy is easy when you follow these four steps.
One of the biggest trends taking over eateries is the popularity of plant-based foods. These foods are replacing meat-based dishes as some of the top-selling selections in restaurants, and it's indicative of a much bigger trend. According to research done by Gallup, sales for plant-based products are on the rise - in both grocery stores and restaurants. Chefs can take advantage of this trend by investing in seasonal summer fruits and veggies.
Another popular innovation is the introduction of international fusion via new spices and flavors. Restaurants can make their summer menu an exotic experience by adding some chilies from Thailand or spices from Mumbai. These little updates can make a familiar dish something entirely novel, and customers will love the new take on a food they already love. Chefs should seek out spices that are affordable and accessible and find ways to work them into the menu.
CBD - short for cannabinoids - has proven to be more than a fad. Customers report that it offers relief from pain, depression, and anxiety, so it's no surprise that people are interested in foods that include this ingredient. Restaurants can exploit the trend with CBD-infused menu items, but they should ensure that it's legal first. Using an illegal substance would be a major liability that could lead to a restaurant insurance claim. Avoid any issues with law enforcement or your restaurant insurance by confirming compliance with all local laws.
Along with an increase in meat-free foods has come a renewed interest in alcohol-free drinks. People want to have fun and experience new flavors, but they want to do so without the side effects caused by booze. Mocktails offer a great opportunity to serve these clients and provide them with the best of both worlds. Mocktails also allow restaurants to expand their clientele and serve highly profitable drinks to customers who are under 21 or committed to sobriety. It's a win-win for restaurants and their patrons, and it's the perfect summer innovation.
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