Foodservice news | KRG Hospitality

Barbecue chicken wings, chili peppers, and chili flakes

August 15, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Top-performing Menu Items in the US

Top-performing Menu Items in the US (So Far)

by David Klemt

Thanks to a recent mid-year report from F&B intelligence platform Datassential, we now know the top-performing menu items in the US.

For the low, low price of filling out a handful of fields, you can download a copy of Datassential’s “Foodbytes: 2023 Midyear Trend Report” for yourself.

There’s plenty of useful data packed into this short report. You may find some of the top food items a bit surprising.

But First…

Datassential does more than just list the top mid-year menu performers in their latest report. There are also a couple of interesting datapoints for operators to consider.

The first piece of information is an alarming statistic: 54 percent of consumers are of the belief that “tipping culture has gotten out of control.”

As we’ve reported earlier, it’s likely that a major driver of “tip fatigue” comes from retail. The expectation for consumers to tip at a restaurant, bar or nightclub is ingrained deeply in American culture.

However, consumers throughout America are being prompted to tip after just about every transaction they’re attempting to complete. In fact, it’s not just retail that has been encouraging (in some cases, guilting) people to tip. Some contractors are also adding tip lines when handing over tablets to clients so they can pay their invoices.

One result is that servers and bartenders are reporting lower tips; guests are so over tipping that they’re pushing back against the practice in venues where they’d traditionally have no problem doing so.

Of course, tip fatigue isn’t the only reason consumers are pushing back against tipping. Many people feel that operators should increase what they pay staff. Indeed, some people feel that operators are asking them to subsidize their employee pay. Whether they’d be happy to pay higher prices remains to be seen.

Fads Aren’t Bad?

Whenever we cover trends or discuss them with clients, we caution against chasing too many (or the “wrong” trends). And fads? It can be even riskier to hop on the bandwagon of something that may never even reach the trend stage of its lifecycle.

However, likely due to the ubiquity of TikTok, consumers expect restaurants to embrace fads. According to Datassential, 67 percent of consumers overall “want to see more fads at restaurants and retail.”

That number jumps to 74 percent when focusing on Millennials and Gen Z.

So, while we still caution operators about jumping on fads (or “micro trends”) and trends, that doesn’t mean be too cautious. If a fad or trend works with your brand and won’t cost much to feature, at least give it consideration.

Not sure you’re great at identifying fads that will work for your business? Ask your staff which fads and trends are hot at the moment.

Speaking of Hot…

Alright, let’s take a look at the F&B items Datassential identifies as popular at the midway point of 2023.

Again, I encourage you to download the report in its entirety. You can do just that by clicking here.

But for those who want instant gratification, check out these menu items:

Super Duper: Let’s kick things off with the hottest chain LTO, the Denny’s Super Slam. Per Datassential, restaurant chains have already featured in excess of 2,000 LTOs in 2023. The F&B intel agency tests them all, and the Super Slam is wearing the LTO crown at the moment.
Chef Chatbot: Datassential tapped ChatGPT to create a burger recipe and had Midjourney create an image for the resulting Caprese Avocado Burger. More than half of consumers surveyed—57 percent—want to try it at a restaurant.
Big Winner: Datassential asked consumers a simple question: Which would you rather eat for the rest of your life, a hamburger or a hot dog? A staggering 87 percent chose hamburgers, meaning just 13 percent of consumers would choose a hot dog over it’s burger buddy.
What a Pickle: Back in March we checked out Slice’s Slice of the Union report, and it predicted pickle pizzas would be a hot trend this year. Well, Datassential has crunched the numbers and says 40 percent of consumers are aware of this pizza style already. Looks like Slice may be proven right by the end of the year.
Speed Demon: Curious about the fastest-growing menu item on the US? Well, wonder no more: Datassential says it’s the barbecue chicken wing. Over the past year, they’ve grown 373 percent on menus across the States. Datassential posits the overall growth of chicken and the embracing of flavor trends like Carolina gold barbecue sauce are contributing factors.

There’s a lot to unpack here, so I’ll leave you to it. Just remember that when it comes to fads and trends, there’s a fine line between what’s hot, what’s not, and jumping on the wrong one. Good luck!

Image: Ahmed Bhutta on Pexels

Person with tattoos pouring coffee from French press

August 14, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Should You Offer Your Guests Brunch?

Should You Offer Your Guests Brunch?

by David Klemt

Is brunch on its way to becoming a lucrative daypart that can grow traffic, increase revenue, boost guest engagement, and promote loyalty?

If a report from Square is anything to go off, yes.

Owing in part to changes in consumer behavior from 2019 to now, brunch appears to be a solid traffic and revenue generator. The number of people working from home is impacting daypart spending, which makes sense. Traditional office workers will often pop into a QSR or cafe for coffee and breakfast on their way in to work. And when lunch rolls around, they tend to head out to restaurants nearby for their break.

Now, the data support the belief that more people are staying home on weekdays and unleashing pent-up demand for socializing and dining out on the weekends. And apparently that demand is rather voracious, because brunch appears to be on the rise.

In 2019, just over eight percent of all dining dollars were spent on Saturdays during traditional brunch hours. That has grown to just over ten percent this year.

In terms of engagement and bringing more brand awareness, the term itself is growing on social media platforms.

Along with revisiting hours of operation, it may be wise for operators to consider offering Saturday or Sunday brunch.

Bristory

Yes, that’s a brunch-style portmanteau of “brunch” and “history.” No, I’m not proud of myself but I’m leaving it in.

The portmanteau “brunch” is believed to have first been coined by a British writer named Guy Beringer in 1895. He included the word in an article he wrote for Hunter’s Weekly. Beringer was making the case for noontime meal that combined breakfast and lunch.

In arguing for what may be the world’s first hybrid meal, Beringer wrote that, “the arguments in favor of Brunch are incontestable. In the first place it renders early rising not only unnecessary but ridiculous. You get up when the world is warm, or at least, when it is not so cold. You are, therefore, able to prolong your Saturday nights…”

The word would appear a year later in a Pennsylvanian publication called the New Oxford. More than 30 years later, brunch was on its way to becoming “a thing” in the US.

Oh, and there are arguments that an American reporter, Frank Ward O’Malley, who should credit for the word “brunch.” Those who believe this is the case say O’Malley created the portmanteau some time between 1906 and 1919. As is the case with many classic cocktails, the origin of brunch is at least somewhat hazy.

By the 1970s, the stigma that once came with brunch—that drinking publicly during the day could harm one’s reputation—began to dissipate.

Brunch by the Numbers

According to Square, brunch is appealing for several reasons.

Let’s take a look at this infamous daypart by the numbers.

9.8 percent: Growth in the number of restaurants in the US offering breakfast and brunch in 2022 alone.
10 percent: Amount of overall spending in restaurants on Saturdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM in 2023.
35 million: Number of #brunch Instagram posts, and the number is growing.
4.5 billion: Number of TikTok views of posts with #brunch.
71 percent: Number of Americans who wish restaurants in the US would serve breakfast items all day.

To me, the most striking statistic is that brunch spending now accounts for ten percent of all restaurant spending.

That spend is logical when we think about who tends to enjoy brunch: people with time and money to spend on a leisurely, all-day meal.

As professor Farha Ternikar, author of Brunch: A History, has said, “Brunch continues to grow anywhere there is disposable income or time.”

So, operators who are considering offering brunch for the time or investing more into brunch have some questions to answer: Who is my target audience? What’s the population density of my market? Who has disposable income and time? Should I offer brunch on Saturday, Sunday, or both days? Does brunch work for my concept? Which venues near me are already offering brunch?

Answer those questions and speak with your staff before jumping feet first into this potentially lucrative daypart.

Image: Helena Lopes on Pexels

Taco Bell Doritos Locos Taco and sauce packet

August 11, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Taco Bell Celebrates Taco Tuesday Win

Taco Bell Celebrates Taco Tuesday Win

by David Klemt

Taco Bell, fresh off their victory in petitioning for the cancellation of the “Taco Tuesday” mark, will open a $5 million taco tab on September 12.

There’s no arguing that over at least the past few years Taco Bell has become the master of LTOs and attention-grabbing, loyalty-strengthening, and headline-generating promotions.

This campaign further solidifies the brand’s status as king of the fast-food campaigns.

“Taco T**sday” to “Taco Tuesday”

It’s highly unlikely that consumers and operators alike are unaware of the company’s “Taco T**sday” ads. The campaign, while playful, put a spotlight on the fact that, until recently, “Taco Tuesday” was a registered trademark.

Rather than spend millions of dollars to fight Taco Bell, Taco John’s, who previously had the rights to the mark, opted to relinquish the rights to the mark. Taco Bell’s argument was that nobody should be permitted to mark a common phrase.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on being the home of Taco Tuesday, but paying millions of dollars to lawyers to defend our mark just doesn’t feel like the right thing to do,” said Jim Creel, Taco John’s CEO. “As we’ve said before, we’re lovers, not fighters, at Taco John’s. So in that spirit, we have decided to begin sharing Taco Tuesday with a pledge to contribute $100 per location in our system to restaurant employees with children who are battling a health crisis, death or natural disaster. And we’re challenging our litigious competitors and other taco-loving brands to join us in supporting the people who serve our favorite food to guests across the nation.”

In fact, Creel fired a shot across the bow at Taco Bell at other rivals. After announcing their pledge to CORE, the CEO challenged other brands that want to use “Taco Tuesday” to do the same. The result would be quite the donation, considering that Taco John’s operates 400 restaurants in 21 states and Taco Bell alone operates more than 7,200 in the US. Look overseas and that number jumps up by about 1,000 locations in 30 countries.

Taco John’s has reportedly made good on their pledge, donating $40,000 to CORE, Children of Restaurant Employees.

What’s in a Mark?

Fast-food chain Taco John’s trademarked the phrase back in 1989. However, back in 1984, a California-based restaurant, Tortilla Flats, registered the trademark. According to some sources, the mark lapsed and Taco John’s snapped it up. That said, Tortilla Flats has sued other California restaurants for using the phrase throughout the years.

Interestingly, Taco John’s only had rights to the mark in 49 states. The exception is New Jersey, where Gregory’s owns the trademark. In fact, anyone who visits their site (as of the publication of this article) will see the phrase “Home of the Original Taco Tuesday!” right at the top.

However, it may surprise some to learn that a celebrity who appeared in Taco Bell’s “Taco T**sday” ads attempted to trademark the phrase in 2019. That celebrity? None other than Lebron James.

Clearly, this seemingly simple two-word phrase is a valuable trademark. It’s also likely that plenty of restaurants across the US have been surreptitiously using the phrase to drive traffic to their venues on Tuesdays for years.

The fact that Lebron James showed interest in the trademark and Taco Bell likely spent millions of dollars in ad revenue to have Taco John’s mark canceled shows the value. Time will tell how many millions of dollars the phrase will be worth to Taco Bell and other restaurant brands across the US.

Taco Tab

Some will see Taco Bell’s campaign as a massive brand bullying a smaller rival. Others will agree that it’s unfair for anyone to own the rights to such a common phrase.

In terms of exposure, I think this battle will help Taco John’s experience further growth. Last year was a banner year for growth for the franchise, and the brand was seeing growth back in 2021 as well.

After doing some digging, I learned that seven Taco John’s locations are owned by corporate; the plan for 2023 is to go from 375 stores to 400; and another 20 to 25 locations are planned for 2024. Per the Taco John’s website, initial layout for a franchise is between $942,000 and $1.4 for a single unit. A single franchise location generates annual revenue of around $1.2 million, on average.

Regarding Taco Bell, the brand is celebrating their victory—framed as a victory for all restaurants—with another of their famous and effective LTOs. On August 15, August 22, August 29, and September 5, Taco Bell guests can score a free Doritos Locos Taco. But the big celebration comes on September 12.

For that upcoming Taco Tuesday, Taco Bell will open a $5 million tab with DoorDash across the United States, with the exception of New Jersey. Again, Gregory’s owns the rights to the “Taco Tuesday” mark in the Garden State.

On September 12, Taco Bell will cover a portion of orders placed through the third-party delivery app to participating restaurants that offer Mexican cuisine. This does help the fast-food titan make the case that they fought this battle not just for themselves but all foodservice brands that wish to use the phrase “Taco Tuesday” without fear of legal action.

For further information, read the official Taco Bell press release below.

TACO BELL WILL HELP PAY FOR YOUR TACO TUESDAY CELEBRATION — EVEN IF IT’S NOT AT TACO BELL

Irvine, Calif. (August 8, 2023) – To celebrate the liberation of the Taco Tuesday trademark registration in 49 states, and to support and spotlight restaurants who now have the right to freely use Taco Tuesday, Taco Bell has announced that on Tuesday, September 12, Taco Tuesday fans (nearly) everywhere* can celebrate Taco Tuesday (nearly) anywhere – and Taco Bell will help pay for it.

On Taco Tuesday, September 12, Taco Bell, in partnership with DoorDash, is opening a $5 million taco tab to cover a portion of taco fans’ orders from any participating vendor selling Mexican cuisine. Because now that Taco Tuesday is free* – your tacos should be, too.

Leading up to the September 12 celebration, all Taco Bell locations will be offering a free Doritos® Locos Taco every Tuesday, no purchase necessary, on 8/15, 8/22, 8/29 and 9/5**.

“Taco Tuesday belongs to all who make, sell, eat and celebrate tacos, and this Free-For-All will not only thank taco fans who supported the cause, but will also spotlight local restaurants and vendors who can now embrace Taco Tuesdays without fear of legal action,” said Taco Bell U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, Taylor Montgomery. “When tacos win, we all win. We all win when Taco John’s decides to release its trademark registration, we all win when taco vendors everywhere are free to join the movement, and we all win when taco fans can freely celebrate and support Taco Tuesdays at Taco Bell or anywhere else.”

The Road to Freeing Taco Tuesday

In May 2023, Taco Bell took a bold step on behalf of taco lovers nationwide by filing legal petitions to cancel the two Taco Tuesday trademark registrations. The aim was simple: to free the phrase for restaurants nationwide. The message was clear: Taco Tuesday belongs to everyone, from Taco Bell to Taco John’s to your favorite local taco spot.

In late July, Taco John’s courageously decided to abandon its Taco Tuesday trademark registration. Not only did Taco John’s act benefit thousands of businesses across 49 states by making the term Taco Tuesday more freely available, Taco John’s also made a meaningful donation to Children of Restaurant Employees (CORE) for $40,000, which the Taco Bell Foundation has matched.

Supporting The Taco Community

Taco Bell has also committed to donating $1 million in partnership with the Taco Bell Foundation to support young people who make, sell, eat and celebrate tacos. Donations made by Rounding Up at checkout on Tuesdays will be matched up to $1 million. These donations will continue to fund the Taco Bell Foundation’s Community Grants and the Live Más Scholarship for fans and team members.

*The Taco Tuesday trademark registration has been canceled in all states except New Jersey. Therefore, the DoorDash offer will be limited to the 49 states where Taco Tuesday has been freed.

**NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Offer valid on Tuesdays 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, and 9/5 only during local store operating hours while supplies last. Limit one (1) regular Free Seasoned Beef Nacho Cheese Doritos®

Locos Tacos per person, per offer day, available at participating U.S. Taco Bell® locations only. Not available with delivery orders unless placed directly on the Taco Bell app (delivery fees, taxes and tip apply). App and web orders require inputting offer code and customer must add a DLT to their cart. Not valid with any other offer. No substitutions. No cash value. Void where prohibited. Terms: ta.co/terms.

About Taco Bell Corp.

For more information about Taco Bell, visit our website at www.TacoBell.com, our Newsroom at www.TacoBell.com/news or www.TacoBell.com/popular-links. You can also stay up to date on all things Taco Bell by following us on LinkedIn, TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and subscribing to our YouTube channel.

Images: Taco Bell

Redesigned and reformulated Novo Fogo ready-to-drink canned cocktails

July 25, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Novo Fogo Reformulates Brazilian RTDs

Novo Fogo Reformulates and Redesigns Brazilian RTDs

by David Klemt

Just before Tales of the Cocktail kicks off, Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça announces the reformulation of their award-winning ready-to-drink cocktail line.

As founder and CEO Dragos Axinte reveals on episode 97 of the Bar Hacks podcast, the RTD series now features key changes.

For example, the RTDs now come in 12-ounce slim cans rather than their original eight-ounce cans. As you can see, the design is also much more colorful and eye-catching.

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A post shared by Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça (@novofogo)

Of course, the changes aren’t simply cosmetic. Inside the can, each expression represents a new recipe. The last iteration of Novo Fogo RTDs was delicious and showcased their Silver Cachaça brilliantly. However, the new formulation offers even more robust flavor and drops the sweetness a bit.

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A post shared by Dragoș Axinte (@treerestrial)

Most importantly, the new RTDs are truly a pioneering beverage. Novo Fogo’s new canned cocktails are the first RTDs made with Brazilian cachaça ever to achieve USDA Organic certification.

This means that Novo Fogo’s entire lineup, from core expressions to special releases, is USDA-certified 100-percent organic. That’s a huge win for the company, for operators who feature their products, and for operators’ guests.

Operators will be able to introduce these new 12-ounce, nine-percent ABV RTDs to their guests shortly. They’re perfect as a refreshing summer cocktail, served on ice in buckets with limes for garnish.

NOVO FOGO ANNOUNCES NEW BRAZILIAN ORGANIC COCKTAIL

RTD Line Sets Industry Standard as the First-Ever USDA-Certified Organic Canned Cocktail Made with Brazilian Cachaça

SEATTLE, WA—Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça today announces that they have completely redesigned and reformulated their popular line of award-winning Brazilian canned cocktails, offering consumers a fresh way to experience their carbonated twist on Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha. Novo Fogo Brazilian Organic Cocktails come in three tropical flavors and are USDA-certified organic.

The award-winning, sustainability-oriented cachaça producer makes handcrafted cachaça from estate-grown sugarcane in Brazil’s Atlantic Rainforest and is a pioneer in spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. For over six years, Novo Fogo’s canned cocktails have introduced North American drinkers to Brazilian cachaça in an approachable, convenient, and delicious format. The current product evolution represents a giant leap forward in organic ingredient certification, packaging design, and flavor.

Novo Fogo’s Brazilian Organic Cocktails highlight three traditional Brazilian flavors—Lime, Passion Fruit, and Mango—that complement the base spirit of Novo Fogo Silver Cachaça, beloved by bartenders across the globe. The 100% natural ingredients have been reformulated to create a cocktail that is now certified organic by the USDA, a first for any cachaça-based RTD and a big win for Mother Earth. This breakthrough now makes Novo Fogo’s entire product line USDA-certified organic.

The colorful design of the 12 oz sleek cans evokes Novo Fogo’s origins in the Brazilian rainforest and emerged in collaboration with multi-Grammy-nominated dance music duo, SOFI TUKKER, who became co-owners and global ambassadors of Novo Fogo in October 2022. SOFI TUKKER’s vibrant, inclusive, and global perspective on electronic music has attracted legions of adoring fans worldwide, and Novo Fogo’s Brazilian Organic Cocktails are poised to accompany SOFI TUKKER’s music as the perfect concert cocktail.

Novo Fogo Brazilian Organic Cocktails feature new recipes that are full-flavored and not too sweet, each at 9% ABV with 150 calories and 12 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The aluminum cans have grown to 12 oz in volume, with 1.8 proper cocktail servings per can. Although they are new in every way, these updated cocktails continue to combine freshness, deliciousness, and shelf stability by virtue of their organic-certified ingredients that harmonize as balanced, carbonated drinks. Drink ‘em how you like ‘em, as long as they’re cold: straight from the chilled can, over ice in a glass, and with or without an extra squeeze of lime.

Novo Fogo is an award-winning Brazilian cachaça producer that handcrafts their spirits at their zero-waste distillery at the edge of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil’s southern state of Paraná. The purest representation of USDA-certified 100% organic sugarcane, Novo Fogo’s Silver Cachaça is the result of single pot distillation in small batches to maximize the flavors of local terroir in the finished spirit. Silver Cachaça is the base spirit for all three Brazilian Organic Cocktails.

“We have always been committed to genuinely reflect Brazilian culture in our brand persona, while also observing and respecting North American consumer trends. These new organic cocktails are a natural evolution of our understanding of the world and incorporate the positive, colorful, and vivid inspiration that SOFI TUKKER brought to the brand. As with everything we do these days, our new Brazilian Organic Cocktails represent the intersection of integrity and joy,” says Novo Fogo’s founder and CEO, Dragos Axinte.

Novo Fogo Brazilian canned cocktails are sold to distributors nationwide by 375 Park Avenue Spirits and online with a suggested retail price of $3.75 per can and $14.99 for a four-pack. To learn more about Novo Fogo products, please visit www.novofogo.com.

About Novo Fogo

A passionate advocate for sustainable practices in the spirits industry, Novo Fogo is a carbon-negative company that produces USDA-certified 100% organic cachaças at its zero-waste distillery in the heart of Brazil’s Atlantic Rainforest. Its production methods prioritize human and environmental sustainability; the company is proud of its all-female distiller team and its legacy reforestation project, The Un-Endangered Forest™, which seeks to restore 44 species of threatened native trees. Extending this ethos to its cocktail audience, Novo Fogo has been a trailblazer for sponsoring health and wellness initiatives for spirit industry members. The company’s product line intersects traditional Brazilian culture with modern cocktail trends of healthier drinking, such as low carbs, low ABV, and low calories. Seeking to build a business that can last 100 years, Novo Fogo has partnered with multi-Grammy-nominated global dance music duo SOFI TUKKER to foster increased awareness towards its brand of conscientious capitalism. Find Your Own Brazilian Zen™ by visiting https://www.novofogo.com.

About 375 Park Avenue Spirits

375 Park Avenue Spirits specializes in the premium- to luxury-spirit categories and their portfolio includes numerous expressions from leading international producers. Founded as Luctor International, LLC in 1981, 375 Park Avenue Spirits joined the Sazerac Company in early 2015 to act as an independent, yet fully integrated sales and marketing affiliate. The company is known today for creating an environment of growth for supplier partners in the domestic market for renown brands like Van Gogh Vodka from Holland, Sobieski Vodka from Poland, Cutty Sark Blended Scotch, J.P. Wiser’s Canadian Whisky, Paul John Single Malt Whisky from India, Scapegrace Gin from New Zealand, Novo Fogo Cachaça and many others. For more information on 375 Park Avenue Spirits, please visit www.375park.com.

Images courtesy of Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça

July 24, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Lab-grown Chicken Makes its Move

Lab-grown Chicken Makes its Move

by David Klemt

Lab-grown or cell-cultivated chicken from GOOD Meat.

A month after receiving USDA approval to serve lab-grown meat to restaurant guests, GOOD Meat and Upside Foods can boast support from two well-known chefs.

Lab-grown meat, also known as “cultivated” or “cell-cultivated” meat, has been approved by the USDA to be served to guests at two restaurants.

One, China Chilcano, is owned and operated by Chef José Andrés. The other restaurant debuting lab-grown meat is Bar Crenn by Chef Dominique Crenn. The former is in Washington, DC, while the latter is in San Francisco. Both GOOD Meat and Upside Foods operate out of California.

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Bar Crenn boasts one Michelin Star, and China Chilcano has enjoyed Bib Gourmand awards from the Michelin Guide for several years.

In other words, the two companies producing cell-cultivated meats and awarded USDA approval have chosen their debut restaurants well. These are high-profile, award-winning, exciting, and approachable restaurants run by revered chefs.

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Additionally, both Chef Andrés and Chef Crenn make their commitment to sustainability known. Further, Chef Crenn’s Atelier Crenn earned one of the first Green Star designations back in 2020. The restaurant also enjoys three Michelin Stars.

And we’re all well aware of Chef Andrés’ commitment to humanitarian efforts through World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization KRG Hospitality supports.

It’s early days but we’ll be following the diner response to cultivated meats at China Chilcano and Bar Crenn.

Lab-grown Meats

Before I dive further into cell-cultivated meats, I’ll address a few big questions:

Is lab-grown meat plant-based?
Are these products vegetarian?
Are these products vegan?

The answer to all three questions is no.

To be very clear, lab-grown meats are produce using using animal cells. Therefore, these are animal proteins and animal products.

The GOOD Meat chicken nutrition label reads as follows: “Cell-Cultivated Chicken (cultivated chicken cells, salt), Wheat Gluten, Soy Protein Concentrate, Sunflower and Coconut Oils, Contains less than 2% of Modified Food Starch, Natural Flavors, Salt, Soy Lecithin. Contains Wheat, Soy.”

Upside Foods’ label reads: “Cell-cultivated chicken, Maltodextrin, Transglutaminase (Binding Agent).”

In short, this is chicken.

What’s the Point?

So, you may be wondering why anyone is producing cell-cultivated chicken. GOOD Meat and Upside Foods answer this question on their websites.

In an effort to be succinct, these companies want us to do away with the harm to animals, ourselves, and the planet that results from traditional meat production.

Using cell cultivation to produce meat, a single cell can, per GOOD Meat, produce an “infinite amount of meat.” Zero animal slaughter. Millions to billions of acres of land can be used for something besides raising and slaughtering animals.

As Upside Foods explains it, “At scale, it’s simply a more efficient, more humane, and more future-friendly way to grow high-quality meat for food lovers everywhere.”

Further, it’s theorized that lab-grown meat production cuts water use for beef production (as an example) in half, keeps pollution out of our oceans, and removes millions of tons of CO2 emissions.

I’m not an environmental scientist or specialist, nor am I involved in food production. However, if these claims are accurate, that’s a lot of positivity for the future of our planet.

Considerations

First, we can’t expect everyone to believe lab-grown meats are safe. Some meat consumers are simply not going to find these products appealing.

Second, an array of consumers will look at cell-cultivated meats through various ethical and moral lenses.

Third, just the words “lab grown” and even “cell cultivated” will turn some guests off trying these meat products.

And then there’s the fact that GOOD Meat and Upside Foods chicken products are just now finding their ways into restaurants in the US. And by restaurants, I mean two. Two restaurants in the whole of the US. It’s simply too soon to know how they’ll be received.

Finally, cost. Operators are already running on razor-thin margins. They must consider the cost of these items, and the cost of how they’re perceived by guests.

I’ll admit that, right now, I like the idea of cell-cultivated meat. If accurate, I like what these products may be able to do for our planet. I eat meat and I love the idea of animals not suffering harm, abuse, fear, and slaughter.

I would try GOOD Meat chicken. And I’d try Upside Foods chicken, along with their other cell-cultivated products (beef meatballs, duck, pork, etc.). But I’m just one person, and I don’t know how well-received these items will be throughout North America.

To operators, I say keep these foods on your radar. You should know your guests better than anyone else, so you only you know if they’re ready for lab-grown meats on your menu.

Image: GOOD Meat

July 18, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

SEO Tips from AI: Hotels & Camps

SEO Tips from AI: Hotels, Camps & Lodges

by David Klemt

After asking ChatGPT to suggest SEO improvements for restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, we’ve done the same for the hotel space.

This is part two of our AI-generated SEO tips series. In part one, we focus on restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and eatertainment venues.

For this part, we ask ChatGPT about improving SEO for boutique hotels, independently owned hotels, boutique and luxury campgrounds, and boutique and luxury lodges.

The boutique and luxury outdoor experiential market is heating up. So, I was curious about what keywords and advice ChatGPT would recommend to help operators in this space stand out and improve their odds for discover.

Personally, I found some of the keyword suggestions helpful. However, these are terms we at KRG Hospitality already know to include in our brand identity and marketing plans.

Simply put, I don’t think AI rivals what humans can create when it comes to brand identity and marketing. But, you should read the following and decide for yourself.

What specific terms are the best for boutique or independently owned hotels to use for SEO ranking?

For boutique or independently owned hotels, it’s important to focus on specific terms that highlight the unique aspects of your property and appeal to your target audience. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial for SEO ranking:

Hotel Name: Ensure that your hotel’s name is prominently featured in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs to associate your website with your hotel’s name.
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for hotels in your area. For example, use terms like “boutique hotels in [location],” “[location] luxury accommodations,” or “independent hotels near [landmark].”
Unique Selling Points: Highlight the unique features and qualities of your boutique hotel. Optimize your website with keywords that reflect these selling points, such as “boutique hotel with rooftop pool,” “intimate luxury accommodations,” or “designer boutique hotel in [location].”
Style and Theme: If your boutique hotel has a specific style or theme, incorporate relevant keywords. For example, use terms like “vintage-inspired boutique hotel,” “modern boutique accommodations,” or “bohemian chic hotel in [location].”
Amenities and Services: Emphasize the distinctive amenities and services your boutique hotel offers. Optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings, such as “boutique hotel with spa,” “gourmet dining experiences,” or “personalized concierge services.”
Local Attractions and Experiences: If your boutique hotel is close to popular local attractions or offers unique experiences, mention them on your website. Optimize with keywords related to these attractions and experiences to attract visitors searching for accommodations near specific landmarks or seeking specific activities.
Sustainable or Eco-Friendly: If your boutique hotel has a focus on sustainability or eco-friendliness, incorporate related keywords. Use terms like “eco-friendly accommodations,” “green boutique hotel,” or “sustainable practices in [location].”
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage guests to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can boost your hotel’s visibility in search results and attract more bookings.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.
Social Media Integration: Integrate social media into your SEO strategy by linking your website to your hotel’s social media profiles. Engage with your audience, share updates about your hotel, and encourage user-generated content through social media channels.

Remember to conduct keyword research specific to your boutique hotel’s offerings, style, and target audience. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your hotel’s online visibility and attract more guests.

What specific terms are the best for boutique and luxury campgrounds and lodges to use for SEO ranking?

For boutique and luxury campgrounds and lodges, it’s important to use specific terms that highlight the unique features, amenities, and experiences your property offers. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial for SEO ranking:

Campground or Lodge Name: Ensure that your property’s name is prominently featured in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs to associate your website with your campground or lodge’s name.
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for campgrounds or lodges in your area. For example, use terms like “luxury campground in [location],” “[location] glamping site,” or “boutique lodge near [landmark].”
Nature and Outdoor Keywords: Emphasize the natural beauty and outdoor experiences available at your campground or lodge. Optimize your website with keywords related to activities like hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, or stargazing. Use terms like “nature retreat,” “wilderness campground,” or “outdoor adventure in [location].”
Unique Accommodations: If your campground or lodge offers unique accommodations like glamping tents, treehouses, or luxury cabins, highlight them on your website. Optimize with keywords like “glamping experience,” “luxury safari tents,” or “secluded treehouse retreat.”
Amenities and Services: Showcase the luxurious amenities and services your campground or lodge provides. Optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings, such as “heated swimming pool,” “private chef services,” “spa and wellness facilities,” or “concierge services.”
Sustainable or Eco-Friendly: If your campground or lodge follows sustainable practices or has an eco-friendly focus, incorporate related keywords. Use terms like “eco-conscious accommodations,” “sustainable camping,” or “green lodge in [location].”
Nearby Attractions and Activities: Highlight popular nearby attractions, landmarks, or outdoor activities that guests can enjoy during their stay. Optimize with keywords related to these attractions and activities to attract visitors searching for accommodations near specific points of interest.
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage guests to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can boost your campground or lodge’s visibility in search results and attract more bookings.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.
Social Media Integration: Integrate social media into your SEO strategy by linking your website to your campground or lodge’s social media profiles. Engage with your audience, share updates about your property, and encourage user-generated content through social media channels.

Remember to conduct keyword research specific to your campground or lodge’s offerings, location, and target audience. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your property’s online visibility and attract more guests.

Takeaway

Just like AI-generated tips for SEO and discovery for restaurants and bars, there needs to be a human element for hotels, campgrounds, and lodges.

Relying on AI to improve search engine ranking isn’t, at this point, the best strategy. Perhaps one day that will change, but today isn’t that day.

The answers to my questions do provide some good tips regarding specific keywords and SEO practices. However, I wouldn’t suggest that operators trust AI to write their listings or the pages on their websites.

As it stands, in my opinion, AI just can’t match what people can do when it comes to marketing, branding, and discovery.

Image: Levart_Photographer on Unsplash

July 17, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

SEO Tips from AI: Restaurants & Bars

SEO Tips from AI: Restaurants, Bars & Nightclubs

by David Klemt

We aren’t fans of artificial intelligence “creating” marketing plans but can chatbots help improve SEO by offering keywords and making other suggestions?

Since AI tools such as ChatGPT can instantly crawl the depths of the Internet, we want to know if they can provide “insider” tips. Perhaps they have a leg up when it comes to parsing what helps and what hurts SEO ranking.

Restaurant, bar, and nightclub websites still matter. Consider the latest SevenRooms data in regards to how people discover new places to dine, drink, and socialize. Two-thirds of consumers rely on word-of-mouth recommendations from family and friends. A third use Google.

So, that should show how important it is to ensure your restaurant, bar, or nightclub is showing up right away when people are using search engines.

For the first part of our AI SEO series, I ask ChatGPT for suggestions for restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and eatertainment venues. In the follow-up article, I ask for assistance for hotels, campgrounds, and lodges.

Note: ChatGPT’s answers are provided below unedited. There’s some repetition, which is to be expected.

What specific terms are the best for restaurants to use for SEO ranking?

When it comes to specific terms for SEO ranking for restaurants, it’s important to consider keywords that are relevant to your restaurant’s niche, location, and target audience. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial:

Cuisine Keywords: Incorporate specific cuisine-related keywords that reflect the type of food your restaurant serves. For example, if you have an Italian restaurant, use terms like “Italian cuisine,” “authentic Italian dishes,” or “Italian restaurant [location].”
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for restaurants in your area. For instance, use terms like “best restaurants in [location],” “[location] dining,” or “[location] food scene.”
Menu Items: Optimize your website for specific menu items that are popular or unique to your restaurant. Include descriptive keywords for these dishes, such as “signature seafood pasta,” “gourmet burger with truffle aioli,” or “vegan-friendly options.”
Dining Experience Keywords: Highlight specific aspects of your restaurant’s dining experience. For example, if you have a rooftop terrace, mention it with keywords like “rooftop dining [location]” or “alfresco dining with city views.”
Special Occasions: If your restaurant caters to special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or private events, optimize with related keywords. Use terms like “private event venue,” “birthday dinner reservations,” or “romantic anniversary restaurant.”
Farm-to-Table or Sustainable Keywords: If your restaurant emphasizes locally sourced or sustainable ingredients, incorporate related keywords. Use terms like “farm-to-table dining,” “organic ingredients,” or “sustainable seafood.”
Brunch or Breakfast Keywords: If your restaurant serves brunch or breakfast, optimize your website for keywords related to these meals. Use terms like “weekend brunch spot,” “best breakfast in [location],” or “bottomless mimosa brunch.”
Online Ordering and Delivery: If your restaurant offers online ordering or food delivery services, optimize your website with related keywords. Use terms like “online food ordering,” “food delivery [location],” or “order food online.”
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can boost your restaurant’s visibility in search results and attract more customers.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.

Remember, it’s crucial to conduct keyword research specific to your restaurant’s offerings and target audience. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your restaurant’s online visibility and attract more diners.

What specific terms are the best for bars to use for SEO ranking?

When it comes to specific terms for SEO ranking for bars, it’s important to consider keywords that are relevant to your bar’s theme, location, and target audience. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial:

Bar Name: Ensure that your bar’s name is prominently featured in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs to associate your website with your bar’s name.
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for bars in your area. For example, use terms like “best bars in [location],” “[location] nightlife,” or “bars near [landmark].”
Bar Type or Theme: Incorporate specific keywords related to your bar’s type or theme. For instance, if you have a sports bar, use terms like “sports bar,” “sports pub,” or “sports viewing in [location].” If your bar has a specific theme like a speakeasy, mention keywords like “speakeasy bar,” “1920s-inspired bar,” or “craft cocktails in a hidden bar.”
Drink Specialties: Highlight popular drinks or signature cocktails on your website and optimize the descriptions with relevant keywords. For example, use terms like “craft cocktails,” “mixology bar,” or “unique drink creations.”
Happy Hour and Specials: If your bar offers happy hour specials or unique promotions, optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings. Use terms like “happy hour deals,” “drink specials,” or “late-night promotions.”
Entertainment and Events: If your bar hosts live music, DJs, trivia nights, or other events, optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings. For instance, use terms like “live music bar,” “DJ nights,” or “weekly trivia at [bar name].”
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can boost your bar’s visibility in search results and attract more customers.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.
Social Media Integration: Integrate social media into your SEO strategy by linking your website to your bar’s social media profiles. Engage with your audience, share updates about your bar, and encourage user-generated content through social media channels.
Events Calendar: If your bar has a calendar of upcoming events, optimize it with keywords related to the types of events you host. For example, use terms like “live music schedule,” “karaoke nights,” or “themed parties at [bar name].”

Remember, it’s important to conduct keyword research specific to your bar’s offerings and target audience. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your bar’s online visibility and attract more customers.

What specific terms are the best for eatertainment venues similar to Topgolf or Punch Bowl Social to use for SEO ranking?

For eatertainment venues similar to Topgolf or Punch Bowl Social, it’s important to use specific terms that highlight the unique features, activities, and experiences your venue offers. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial for SEO ranking:

Venue Name: Ensure that your venue’s name is prominently featured in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs to associate your website with your venue’s name.
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for similar venues in your area. For example, use terms like “Topgolf-style venue in [location],” “entertainment center in [location],” or “[location] eatertainment complex.”
Interactive Games and Activities: Highlight the various interactive games and activities available at your venue. Optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings, such as “interactive golf games,” “arcade entertainment,” “bowling alley,” “virtual reality experiences,” or “multiplayer experiences.”
Social Atmosphere: Emphasize the social and vibrant atmosphere of your venue. Use keywords that convey a fun and engaging experience, such as “socializing with friends,” “lively entertainment environment,” or “party and event destination.”
Food and Drink: Highlight the dining and beverage options available at your eatertainment venue. Optimize your website with keywords related to your menu, such as “gourmet food and craft cocktails,” “full-service restaurant with a bar,” or “delicious bites and refreshing drinks.”
Entertainment Variety: Showcase the variety of entertainment options available at your venue. Use keywords related to live performances, music, comedy shows, or special events. For example, “live music venue,” “comedy club,” or “special event space.”
Private Events and Group Activities: If your venue caters to private events or offers group activities, optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings. Use terms like “private event venue,” “corporate team-building activities,” or “party room reservations.”
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage guests to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can improve your venue’s visibility in search results and attract more visitors.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.
Social Media Integration: Integrate social media into your SEO strategy by linking your website to your venue’s social media profiles. Engage with your audience, share updates about upcoming events or promotions, and encourage user-generated content through social media channels.

Remember to conduct keyword research specific to your eatertainment venue’s offerings, target audience, and location. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your venue’s online visibility and attract more visitors.

What specific terms are the best for nightclubs to use for SEO ranking?

When it comes to specific terms for SEO ranking for nightclubs, it’s crucial to consider keywords that are relevant to your nightclub’s niche, location, and target audience. Here are some specific terms that can be beneficial:

Nightclub Name: Ensure that your nightclub’s name is prominently featured in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs to associate your website with your nightclub’s name.
Location-Based Keywords: Include location-specific keywords throughout your website to target customers searching for nightclubs in your area. For example, use terms like “nightclubs in [location],” “[location] nightlife,” or “dance clubs near [location].”
Music Genre: Incorporate specific music genre-related keywords that reflect the type of music your nightclub specializes in. For instance, if you focus on electronic dance music, use terms like “EDM nightclub,” “electronic dance club,” or “techno parties in [location].” If you cater to hip-hop enthusiasts, include keywords like “hip-hop club,” “urban nightlife,” or “R&B parties in [location].”
DJ Names: If your nightclub regularly hosts renowned DJs or has resident DJs, mention their names on your website. People often search for specific DJs, so including their names can increase your nightclub’s visibility.
Event Themes: Highlight specific event themes or special nights that your nightclub offers. Optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings. For example, use terms like “themed parties,” “ladies’ night,” “Latin night,” or “80s retro dance party.”
VIP Experience: If your nightclub offers VIP experiences, bottle service, or VIP table reservations, optimize your website with keywords related to these offerings. Use terms like “VIP nightclub experience,” “bottle service in [location],” or “VIP table bookings.”
Dress Code: If your nightclub has a specific dress code policy, mention it on your website and optimize with relevant keywords like “nightclub dress code,” “dress to impress,” or “formal attire.”
Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can improve your nightclub’s visibility in search results and attract more customers.
Local SEO: Implement local SEO strategies by optimizing your website for local search results. This includes creating and optimizing your Google My Business profile, ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across directories, and getting listed in local online directories.
Social Media Integration: Integrate social media into your SEO strategy by linking your website to your nightclub’s social media profiles. Engage with your audience, share updates about upcoming events, and encourage user-generated content through social media channels.

Remember to conduct keyword research specific to your nightclub’s offerings and target audience. Regularly monitor your website’s performance, track keyword rankings, and adapt your SEO strategy as needed to improve your nightclub’s online visibility and attract more attendees.

Takeaway

Operators need to pay attention to SEO ranking and discovery. They need to own their listings and make sure the information is accurate.

While AI can help with keywords and search terms, it doesn’t appear to be at the point where it can manage your SEO or marketing strategy. There are platforms like Toast, Restaurant365 and SevenRooms that can make marketing simpler. However, people still do the best job.

At KRG Hospitality, for instance, we create brand strategy plans. We also partner with restaurant marketing experts like Matt Plapp and America’s Best Restaurants.

Can AI streamline tasks? Yes, it can simplify and, in some cases, take over some tasks. Can it create effective, engaging marketing strategies that perform better than those created and executed by humans? In our experience and opinion, no.

I think the answers to my SEO questions above are helpful in terms of making suggestions that operators can use today to improve their odds of being discovered by guests. And I still don’t think operators can offload marketing responsibilities to AI.

Image: Mariia Shalabaieva on Unsplash

July 12, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 Revealed: 51-100

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 Revealed: 51 to 100

by David Klemt

The Pontiac bar in Hong Kong, an inclusive, welcoming venue with an all-woman team.

One week from the ceremony revealing bars one through 50 of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, the World’s 50 Best Bars announces venues 51 to 100.

Sponsored by Perrier, the World’s 50 Best Bars will announce the top 50 bars in Asia on Tuesday, July 18. This year’s ceremony will take place in Hong Kong at 20:25 local time.

However, we now know which bars have earned placement on the back half of this year’s list. As Mark Sansom, director of content for the World’s 50 Best points out on episode 82 of Bar Hacks, an expansion for their lists is necessary. There are simply too many outstanding operators and teams to not honor an additional 50 venues.

To that end, the list below represents the third edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, 51 to 100. In my opinion, and I think the World’s 50 Best and bar professionals across the world agree, this list is every bit as prestigious as one through 50. Let’s not downplay the fact that these are 50 of the best bars in all of Asia. It’s no small feat to earn a spot on this list.

If you’re interested in finding more amazing venues throughout Asia (and around the world), click here to learn about the World’s 50 Best Discovery tool.

By the Numbers

As you’ll see below, Singapore dominates this year’s 51 to 100 list with eight bars. I expect Singapore pick up even more spots next week.

Japan boasts seven bars on the list, with Osaka, Okinawa, and Kumamoto making debuts. Hong Kong, Taiwan, and India each have claim five slots. Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are also well represented with four bars each.

Vietnam and China each have three bars among this year’s 51 to 100. Two bars in Seoul, South Korea, earned placement as well.

However, it’s Kathmandu, Nepal, with two bars that stands out the most to me. Numbers 100 and 70 belong to Kathmandu, and are both new to the list.

To review the list on the World’s 50 Best website, please click here.

Asia’s 50 Best Bars: 100 to 51

Barc (Kathmandu, Nepal)
Loft (Bangkok, Thailand)
Honky Tonks Tavern (Hong Kong)
Tell Camellia (Hong Kong)
Enigma (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
Origin Grill & Bar (Singapore)
PCO (New Delhi, India)
Bar Mood (Taipei, Taiwan)
Bar Trench (Tokyo, Japan)
Aha Saloon (Taipei, Taiwan)
Union Trading Company (Shanghai, China)
The Wise King (Hong Kong)
The Sailing Bar (Nara, Japan)
The Odd Couple (Shanghai, China)
Mizunara: The Library (Hong Kong)
The Haflington (Hanoi, Vietnam)
Yakoboku (Kumamoto, Japan)
D.Bespoke (Singapore)
Bar Rocking Chair (Kyoto, Japan)
El Lequio (Okinawa, Japan)
Offtrack (Singapore)
#FindTheLockerRoom (Bangkok, Thailand)
Three X Co (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Wishbone Bar (Semarang, Indonesia)
The Back Room (Manila, Philippines)
No Sleep Club (Singapore)
Nighthawk (Singapore)
Pine & Co (Seoul, South Korea)
Moonrock (Tainan, Taiwan)
Epic (Shanghai, China)
Bitters & Co. (Kathmandu, Nepal)
Asia Today (Bangkok, Thailand)
Coley (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Hideaway (Goa, India)
Reka (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
The Elephant Room (Singapore)
Tippling Club (Singapore)
Craftroom (Osaka, Japan)
Last Word (Singapore)
Hoots’ (New Delhi, India)
Opium (Bangkok, Thailand)
Home (New Delhi, India)
Americano (Mumbai, India)
Gold Bar (Tokyo, Japan)
Junglebird (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Room by Le Kief (Taipei, Taiwan)
The Pontiac (Hong Kong)
To Infinity and Beyond (Taipei, Taiwan)
Charles H (Seoul, South Korea)

Be sure to log into the live stream to watch the one through 50 announcement live.

Congratulations to each of the operators and bar teams above! Cheers!

Image courtesy of the World’s 50 Best Bars

July 11, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Tech this Out: Rise of the Cobots

Tech this Out: Rise of the Cobots

by David Klemt

As technological innovations continue to flood the hospitality industry, restaurant and hotel robots appear to be on the rise.

Or, perhaps more accurately, robotics companies appear to be targeting hospitality more.

There were, for example, far more robots on the National Restaurant Association Show floor this year. Beverage-making robots, server bots, room service delivery robots, lobby “host” and information bots, automated robot arms… There were robots in each hall.

Interestingly, however, a different word is beginning to take hold: “cobot.”

While the concept isn’t new—cobots have been working in other industries—the word is likely new to hospitality professionals.

Simply put, “cobot” is a portmanteau of “collaborative robot.” These are, therefore, robots that work alongside and with humans. In other words, the term implies that these robots aren’t here to replace people.

Rather, we’re to believe that cobots are just here to take over hazardous and tedious tasks.

Dropping fries? Let the cobot do it. Flipping patties? Why should a human do that when we have cobots? Food is up? Send out the serverbot. Table needs turning? The cobot can drop the dishes, flatware, and glassware to the dishwasher station.

It’s difficult for me to not be skeptical. “Cobot” may aim to imply collaboration, but how long until most of the back of house is automated? How long until members of the kitchen team go from “freed up” to replaced fully?

On the flip side, however, I do see the appeal. Some tasks are tedious. There are hazardous tasks. Labor costs are too high. It is difficult to find and retain talent.

Cobots and other forms of automation offer viable solutions.

Cobots, Roll Out!

So, are these pie-in-the-sky vanity prototypes getting media attention? Or are there really cobots available?

If you have the money and the inclination, these robots aren’t vaporware. There are robots designed to take on several restaurant and hotel tasks that can work at your venue today.

Of course, you have to keep your back-of-house and front-of-house footprint and layout in mind. Perhaps more importantly, you also need to understand how your guests feel about technology, automation, and robots.

I don’t mean making assumptions, either. No, not every Millennial or member of Gen Z is tech-hungry. In fact, some are tech-averse and don’t want robots making or delivering their food. It’s not, as some would say, a vibe.

This is to say, the decision to bring cobots into your business isn’t just about cost. This robots will affect your bottom line in various ways, affect your team, and affect the guest experience. In turn, that means they affect your brand.

Of course, cobots and automation do work with some concepts and brands. If automation and tech-savviness are part of the brand, cobots should work.

However, it’s wise to proceed cautiously and intentionally.

Guidance, Information and Entertainment

SoftBank Robotics manufactures Pepper, a robot my friends and I have interacted with in Las Vegas.

Formerly the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, we’ve played around with Pepper at the Waldorf Astoria over the years. Pepper has offered to help us check in, provide information about the hotel, told us jokes, and played music and danced with us. (It’s possible we’ve danced with Pepper after visiting the hotel’s Moët & Chandon vending machine.)

Another interactive robot is Guiderbot G2, also known as Peanut, by Keenon Robotics. I’ve interacted with Peanut at the 2023 NRA Show in Chicago and this year’s Hospitality Show in Las Vegas. Peanut is, for lack of a better word, cute and people seem to want to engage with it.

As one may guess from the formal name of Guiderbot, Peanut is tasked with a mission similar to Pepper’s.

Delivery and Bussing

I also “met” Keenon’s Butlerbot W3, Peanut’s room service delivering peer. Interestingly, the four doors can be configured to best deliver to a guest or guests.

Then there are the Dinerbots, a series of Keenon robots that can “work” at restaurants and drop orders off at tables.

Spend any amount of time on most hospitality trade show floors and you’ll encounter front-of-house delivery cobots. And, of course, these robots can be used to clear tables and pop by the dishwashing station.

Production

Most operators, when thinking about automation, are likely familiar with Flippy, Flippy 2, and Flippy Lite.

From Miso Robotics, this family of robots features robot arms that tend to fryers. That a Flippy can handle just about any fried food and fit in most kitchens without much modification (if any) makes these cobots attractive.

From what I’m seeing, robotic arms are the cobots du jour. Along with Flippy there are the Intelligent French Fry Robotic Solution from Atosa; FryBot from Lab2Fab; and the Wingman from Nala Robotics. And that’s just a few of the cobot arms out there.

Of similar design are a variety of automated beverage-producing robots. At the moment, these tend to be robotic arms contained within a trailer or kiosk that are capable of quickly serving personalized coffees. One impressive example is Robojo by Zink.

There are also automated make lines, such as the Robochef SmartLine and TechMagic P-Robo.

We don’t know how long it will be until robots are commonplace in restaurants. For now, they seem to be at home mostly in a select few chain restaurants, niche operations in destination markets, and hotels.

However, as we all know, as tech goes from early adoption to ubiquity, cost becomes less of a barrier of entry. My concerns, for now, are the risks to people’s jobs and the impact on the guest experience.

Image: Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

July 5, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

We Ask ChatGPT to Write Marketing Plans

We Ask ChatGPT to Write Marketing Plans

by David Klemt

The hype surrounding artificial intelligence and chatbots in general, and ChatGPT in particular, is still going strong and likely won’t slow any time soon.

Of course, the hype focuses on the capabilities of various AI platforms. So far, the promise is that chatbots and other forms of AI will make our lives easier. They’ll perform “mundane” tasks that bog down humans so that we can center our attention on higher-level functions.

Unfortunately, many companies enamored already with the current capabilities aren’t giving all their employees more complex or creative tasks. Instead, they’re automating what they can—putting their faith in nascent technology—and firing humans.

We’ve played around with ChatGPT before. We’ve also spoken with Bing and Bard. And so far the results have always been…less than impressive, shall I say.

What they’ve produced for us as far as food and drink menus is mediocre, at best. Other interactions have resulted in our request being denied.

So, that got me thinking. Maybe these chatbots can’t secure potential guests reservations or waitlist spots (at least not without significant manipulation). And perhaps the menus it writes are far too basic. Are they able to replace the human element and give us not just advice but an entire marketing plan?

Well, you’ll find out below.

Can you create a marketing plan for an upscale restaurant in Toronto, Ontario, Canada?

Marketing Plan for an Upscale Restaurant in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Define Your Target Market: Identify your target audience for the upscale restaurant. Consider factors such as demographics (age, income level, occupation), psychographics (lifestyle, interests), and dining preferences. For example, your target market could be affluent professionals, food enthusiasts, or tourists seeking a high-end dining experience.
Develop a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Determine what sets your upscale restaurant apart from the competition. It could be a unique menu concept, exceptional service, a specific cuisine, or a breathtaking ambiance. Your USP should be compelling and communicate the value customers will receive by choosing your restaurant.
Branding and Positioning: Create a strong brand identity that resonates with your target market. Develop a logo, color palette, and visual elements that convey the upscale and sophisticated nature of your restaurant. Craft a positioning statement that highlights your USP and appeals to the desires and aspirations of your target audience.
Online Presence: Build a professional website that showcases your restaurant’s ambiance, menu offerings, and reservation options. Optimize the website for search engines to increase online visibility. Leverage social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to share captivating visuals, engage with customers, and promote special offers or events.
Local Search Optimization: Ensure your restaurant appears in local search results by optimizing your Google My Business profile and other online directories. Encourage customers to leave positive reviews to enhance your restaurant’s reputation and credibility.
Content Marketing: Create valuable content related to the restaurant industry, culinary trends, and fine dining experiences. Develop a blog or share articles on your website to establish your restaurant as a thought leader. Utilize email marketing campaigns to stay connected with customers, share updates, and offer exclusive promotions.
Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with local influencers, food bloggers, and social media personalities who align with your restaurant’s brand. Invite them for exclusive tastings or events to generate buzz and increase exposure. Encourage them to share their experiences and recommendations with their followers.
Strategic Partnerships: Forge partnerships with complementary businesses in the area, such as luxury hotels, theaters, or art galleries. Explore cross-promotion opportunities, joint events, or special packages to attract their clientele and expand your reach.
Event Marketing: Host unique events, such as wine tastings, chef collaborations, or themed evenings, to attract new customers and provide memorable experiences. Promote these events through your website, social media channels, and local event listings to generate excitement and drive reservations.
Customer Loyalty Program: Implement a customer loyalty program to incentivize repeat visits and referrals. Offer exclusive perks, personalized offers, or a points-based system to reward loyal patrons and encourage them to bring friends and family.
Community Involvement: Engage with the local community by participating in charity events, sponsoring local initiatives, or collaborating with neighboring businesses. This involvement fosters goodwill, enhances brand reputation, and builds a loyal customer base.
Monitor and Measure: Continuously monitor the performance of your marketing efforts using key metrics such as website traffic, reservation rates, customer feedback, and social media engagement. Use this data to refine your strategies and optimize your marketing campaigns.

Remember, an effective marketing plan is adaptable and should evolve based on market trends, customer feedback, and business goals. Regularly assess and adjust your strategies to ensure your upscale restaurant maintains a competitive edge and remains top-of-mind among discerning diners in Toronto.

Can you write a social media marketing plan for a neighborhood bar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada?

Social Media Marketing Plan for a Neighborhood Bar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Define Your Social Media Goals: Identify the specific goals you want to achieve through social media, such as increasing brand awareness, driving foot traffic, promoting events or specials, and fostering customer engagement and loyalty.
Identify Target Audience: Determine the demographics and interests of your target audience. For a neighborhood bar, this may include locals, young professionals, college students, and individuals interested in nightlife and community gatherings.
Choose Social Media Platforms: Select social media platforms that align with your target audience and business objectives. Consider platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, based on their popularity and relevance to your target market.
Content Strategy: Develop a content strategy that showcases the unique aspects of your neighborhood bar. Mix promotional content, such as happy hour deals or event announcements, with engaging and shareable content, such as behind-the-scenes glimpses, customer spotlights, or cocktail recipes. Encourage user-generated content by running contests or featuring customer photos and experiences.
Visual Branding: Create a consistent visual identity across your social media profiles. Use high-quality, eye-catching images and videos that reflect the ambiance, drinks, and overall vibe of your bar. Incorporate your logo and brand colors to enhance recognition and reinforce brand identity.
Engage with Followers: Regularly monitor and respond to comments, messages, and reviews on your social media platforms. Engage with followers by asking questions, running polls, and sparking conversations. Show appreciation for positive feedback and address any concerns promptly and professionally.
Local Influencers and Collaborations: Partner with local influencers, bloggers, or popular accounts to promote your bar. Invite them for tastings or to host events at your venue. Their endorsement can help increase visibility, attract new patrons, and create buzz among the local community.
Promote Special Events and Offers: Leverage social media to promote special events, live music performances, themed nights, and limited-time offers. Create event pages, share event details, and encourage followers to RSVP and share with their friends. Consider partnering with local artists, musicians, or charities to enhance community engagement.
User-Generated Content and Reviews: Encourage customers to share their experiences at your bar by creating branded hashtags, running photo contests, or offering incentives for leaving reviews. Repost and share user-generated content to showcase the lively and welcoming atmosphere of your neighborhood bar.
Social Media Advertising: Consider allocating a portion of your marketing budget to targeted social media advertising. Utilize the platforms’ advertising tools to reach a wider audience, promote specific events or offerings, and drive traffic to your bar. Experiment with different ad formats, such as carousel ads or video ads, to maximize engagement.
Social Media Management Tools: Utilize social media management tools, such as Hootsuite or Buffer, to schedule posts, monitor analytics, and streamline your social media efforts. These tools can help you maintain a consistent posting schedule and track the effectiveness of your social media campaigns.
Measure and Adjust: Regularly monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as follower growth, engagement rate, reach, and conversions. Analyze the data to assess the effectiveness of your social media efforts and make informed decisions on adjustments to your strategy. Experiment with different content types, posting times, and promotional strategies based on the insights gained.

By implementing this social media marketing plan, you can effectively engage with your local audience, increase brand awareness, and foster a sense of community around your neighborhood bar in Vancouver.

Takeaway

Perhaps programmers and engineers can squeeze more in-depth results out of AI-powered chatbots. That tells me that these platforms aren’t quite ready for the average person.

Speaking plainly, the ChatGPT results above are underwhelming. In part, this is because any operator who attends an industry trade show and sits in on a marketing session will walk away with similar information. More importantly, they’ll take home at least a nugget or two of higher-level advice they can implement immediately.

The same can be said for anyone following a marketing account on Instagram: they’re sharing high-level tips at this point.

When we look at what ChatGPT suggests, it’s surface-level at best. Crucially, it’s too general to really be effective. The what may be there, but not the how to achieve consistent results. Moreover, would you, as a client, want to pay a consulting or marketing agency for an AI-generated marketing plan? Wouldn’t you expect an effective, impactful plan created specifically for your concept?

Artificial intelligence can be impressive. The technology has the capability to wow. But creating at a level equal to or above the human element? It’s just not there, in my opinion.

Automating the scheduling of human-generated social media and email marketing posts? Effective. Asking chatbots to generate those assets? Proceed with caution.

Image: ilgmyzin on Unsplash