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November 4, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Program for Unique Holidays: November 2024

Program for Unique Holidays: November 2024

by David Klemt

I don’t know why but AI seems to think anyone who owns a restaurant or bar has a beard. AI-generated image.

Do you want to stand out from from other restaurants and bars in your area? Change how you think about your November holiday programming.

Several holidays are set against every date on the calendar, and this month is no exception. These holidays range from mainstream to esoteric.

Pay attention to the “weird” or unique holidays to raise eyebrows, carve out a niche for your restaurant or bar, and attract more guests. Why do what everyone else is already doing? Why program only around the same holidays as everyone else?

To provide a handful of examples, November boasts celebrations of the bold and pungent, Gose beer style, stuffing, and metal. Those are all things you can get creative and program around, and celebrate with your guests.

Of course, you shouldn’t try to celebrate every holiday, strange or otherwise. Focus on the days that are authentic to your brand; resonate with your guests; and help you grab attention on social media.

You’ll find suggestions for promotions below. However, the idea behind our monthly holiday promotions roundup is to inspire you and your team to get creative and come up with unique programming ideas.

For our October 2024 holidays list, click here.

November 8: Cook Something Bold and Pungent Day

This is the day to shine a spotlight on menu items that are heavy on aromatics, intense flavors, and presentations that demand attention.

November 9: Chaos Never Dies Day

If your bar or restaurant has a chill, relaxing vibe, this may be a great holiday for you and your guests. Chaos Never Dies Day is about mindfulness, relaxation, de-stressing, and, if healthy, socializing with friends and family.

Encourage your guests to visit your venue, silence their phones, and escape for a while.

November 10: Area Code Day

Area Code Day is an excellent time to celebrate your community. Showcase the local producers and collaborators with whom you partner, for example.

November 11: National Metal Day

Does your bar play metal? Do you feature live metal bands? Would you say your overall theme and ambiance is metal? Have I got a holiday for you…

November 15: National Philanthropy Day

Organize food, coat, or clothing drives. Highlight a charitable organization that your bar, restaurant, or hotel supports. This is one of the best days of the year for you and your guests to get involved with organizations that improve the community.

November 17: International Happy Gose Day

Several centuries old, Gose comes to us from Germany. Generally speaking, this wheat beer is tart, sour, spicy, and salty. Of course, craft brewers love to make styles their own, so there are Goses out there with other dominant characteristics.

Fans of this style of beer will tell you that it pairs well with everything. However, when developing your Gose promotion, keep grilled meats, seafood, roasted root vegetables, and tangy, powerful cheeses in mind.

November 21: National Stuffing Day

We all know that person whose main food focus on Thanksgiving (American, Canadian, or otherwise) is stuffing (or dressing, depending on preparation and pedantry). Sure, the other dishes are great, but they may just stab someone in the hand with their fork if they get between them and stuffing. In fact, we may be that person.

In the lead-up to Thanksgiving, task your kitchen with creating an irresistible stuffing (or dressing), and preparing it in multiple ways: waffled, sandwich, etc. Who knows? It may just lead to Thanksgiving Eve takeout orders.

November 22: National Farm-City Week

People celebrate this week to honor the farmers who help make American Thanksgiving possible. Of course, farmers deserve recognition for more than just one holiday.

This is a fantastic time of year to call attention to the farms and farmers with whom your restaurant partners.

November 29: Sinkie Day

Okay, so this one could be interesting. With all the prep and formality that can go into some people’s Thanksgiving celebrations, Sinkie Day offers welcome casualness. In simple terms, it’s about grabbing a bite while standing over a sink. Basically, rejecting a dining table, and eating anywhere else.

One spin you and your restaurant team can put on Sinkie Day is to highlight the items on your menu that are transported and eaten just about anywhere easily.

November 30: National Mason Jar Day

Cocktails, their alcohol-free counterparts, soft drinks like teas and sodas, kombucha, desserts, even salads… There’s a lot a creative bar or restaurant team can do with menu items, mason jars, and presentations.

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November 1, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

5 Books to Read this Month: November 2024

5 Books to Read this Month: November 2024

by David Klemt

Our November book selections focus on recognizing your own potential, developing and enhancing culinary and cocktail skills, and leadership.

To review the book recommendations from October 2024, click here.

Let’s jump in!

Soups, Salads, Sandwiches: A Cookbook

Who doesn’t appreciate dining on a soup, salad, and sandwich? It’s one of the most famous food-based trinities in the world. Each of these individual items is a blank canvas for creativity from your kitchen team; they can be as simple or complex and inventive as you and your team desire. A soup, salad, or sandwich can introduce guests to new flavors. When presented as a trio, they can also tell a cohesive, compelling culinary story. In this aptly named cookbook, Matty Matheson tells interesting stories, and shares more than 120 recipes.

From Amazon: “Packed with character, personal stories, 126 scrumptious recipes, and vivid photographs of a day-in-the-life with Matty and his family, Soups, Salads, Sandwiches will have you fearlessly whipping up your own combinations in the kitchen.”

Order your copy today on Amazon, or wherever you get books.

Unsliced: How to Stay Whole in the Pizzeria Industry

Mike Bausch, the author of Unsliced, was one of the first guests on the Bar Hacks podcast. If you’d like to give his episode a listen, it’s number number 18 (Spotify link | Apple Podcasts link). In his book, Bausch lays everything out for pizzeria operators, from leadership and marketing to adjusting your mindset.

These two sentences from the description of Unsliced say it all, and they resonate with me and my partners at KRG Hospitality: “It’s hard not to get discouraged in this business. But with the right perspective, smart systems, and hard work, your restaurant can thrive.”

From Amazon: “If you own a pizzeria, you know something most people don’t: the pizza business is more cutthroat, stressful, and multifaceted than Wall Street. Every day is a constant struggle to manage overhead, attract loyal customers, stand out from the pack, and keep your employees motivated.

“Running a pizzeria is hard. But it doesn’t have to be as hard as you think.”

Pick this book up here.

The Bartender’s Pantry: A Beverage Handbook for the Universal Bar

Published earlier this year, The Bartender’s Pantry by Jim Meehan and Bart Sasso offers a unique departure from the standard cocktail recipe book. As you glean from the word “pantry” in the title of this book, Meehan and Sasso encourage bartenders to take a culinary approach to crafting drinks. However, The Bartender’s Pantry is also aimed at cooks. Really, this is a great book that should help bring the front and back of houses together. There are more than 100 recipes, and this book is available in a flexibound version, which makes it infinitely cool.

From Amazon: “Each chapter features artfully illustrated recipes incorporating the featured ingredients that bring the reader into the kitchens of some of the world’s most revered bartenders, baristas, importers, and chefs. Their innovative takes on traditional recipes including horchata, matcha, Turkish coffee, sorrel, kvass, and ice cream are followed by full-page photos of over 50 cocktails that incorporate them including modern classics like the Gin Basil Smash, Earl Grey MarTEAni and Penicillin.”

Grab the flexibound version from Amazon.

Beyond the Hammer: A Fresh Approach to Leadership, Culture, and Building High Performance Teams

Author Brian Gottlieb identifies three challenges that just about every business faces: leading staff to take ownership of the work they do; friction between departments or separate teams; and producing inconsistent results. He also presents a strategy in Beyond the Hammer to overcome these challenges, in addition to high employee turnover, and burnout.

From Amazon: “These common issues create high turnover and force managers into crisis mode where they’re consumed putting out daily fires. Over time, the very nature of the business changes and a new culture emerges; one shaped by the lowest level of acceptable behavior.”

Hardcover available on Amazon.

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

If you’ve listened to episode 100 of the KRG Hospitality-produced Bar Hacks podcast (Spotify link | Apple Podcasts link), you’ve heard Tako Chang talk about discovering the Double Chicken Please team’s hidden talents. Moreover, you’ve heard how impressed she is with the team’s skills, and encouraging each member to develop them further. That’s an example of great leadership.

This book, written by organizational psychologist Adam Grant, addresses finding and exploring your own potential; doing the same for others; and why we should focus more on learning than working ourselves to the bone to achieve success.

From Amazon: “Hidden Potential offers a new framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations. Adam Grant weaves together groundbreaking evidence, surprising insights, and vivid storytelling that takes us from the classroom to the boardroom, the playground to the Olympics, and underground to outer space. He shows that progress depends less on how hard you work than how well you learn. Growth is not about the genius you possess—it’s about the character you develop. Grant explores how to build the character skills and motivational structures to realize our own potential, and how to design systems that create opportunities for those who have been underrated and overlooked.”

The hardcover costs less than the paperback right now on Amazon.

Image: Image: Mikołaj on Unsplash

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October 1, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Program for Unique Holidays: October 2024

Program for Unique Holidays: October 2024

by David Klemt

Do you want to stand out from from other restaurants and bars in your area? Change how you think about your October holiday programming.

Several holidays are set against every date on the calendar, and this month is no exception. These holidays range from mainstream to esoteric.

To provide a handful of examples, October boasts celebrations of the cheeseburger, the double cheeseburger, cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza, beer, and guacamole. Those are fantastic F&B holidays sure to appeal to your guests. However, you can still celebrate some “out there” holidays to get people’s attention and draw them to your business.

For our September 2024 holidays list, click here.

October 1: The New National Taco Day

That’s right; National Taco Day has changed! You can read my article addressing this change here for more details, but what you need to know is that from today onward, National Taco Day will always fall on a Taco Tuesday.

October 2: Walk Your Dog Week

If your venue is dog friendly, and you operate in at least a decently walkable city or town, this is a great week to invite your guests to pop in for a dog treat, a bite, and a drink with their best friends.

October 4: Plaidurday

This day is dedicated to plaid. Plaid shirts, plaid pants, plaid shoes, plaid hats, plaid coats, plaid scarves, kilts featuring a tartan… If it’s plaid, encourage your guests to come by your place while they’re wearing it.

October 11: It’s My Party Day

Okay, this is an odd one. Really, it’s all about nostalgia. Technically, it’s about people revisiting their sweet sixteen parties, which is incredibly specific. Personally, I’d tap into your understanding of your guests and come up with a nostalgic theme that will appeal to them. After all, October is all about dressing up and themed parties.

October 12: National Motorcycle Ride Day

If your venue is motorcycle friendly, encourage your guests who ride to organize a ride, with a stop at your business to relax and refuel.

October 15: National Chicken Cacciatore Day

Recently, we addressed the importance of putting your spin on classic comfort foods. Chicken cacciatore, a recipe that’s about 600 years old, certainly falls into this category; it’s a classic comfort food, and your kitchen team can certainly put their own take on it.

October 21: Apple Day

We also addressed applejack, America’s first native spirit, just yesterday. Sure, you can do caramel apples or apple pie to celebrate this day, but I think you should bring your bar team into the mix, and create an LTO menu featuring applejack cocktails.

October 24: National Food Day

It sounds like this holiday is incredibly open ended, doesn’t it? A blank slate for any cuisine or food item you want to program a holiday promotion to leverage.

However, it’s specifically focused on featuring natural foods. For tips on how to build a natural, farm-to-table menu, check out KRG Hospitality chef consultant Nathen Dubé’s article here.

October 25: Chucky, the Notorious Killer Doll Day

I’ve included this because, wow, is it specific. It’s also a great day to play the Child’s Play movies and Chucky television show, within the confines of the proper licenses, of course.

October 30: National Candy Corn Day

Candy corn sucks, and if you agree (which means you’re correct), you’ll use this day to campaign against this food crime against nature.

Image: Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels

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An AI-generated image of three pint glasses filled with beer sitting on Canadian flag coasters on a picnic table, with a mountain, lake, and Canadian flag in the background

September 23, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Raise Your Glass to Canadian Beer Day

Raise Your Glass to Canadian Beer Day

by David Klemt

This is an AI-generated image, but I still want to visit and drink those beers.

Operators and their guests will raise their glasses and celebrate Canadian beer on October 9, also known as Canadian Beer Day.

This year represents the sixth-annual Canadian Beer Day. Beer Canada created the holiday, with first event launching in 2019.

Not only does this beer-centric holiday honor one of the world’s most-popular drinks, it’s a day to observe its impact on Canada. According to the Beer Canada website, which is an excellent resource that I recommend everyone visit, brewers in the country employ 21,000 Canadians directly.

Zoom out and that number jumps to nearly 150,000 Canadians overall. There are farmers, bartenders, retailers, truckers, designers, and many other people whose employment relies on beer production. Further, almost 90 percent of beer purchased in Canada is brewed locally.

Each year, Beer Canada crafts a theme to go along with Canadian Beer Day. This year, that theme celebrates the cultural significance of the nation’s beer culture.

As an American, I think I’m qualified to say that people have seemed more divided over the past decade than in recent memory. At least, that’s what we’re often being told in the US, Canada, and other countries.

But think about how powerful gathering in pubs and bars has been for breaking down barriers. Having a beer with a stranger and finding middle ground can lower temperatures, and go a long way toward healing communities.

We should all strive to get back to that simple, comforting practice.

“Local” Impact

I may date myself a bit here but I remember the first Canadian beer I ever tried. Growing up in the Midwest in America, it was common to have friends who visited or had family and friends in Canada.

One day in the Nineties, some friends of mine and I got into a lighthearted debate about beer. One of our friends, who had just come back from a trip to Canada, scoffed at our light American pilsners and lagers, stating that we were essentially drinking water.

Then, he opened a cooler and pulled out bottles of Moose Drool Brown Ale. Not long after that moment, I’d be introduced to Moosehead and Labatt.

I still think about that first sip of Moose Drool, particularly when a beer debate heats up. I’m just one person but Canadian beer has had an impact on little old American me.

Canadian Beer

Head to Montréal, Québec, and you can visit the Talon Vaults, the archaeological remains of Canada’s first commercial brewery.

This important bit of beer-brewing history dates back to the late 1660s, when La Brasseries du Roy was opened by Jean Talon in Québec City. However, beer brewing in Canada dates back to at least the 1620s.

In 1786, the legendary John Molson established the Molson Brewery, also in Québec City. I think we all know how significant the Molson story is to Canadian beer.

Today, there are more than 1,300 breweries operating and employing people across Canada. Most are located in Ontario, Québec, British Columbia, and Alberta. Although, there at least a single brewery in every province. For example, there’s one brewery in the Northwest Territories, and one in Nunavut.

Per Statista data, the Canadian beer industry generated $18.43 billion (US $13.6 billion) in 2023, with $7.8 billion (US $5.8 billion) coming from restaurants and bars.

Those are big numbers being put up by just 1,300 breweries.

Celebrate in Style

Along with having a beer and getting to know someone, a great beer and food pairing can improve your day.

So, I asked Nathen Dubé, our chef consultant at KRG Hospitality, for some of his favorite beer pairings. And, wow, did he deliver.

Check out his recommendations below, and consider using them for a Canadian Beer Day limited-time-offer menu.

Let’s start with his favorite personal pairing.

“One of my favorite beer and food pairings is a robust, malty, Canadian brown ale with a perfectly grilled bison burger topped with aged cheddar, caramelized onions, and a touch of maple bacon,” says Nathen. “The rich malt character of the brown ale complements the hearty, gamey flavor of the bison, while the subtle sweetness from the caramelized onions and bacon plays beautifully with the ale’s caramel notes. The cheddar adds a creamy, sharp contrast, making each bite and sip a delightfully balanced experience.”

Now, let’s jump into Nathen’s LTO suggestions. This Canadian Beer Day, he recommends crafting unique, gourmet poutines.

Traditional Poutine

Beer Pairing: Local Pale Ale

Description: Hand-cut fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and a rich beef gravy. The pale ale’s mild bitterness cuts through the gravy’s richness, while its effervescence balances the cheese’s creaminess.

Butter Chicken Poutine

Beer Pairing: Indian Pale Ale (IPA)

Description: Fries smothered in creamy, spiced butter chicken sauce, topped with fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt. The hoppy and citrusy notes of the IPA enhance the spices in the butter chicken, creating a vibrant and aromatic pairing.

Pulled Pork BBQ Poutine

Beer Pairing: Smoked Porter

Description: Crispy fries loaded with slow-cooked pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese. The smoked porter’s roasted malt flavors complement the smoky pork, while its subtle sweetness balances the BBQ sauce’s tang. This poutine can be—or rather should be—prepared and served individually. As a general, Nathen always thinks the darker the beer, the stronger the cheese. On the other flavor profile side, the lighter/fruitier beer, the lighter the cheese.

Be sure to add these tempting poutines to your LTO menu, and visit the Canadian Beer Day website to download their digital and social media assets. Cheers!

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A closeup photograph of four street tacos with meat, onions, and cilantro in soft corn tortillas

September 20, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

National Taco Day Makes its Move

National Taco Day Makes its Move

by David Klemt

I call this a good start.

I don’t know how to break this to you, so I’m just going to say it: National Taco Day, one of the world’s most important holidays, has made a big move.

For the past 15 years, National Taco Day has been celebrated on October 4. That means that since its inception, the annual holiday that celebrates the taco has only fallen on a Taco Tuesday three times.

In fact, it didn’t even fall on Taco Tuesday until its third year, in 2011. National Taco Day didn’t repeat the feat again until 2016, and then 2022. Had the date remained the same in perpetuity, we wouldn’t get another National Taco Day on a Taco Tuesday until 2028 at the earliest.

Starting this year—in a week and a half, in fact—National Taco Day will fall on the first Tuesday in October.

I’m going to share my thought process after I first found out about this news.

How did I learn about this massive change? Via a post by Smirnoff. You see, National Taco Day and National Vodka Day have been linked since they each first launched in 2009.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Smirnoff (@smirnoff)

It seems that Smirnoff is none too pleased with this news, though they’ll reunite with National Taco Day in 2028.

My first reaction was “I can’t believe this is news,” for a few seconds. That evolved into “I can’t believe this took so long to resolve” rather quickly.

And then I told the KRG Hospitality team about this news.

Finally!

I’ve always thought “Why isn’t National Taco Day always on a Taco Tuesday?” when the holiday has come around.

Finally, someone has acted to rectify this oversight; Taco Bell appealed to National Day Calendar to change the date. It may seem to trivial for a fast-food giant (or anyone else, for that matter) to petition to have a holiday’s date changed when it isn’t a legal holiday.

However, according to a Taco Bell press release addressing this National Taco Day news, it’s rare that National Day Calendar makes such a change. The release goes on to quote Marlo Anderson, the founder of National Day Calendar, which launched in 2013.

“For years, we’ve celebrated National Taco Day on October 4th, but it’s always felt like there was a bigger opportunity to align it with something even more special—Taco Tuesday,” said Anderson.

Interestingly, another fast food chain is credited with creating National Taco Day: Del Taco. Keeping the trivia going, “National” reportedly doesn’t actually pertain to any one country; it’s just what the holiday is called.

While this news is certainly another win for Taco Bell and their, well, obsession with Taco Tuesday (understandable, of course), it’s a win for everyone who loves tacos.

Operators need to pull out all the stops for October 1, the first of the newly revised National Taco Day celebrations. Task your kitchen team with creating LTO tacos, crafting a super-premium version of your signature taco if you have one, and ensuring there are vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options to appeal to every single taco-loving guest.

Let’s go all out!

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September 11, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Balancing Menu Creativity with Preferences

Menu Design: Balancing Creativity and Guest Preferences

by Nathen Dubé

Note: AI-generated image.

A menu is not just a list of dishes; it’s a strategic tool that influences guest choices, enhances the dining experience, and maximizes sales.

Therefore, a well-designed menu is a crucial component of a restaurant’s success.

Come along with me and we’ll explore the principles of effective menu design, balancing creativity with guest preferences, and the role of menu psychology in driving decisions.

Key Principles of Effective Menu Design

Layout and Structure

The foundation of a great menu lies in its layout and structure. Organizing menu items logically—grouping appetizers, mains, desserts, and beverages into distinct sections—guides guests through their dining journey.

This structure helps in creating a seamless experience where guests can find what they are looking for easily. Subsections like “vegetarian,” “seafood,” or “grilled” can further refine the selection process.

Logical organization not only aids in navigation but also enhances the overall dining experience by reducing decision fatigue.

Item Placement

Item placement on the menu can have a significant impact on what guests decide to order.

The “Golden Triangle” concept suggests that guests’ eyes typically first gravitate to the center, then the top right, and finally, the top left of the menu. Placing high-margin items in these areas can drive sales.

Additionally, highlighting signature dishes and specials in these prime spots can make them more appealing. Strategic placement is essential for maximizing the visibility of certain items, encouraging guests to order the dishes that are most profitable or unique.

Readability

A menu should be easy to read and visually appealing. Choosing appropriate fonts and sizes ensures that the text is legible in various lighting conditions.

A key factor to bear in mind is maintaining clear spacing between items to prevent the menu from looking cluttered and overwhelming.

Ensuring the clarity and ease of reading is vital; if a guest struggles to read the menu, it detracts from their dining experience. Effective readability involves the thoughtful selection of fonts, sizes, and spacing to create a harmonious and inviting look.

Balancing Creativity and Guest Preferences

Creative Culinary Expression

A menu is an opportunity to showcase the chef’s creativity and culinary expertise. Innovative dishes that use unique ingredients or cooking techniques can set a restaurant apart from its competitors.

Creativity is crucial for developing a distinctive culinary identity, and offering guests an exciting and memorable dining experience.

However, it’s important to balance creativity with dishes that guests are familiar with and enjoy. Balancing innovation with tradition ensures that while the menu offers new and novel experiences, it also provides comfort and familiarity.

Popular Guest Preferences

To appeal to a broad audience, a menu should include a mix of creative dishes and popular favorites. Including familiar dishes alongside innovative options can cater to a wider audience, making everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Additionally, considering dietary restrictions and preferences is crucial. Offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options ensures that all guests can find something they love. Addressing dietary needs and preferences not only broadens the guest base but also demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.

Market Trends

Staying updated with current culinary trends helps keep the menu fresh and exciting.

For instance, trends such as plant-based diets, sustainability, and ethnic fusion can attract trend-conscious diners. Incorporating these trends into the menu shows that the restaurant is contemporary and aware of its guests’ evolving tastes.

Aligning the menu with market trends can create a buzz and draw attention to the restaurant, enhancing its reputation as a forward-thinking and dynamic establishment.

The Role of Menu Psychology

Influencing Guest Choices

Menu psychology involves using strategic design and phrasing to influence what guests order.

Some effective techniques include strategic pricing methods like decoy pricing. This approach involves placing a high-priced item next to a mid-priced item to make the latter seem more reasonable. Another tactic is charm pricing, an approach that uses prices that end in “.99” to make them appear more attractive.

These subtle cues can guide guest decisions and encourage them to choose certain dishes. Understanding menu psychology allows restaurants to steer guests subtly towards higher-margin items without being overtly pushy.

Maximizing Sales

Highlighting profitable dishes with visual cues, such as boxes, borders, or bold text, can draw attention to these items. Descriptive language that evokes the senses can make dishes sound more appealing, and entice guests to try them.

For example, describing a dish as “succulent, slow-roasted pork with a caramelized apple glaze” creates a vivid image, and stimulates appetite.

Effective use of menu psychology can boost sales significantly, and enhance the dining experience by making the menu more engaging and enticing.

Enhancing Appeal with Descriptive Language and Visuals

Descriptive Language

Using evocative and sensory words to describe dishes can enhance their appeal. Highlighting unique ingredients, preparation methods, and the origin of the dish creates a story that resonates with guests.

Descriptive language adds depth and dimension to the menu, transforming it from a simple list of dishes into a narrative that engages the guest’s imagination. Phrases like “handcrafted,” “locally sourced,” and “artisanal” add a touch of sophistication and quality, making dishes sound more attractive and special.

Visuals

Including high-quality images or illustrations of key dishes can boost their appeal significantly. Visuals help guests imagine the dish, and can trigger an emotional response

A well-designed menu with complementary color schemes and design elements reinforces the restaurant’s theme, and creates a cohesive brand identity.

The use of appealing visuals can stimulate appetite, and make the decision-making process more enjoyable for guests, enhancing their overall dining experience.

Examples of Innovative Menus

Case Studies of Successful Menus

Analyzing menus from renowned restaurants provides valuable insights into successful design choices.

For instance, The French Laundry in California uses a minimalist menu design that emphasizes simplicity and elegance, allowing the focus to remain on the high-quality ingredients and sophisticated dishes.

Similarly, Nobu’s menu balances innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes with classic favorites, catering to a diverse clientele.

These examples illustrate how thoughtful menu design can enhance the dining experience, and create a distinctive brand identity.

Insights from Industry Experts

Menu design professionals and restaurateurs offer valuable best practices. Experts suggest evaluating and adapting the menu continuously to meet changing guest preferences and market trends.

Updating the menu regularly not only keeps it interesting for repeat guests but also allows for the introduction of seasonal ingredients and new culinary innovations.

Industry insights highlight the importance of flexibility and responsiveness in menu design, ensuring that the restaurant remains relevant and competitive.

Conclusion

A thoughtfully designed menu is a powerful tool in the restaurant industry. It balances creativity with guest preferences, uses psychology to influence choices, and enhances appeal through descriptive language and visuals.

Investing in effective menu design can enhance the dining experience, drive guest satisfaction, and boost sales. For restaurateurs, it’s an essential aspect of creating a successful and memorable dining establishment.

By understanding and implementing these principles, restaurant owners can craft menus that not only reflect their culinary vision but also resonate with their target audience, ensuring a winning formula for success.

A well-designed menu can transform the dining experience, making it more engaging, enjoyable, and, ultimately, profitable for the restaurant.

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September 6, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Is Demand for Delivery Down?

Is Demand for Delivery Down?

by David Klemt

I have done this. Cargo straps required.

Not too long ago, it seemed as delivery was going to overtake people’s desire to enjoy a restaurant in person, but that trend may be on a downward swing.

At first, this trend made perfect sense, for obvious reasons. For a while, the best way for consumers to enjoy their favorite restaurants and show support was to order delivery.

Rideshare companies jumped on delivery, as did several platforms. When guests were able to visit restaurants in person freely, delivery had become a habit for many of them. In fact, ordering delivery had become the de facto method of engaging with restaurants for a not-insignificant percentage of people.

However, operators and their teams weren’t shy about exposing their delivery “partners.” I think it’s fair to describe the fees operators were being charged by some of these partners as outrageous.

When the public found out about these fees, they didn’t sit well. Takeout, carryout, takeaway, order for pickup… Whatever your preferred nomenclature, people began seeing it as superior to delivery. This shift in consumer behavior was driven by a desire to support their favorite restaurants.

Of course, there are other factors that affected people’s move away from delivery. I’m confident in saying that most of us who have ordered delivery at some point in the last couple of years has experienced at least one of several downsides.

However, has delivery really fallen out of favor? Have takeout or drive-up pickup actually been passing up delivery?

Datassential’s 2024 Midyear Trends Report has some insights that can answer those questions. You can (and should) check it out for yourself here.

The State of Takeout and Delivery

To obtain a snapshot of the state of the performance of delivery and takeout, Datassential conducted a survey in May of this year. The F&B intelligence platform surveyed 400 US operators and more than 1,500 US consumers.

According to Datassential, nearly half of restaurant operators reported increases in guests dining in person at their restaurants.

Perhaps more telling, however, is that Datassential’s survey reveals that half of restaurants aren’t even offering delivery. I don’t know the breakdown of operators who once offered delivery and stopped doing so versus operators who never offered delivery.

What I do know is that there are, as I alluded to up top, many reasons for people to eschew delivery. Chief among these are cost, and the condition of the order when it arrives to the guest.

On the operator side, cost is once again a consideration, as are negative reviews and complaints. More than one study has shown that operators often get the blame when a third party botches an element of the delivery. These complaints can include food being delivered lukewarm or cold, parts of the delivery missing, or the wrong items being delivered to someone.

But, again, is demand for delivery slipping?

Per Datassential’s report, takeout and catering are outpacing the growth of delivery for US operators. Almost 40 percent of operators who participated in Datassential’s survey reported an increase in frequency for takeout and catering orders. In comparison, just 20 percent of respondents ordered an increase in delivery order.

Just eight percent of operators indicated a decrease in takeout and delivery. In fact, the greatest decrease impacts catering (14 percent), according to Datassential’s report.

Takeaway

Delivery, simply put, doesn’t work for every operator or every concept. Moreover, it looks like consumer desire for takeout is on a greater upswing in contrast to delivery.

For concepts that succeed with delivery, it’s imperative that operators control the process rather than cede to third parties, in my opinion.

The best way forward will vary from business to business. Operators and their teams need to be ruthless the quality, consistency, accuracy, and value of all orders, whether placed in person, for takeout, or for delivery. Further, when it comes to takeout and delivery, the ordering process must be convenient.

What’s clear is that every operator needs to dive into their data, determine how guests prefer to order from their restaurant, and pursue those preferences to enhance the guest experience.

Image: Microsoft Designer

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September 3, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Program for Unique Holidays: Sept. 2024

Program for Unique Holidays: September 2024

by David Klemt

Do you want to stand out from from other restaurants and bars in your area? Change how you think about your September holiday programming.

Several holidays are set against every date on the calendar, and this month is no exception. These holidays range from mainstream to esoteric.

To provide a handful of examples, September boasts celebrations of the cheeseburger, the double cheeseburger, cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza, beer, and guacamole. Those are fantastic F&B holidays sure to appeal to your guests. However, you can still celebrate some “out there” holidays to get people’s attention and draw them to your business.

For our August 2024 holidays list, click here.

September 4: Eat an Extra Dessert Day

You know what’s better than selling one dessert? Selling multiple desserts.

One approach that may perform well for you, depending on your concept and menu, is to create new, smaller versions of desserts so people won’t be too stuffed to enjoy more than one treat.

September 8: National Ampersand Day

Ah, the ampersand. This is perhaps my favorite logogram, since it means “and,” and it looks cool when stylized. Since this symbol represents “and,” this is the perfect day to feature a menu of food-and-drink pairings or shot-and-beer pairings. I recommend a tiered LTO menu, with a few options for each level: Beam & Bud Light, Woodford & Guinness, etc.

September 9: National Wiener Schnitzel Day

This dish comes to us from Vienna. It’s so good and comforting that it’s one of Austria’s national dishes. Germans, of course, love wiener schnitzel as well.

To leverage this holiday, consider making a traditional version made with veal cutlets, served with French fries, mashed potatoes, or Hasselback potatoes. If you want to build an LTO menu, though, look to other versions of this dish. For example, there’s a non-breaded wiener schnitzel variant served with a cream sauce called rahmschnitzel. One can also argue that Japanese tonkatsu (pork, not veal), Danish skinkeschnitzel (made with pork rather than veal), and American chicken-fried steak will work for this holiday.

September 14: National Eat a Hoagie Day

The humble hoagie is an institution. Depending on where you operate, these iconic sandwiches may be known as heroes, grinders, submarines, subs, po’boys, bombers, or torpedoes. However, if your guests know them as hoagies, you better come correct. Hell hath no fury like a Philadelphian presented with a hoagie with mustard on it, for example.

September 15: National Crème de Menthe Day

Crème de menthe enjoys a deep history, which you can read about here. The main takeaways are the two most-famous cocktails that feature this legend among liqueurs: the Grasshopper, and the Stinger. Both classics are great for an LTO menu celebrating the final days of summer.

September 17: National Table Shuffleboard Day

Does your bar, restaurant, or eatertainment concept feature table shuffleboard? If it does, you’re poised to leverage this holiday.

One of the most effective approaches is to organize a tournament. Of course, you can also feature other contests, like Closest to the Edge.

September 21: Escapology Day

Okay, this one is a bit specific. If your restaurant or bar is located in the same market as an escape room (or several, as is the case for a city like Las Vegas), consider partnering with them if it makes sense to do so. You and your team can recommend your guests check out a particular escape room. Conversely, the escape room can recommend your restaurant or bar for post-escape food and drinks. To solidify the partnership, both businesses can offer a discount or other benefit to each other’s guests.

Really, we want you to think about local businesses that can serve as strong partners.

September 23: National Great American Pot Pie Day

Two weeks ago we tackled comfort foods. In particular, transforming traditional comfort foods into soups. This holiday is the perfect time to make an LTO soup (or, if it performs well, a permanent menu item, or recurring LTO from fall through winter) out of one of the best-known comfort classics, the pot pie.

September 24: Innergize Day

Summer is coming to a close. Traditionally, this means vacation and relaxation time is over as people return to offices, and children return to school.

Innergize Day is about relaxing and disconnecting. It’s quite likely your concept can facilitate relaxation, escaping devices, and slowing down.

September 25: Better Breakfast Day

Is your concept open for the early morning daypart? Do you serve brunch? More importantly, is your concept committed to serving healthy food and drinks, or are you interested in updating your menu to feature healthier items?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, this could be the day for you. Use social media and other marketing channels to promote your healthy menu. Create items like healthy breakfast bowls and smoothies if it’s time for an update, and promote your new, healthier menu.

Image: Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels

A chef in a commercial kitchen, using a set of combi-ovens.

August 28, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

The Comprehensive Guide to Combi Ovens

The Comprehensive Guide to Combi Ovens: Efficiency, Versatility, and Performance

by Nathen Dubé

That’s some impressive AI-generated commercial kitchen equipment.

The versatility of combi ovens stems from their ability to combine multiple cooking methods into a single unit, making them a must-have for any professional kitchen.

These appliances have revolutionized the way we cook in the dynamic realm of modern kitchens.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the efficiency, versatility, and performance of combi ovens, helping you understand why they’re essential for contemporary culinary success.

What is a Combi Oven?

Definition and Basic Functionality

A combi oven is a kitchen powerhouse that combines convection, steam, and a mix of both cooking methods.

This multipurpose bit of kitchen kit can bake, roast, grill, steam, and even sous-vide. With such incredible functionality and versatility, combi ovens are indispensable for any culinary operation.

History and Evolution

Introduced in the 1970s, the combi oven has come a long way from its humble beginnings.

Early models were basic convection ovens with a simple steam function. Today, they boast advanced features like programmable settings, precise temperature and humidity controls, and smart technology integration.

The evolution of combi ovens has been marked by several key innovations. Initially, combi ovens were large, cumbersome units that required significant space and manual operation. However, as technology advanced, these ovens became more compact, efficient, and user-friendly. The introduction of digital controls, touchscreens, and programmable settings has made it easier for chefs to achieve precise cooking results with minimal effort.

Key Components and Features

Modern combi ovens are equipped with several advanced components.

Fan and Motor: Ensures even heat distribution. The fan circulates hot air around the food, allowing for uniform cooking and browning.
Steam Generator: Produces steam for moist cooking. This feature is essential for steaming vegetables, fish, and other delicate items without drying them out.
Touchscreen Interface: For easy programming and monitoring. Chefs can set specific cooking times, temperatures, and humidity levels with just a few taps on the screen.
Temperature and Humidity Sensors: For precise control over cooking conditions. These sensors ensure that the oven maintains the desired environment, leading to consistent results.

The Versatility of Combi Ovens

Range of Cooking Methods

Combi ovens excel in offering diverse cooking methods, including those below.

Steaming: Perfect for vegetables, seafood, and delicate items. Steaming helps retain nutrients and natural flavors while ensuring even cooking.
Baking: Ideal for bread, pastries, and desserts. The convection function provides even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly baked goods.
Roasting: Achieves a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist. This method is great for meats, poultry, and root vegetables.
Grilling: Adds a charred flavor to meats and vegetables. The high heat of the grill function sears the outside, creating a delicious crust.
Sous-Vide: Ensures precise temperature control for slow cooking. This method involves cooking food in a vacuum-sealed bag in a water bath, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.

Examples of Dishes

Combi ovens can handle a variety of dishes, demonstrating their versatility.

Roast Chicken: Achieve a golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
Steamed Fish: Cook delicate fish fillets to perfection, preserving their texture and flavor.
Croissants and Baguettes: Bake flaky, golden pastries with consistent results.
Grilled Vegetables: Enhance the natural flavors of vegetables with a slight char.
Sous-Vide Steaks: Cook steaks to the perfect level of doneness with precise temperature control.

Combi Oven Benefits

Combi ovens are versatile enough to benefit various culinary environments.

Restaurants: Handle high-volume orders efficiently. Chefs can prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, reducing wait times, and improving service.
Catering: Provide versatility for diverse menus. Caterers can offer a wide range of dishes without needing multiple appliances.
Hotels: Ensure consistent quality for large-scale food service. Hotel kitchens can maintain high standards across various meal services, from breakfast buffets to fine dining.

Comparison to Traditional Cooking Equipment

Compared to traditional ovens and steamers, combi ovens are more energy-efficient and cost-effective. They reduce the need for multiple appliances by combining cooking methods into one.

This consolidation leads to lower energy consumption, and reduced operational costs.

How Combi Ovens Save Energy

Combi ovens save energy through several mechanisms.

Reduced Cooking Time: Faster cooking with combined methods. The combination of convection and steam accelerates the cooking process, reducing overall energy use.
Efficient Heat Distribution: Even cooking reduces energy waste. The fan and motor ensure that heat is distributed evenly, eliminating hot spots and undercooked areas.
Programmable Settings: Optimize energy use for different recipes. Chefs can program the oven to use the most efficient cooking method for each dish, minimizing energy consumption.

Impact on Food Waste Reduction and Sustainability

Combi ovens contribute to sustainability in several ways.

Reducing Food Waste: Precise cooking reduces overcooking and waste. The ability to control temperature and humidity accurately ensures that food is cooked to perfection, minimizing leftovers and discarded items.
Lower Utility Costs: Efficient energy use lowers bills. The reduced cooking time and optimized energy consumption lead to significant savings on utility bills.
Sustainable Cooking Practices: Support eco-friendly kitchen operations. By using less energy and reducing food waste, combi ovens help kitchens operate more sustainably.

Maintenance Tips and Best Practices

Daily and Weekly Maintenance Routines

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Clean the interior and exterior surfaces, empty the drip tray, and check the door seals. Wipe down the touchscreen interface to keep it responsive.
Weekly: Descale the steam generator, clean the fan and motor, and inspect all components for wear and tear. This routine helps prevent buildup, and ensures the oven operates efficiently.

Cleaning and Descaling Tips

Proper cleaning and descaling are crucial for maintaining the combi oven’s performance.

Cleaning: Use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the oven’s surfaces or components.
Descaling: Follow manufacturer instructions for descaling solutions and procedures. Regular descaling prevents mineral buildup that can affect the steam generator’s performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Address common issues promptly to avoid downtime.

Inconsistent Cooking: Check temperature settings and fan operation. Ensure the oven is preheated properly, and that the fan is distributing heat evenly.
Steam Issues: Inspect the steam generator and descaling schedule. Regular descaling can prevent steam production problems.
Error Codes: Refer to the user manual for specific error resolutions. Most combi ovens have built-in diagnostics to help identify and resolve issues.

Importance of Regular Professional Servicing

Professional servicing ensures longevity and performance. Schedule regular check-ups with certified technicians to keep your combi oven in top condition.

These experts can identify potential issues before they become major problems, and ensure that the oven operates at peak efficiency.

Choosing the Right Combi Oven

When selecting a combi oven, consider several key factors:

Size and Capacity: Match the oven size to your kitchen’s needs. Smaller kitchens may benefit from compact models, while larger operations may require higher-capacity units.
Features: Look for advanced controls, programmability, and energy efficiency. Consider features like multi-stage cooking, recipe storage, and automatic cleaning functions.
Brand Reputation: Choose reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Research customer reviews and industry recommendations to find a trusted manufacturer.
Budget: Balance cost with the oven’s features and benefits. While high-end models may offer more advanced features, there are also budget-friendly options that provide excellent performance.

Case Studies and Expert Recommendations

Explore success stories from top chefs and kitchens to see how combi ovens have transformed their culinary operations. For example, a renowned restaurant may use a combi oven to streamline its kitchen workflow, resulting in faster service and improved dish consistency.

Insights from industry experts can guide your decision, offering tips on selecting and using the best combi oven for your needs. Interviews with chefs who have integrated combi ovens into their kitchens successfully can provide valuable perspectives on maximizing the benefits of these appliances.

Integration and Practical Tips

Smooth integration involves several steps.

Space Planning: Ensure adequate space for the oven and ventilation. Measure the available area, and consider the oven’s dimensions. Include any clearance needed for door opening, and maintenance access.
Electrical and Plumbing: Confirm compatibility with your kitchen’s infrastructure. Check that the oven’s electrical requirements match your kitchen’s power supply, and that you have the necessary plumbing connections for the steam generator.
Workflow Optimization: Position the oven for easy access and efficiency. Consider the flow of your kitchen operations, and place the oven where it can be reached by chefs and kitchen staff easily.

Training Staff for Optimal Use

Proper training is essential for maximizing the benefits of a combi oven.

Hands-On Training: Provide practical demonstrations for staff. Show them how to operate the oven, program settings, and use different cooking methods.
User Manuals: Ensure staff are familiar with the oven’s features and controls. Distribute user manuals, and provide training sessions to cover all aspects of the oven’s operation.
Ongoing Education: Update training regularly as new features or recipes are introduced. Continuous education helps staff stay proficient with the oven, and explore new cooking techniques.

Maximizing the Benefits in Daily Operations

To fully leverage a combi oven, consider the following tips.

Menu Planning: Design menus that utilize the oven’s versatility. Incorporate dishes that can be prepared using different cooking methods to showcase the oven’s capabilities.
Batch Cooking: Optimize batch sizes for efficiency. Use the oven’s capacity to cook multiple dishes at once, reducing cooking time and energy use.
Monitoring and Adjustments: Monitor cooking processes continually, and adjust for consistency. Check the oven’s performance regularly, and fine-tune settings to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Combi ovens are a cornerstone of modern kitchen efficiency, offering unparalleled versatility and performance. By incorporating a combi oven into your kitchen, you can enhance creativity, improve operational efficiency, and achieve consistent, high-quality results. Explore your options and consult with experts to find the perfect combi oven for your culinary needs.

The benefits of combi ovens extend beyond just cooking versatility. Their energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and impact on food waste reduction make them an excellent investment for any kitchen.

With proper maintenance and staff training, a combi oven can transform your culinary operations, delivering delicious results every time. Whether you’re a restaurant, catering service, or hotel, a combi oven can elevate your kitchen’s capabilities and help you meet the demands of modern dining.

Image: Microsoft Designer

Elote en vaso, or vaso de elote, also known as street corn in a cup, on a bar

August 22, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Soup Season: Transforming Comfort Classics

Soup Season: Transforming Comfort Classics

by David Klemt

Elote en vaso or vaso de elote, also known as “street corn in a cup.”

The latest and greatest from Campbell’s Foodservice is all about operators making the most of cooler weather by maximizing soup season.

If you read KRG Hospitality articles regularly, you’re likely aware that we like the helpful information Campbell’s makes available. For example, I’ve written articles that share their tips for leveraging nostalgia, crushing it with LTOs, and 2024 culinary trends.

Their newest tips aim to help operators succeed with soup. Further, much of Campbell’s Foodservice’s tips are in direct response to Datassential and Technomic data. In fact, Campbell’s references Technomic’s Soup & Salad Consumer Trend Report directly.

To be sure, the first bit of advice that Campbell’s shares is the most obvious: Leverage seasonal flavors. In this case, we’re talking fall and winter flavors.

You may already see stores where you live and operate unleashing Halloween decorations. I know I have; it may be 105 degrees in Las Vegas as I write this, but people are getting into an autumnal mood.

Of course, when you take advantage of seasonality for LTOs or menu updates, it’s important to let your guests know.

“Calling out seasonal items on your menu demonstrates the operator is being relevant and using ingredients that are in season,” says Campbell’s Foodservice Executive Chef Gerald Drummond. “From a consumer standpoint, that’s something that they really look towards.”

We agree wholeheartedly. Going deeper, we recommend working with local suppliers to procure seasonal ingredients, and calling that out as well.

Another tip comes from Datassential and Technomic insights. Three in ten younger consumers would like to see soups that feature plant-based proteins. And around half want at least one vegetarian-friendly soup on a menu.

The Standout Tip

When you’re through reading this article, I encourage you to scroll back to the top, click the “soup season” link, and read this Campbell’s Foodservice report for yourself.

That way, you’ll see all of their latest tips for getting the most out of seasonal soups.

However, I’m going to share the tip that stood out the most to me: transforming comfort food dishes into soups. Hence, the image at the top of this article: vaso de elote, or elote en vaso. That dish translates to “street corn in a cup” from Spanish.

Now, elote or street corn is undeniably a comforting street food. If I see it on a menu, I’m going to order it. Were I to see street corn in a cup, particularly if it came with the presentation at the top of this article, I’m going to order it.

So, if a culinary team were to transform street corn in a cup into street corn in a cup of soup, I’m all in.

Think about your concept, the approach to cuisine, and the community you serve. Then, think about the comfort dishes that work well with your concept and resonate with your guests.

In their report, Campbell’s Foodservice recommends beer cheese soup, of which I’m a fan. They also suggest lasagna soup (I’d try it), and chicken pot pie soup (again, I’m down).

Real-Word, Professional Advice

I asked our chef consultant Nathen Dubé for a couple of quick tips for transforming a comforting food dish into a soup. (By the way, you can book a call with him to discuss your menu or kitchen here.)

“I would look at the overall profile of the dish, and then decide if you’re going to combine everything into a puree or a broth,” says Nathen.

Then, the kitchen team needs to decide “which ingredients would be incorporated, and which could be left whole afterwards for texture, and stronger stand-out flavours.” As he explained to me, some ingredients definitely translate better to slow cooking versus finishing towards the end of the process.

With that advice given, take a look at your menu. Do you have some comfort foods that would be intriguing to guests in soup form? What about some of your signature dishes?

Once you’ve determined which dishes to transform into seasonal, LTO soups, engage your kitchen team. They’ll likely be excited to do something new, and show off their culinary talent.

Some people may harbor the misconception that soup isn’t exciting. I think creative operators and culinary teams can disabuse skeptical guests of this notion. Cheers!

Image: Jarritos Mexican Soda on Unsplash