Ahhhh, the lazy days of summer are quickly fading and the hint of a new season is finally here. I’m fortunate to live in a part of the country where I can see and feel the seasons change. I must admit, Autumn is by far, my personal favorite. No matter where your restaurant is located, it should reflect the feel of a new season… The change of a new season is the perfect opportunity to sit with your BOH staff and go over ways to bring the season into your establishment. It can be done most effectively with foods, spices and colors of the season. A hint of nutmeg,pumpkin, vanilla, chai, butternut squash, apple, ginger, pomegranate are just a small sampling of some spectacular flavors to add to the menu. It doesn’t matter if you own a casual sandwich shoppe or an upscale Italian eatery – make sure your restaurant honors the renewal of a fresh harvest.
The quickest and easiest way to bring the seasons to your customers is through your “Specials Menu.” That sandwich shoppe, can add a butternut squash soup and a vanilla chai latte to the luncheon line up. That upscale eatery, can easily add a spicy cheddar and pumpkin risotto. A brown sage butter sauce served over cooked spicy carrots, can make a wonderful side dish. Think of pear infused wines. Get creative and show your customers a great time by bringing this colorful season table-side.
Fall is the kick-off season to comfort food. We go back to warm dishes and slightly heartier meals. The change in seasons is a wonderful time to review menus – what’s working and what’s not? Menus should be reviewed each season and changed at least once a year to keep them fresh and intriguing to your customers. Important note ** changing menu items doesn’t always have to coincide with changing prices. In fact, the two should not necessarily go hand in hand. You want your clientele to look forward to the new items you’re offering and not fear, that each time the menu offers a new look – their pockets will be affected! More on pricing in a future blog.
Most importantly, embrace the changing seasons wherever you are… Invite your staff to boldly embrace their culinary choices and fall into the season!
HERE’S TO SUCCESS!!!