Food presentation plays a vital role in the dining experience, and a restaurant cannot undervalue its importance. Beyond just satisfying hunger, diners crave a multisensory experience that engages their sight, smell, and taste. The presentation of a dish is the first impression a customer receives, and it has the power to entice and excite before the first bite. From vibrant colors and artful arrangements to carefully curated textures and enticing garnishes, thoughtful food presentation sets the stage for a memorable culinary journey. It communicates the chef’s creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to quality, elevating the dining experience to a higher level.

 

With the rise of social media platforms, sharing food photos has become a popular trend. A study by Maru/Matchbox revealed that 69% of millennials take pictures of their food before eating, emphasizing the significance of visually appealing dishes for social media sharing.

 

A restaurant can enhance its dish presentation and plating in several ways to create visually appealing and enticing meals. Here are some tips:

 

Consider the overall plating vision: Develop a cohesive plating concept that aligns with the restaurant’s style and cuisine. This can include consistent color palettes, plating techniques, or presentation styles that tie the dishes together.

 

 

Attention to plate selection: Choose plates and serving dishes that complement the style and aesthetic of the cuisine. Consider the plate size, shape, and color to enhance the dish’s visual impact.

 

Use vibrant and contrasting colors: Incorporate various colors in the dish using fresh ingredients, such as colorful fruits, vegetables, herbs, or edible flowers. Create contrast between components to make them visually appealing.

 

Proper portioning and spacing: Pay attention to portion sizes and arrange the dish’s components in an organized and balanced manner. Leave enough open space on the plate to allow the food to stand out and avoid overcrowding.

 

Garnish strategically: Use edible garnishes like herbs, micro greens, or sauces to add color and texture. Garnishes should complement the flavors of the dish and enhance its overall presentation.

 

Pay attention to texture and height: Incorporate different textures in the dish, such as crunchy elements or creamy sauces, to add visual interest. Consider creating depth and dimension by layering or stacking ingredients to make the food visually dynamic.

 

Play with shapes and forms: Experiment with different shapes and forms of ingredients to add creativity and uniqueness to the dish. Use molds or cut ingredients into geometric shapes to create visual appeal.

 

Arrangement is important: Place the different components of the dish thoughtfully and strategically. Consider the ingredients’ natural flow and arrange them visually pleasingly, such as using the rule of thirds or creating asymmetrical balance.

 

Use the right tools: Select appropriate utensils or tools for each dish to enhance the overall presentation. For example, use tweezers for precise placement of delicate ingredients or a squeeze bottle for precise sauce drizzling.

 

Continuous training and refinement: Provide training to the kitchen staff on plating techniques and regularly evaluate and refine the presentation of dishes to maintain consistency and improve over time.

 

With each beautifully plated dish, a restaurant demonstrates its dedication to nourishing its patrons, stimulating their senses, and creating a lasting impression that will keep them coming back for more.

 

Sources:

https://www.webstaurantstore.com/article/200/basic-guide-to-food-presentation.html

Openai.com

The restaurant industry in the USA offers a wide range of successful franchise opportunities. While the “top” restaurant franchises can vary based on different factors such as revenue, growth, or brand recognition, here are some well-known and highly regarded restaurant franchises in the country:

 

• McDonald’s
• Subway
• Chick-fil-A
• Taco Bell
• Dunkin’ Donuts
• Pizza Hut
• Domino’s Pizza
• Wendy’s
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Panera Bread

Choosing a restaurant franchise to invest in can be challenging as there are many factors to consider. First, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of restaurant franchises.

 

Pros of Investing in a Restaurant Franchise

Investing in a restaurant franchise can offer various advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common pros and cons to consider.

Name recognition and reputation: Restaurant franchises often have an established brand name and reputation, which can help attract customers and generate business more quickly than starting a restaurant from scratch. Customers may already be familiar with the brand, leading to increased trust and loyalty.

 

Training and support: Franchise companies typically provide franchisees with training programs and ongoing support. This can include assistance with site selection, marketing strategies, operational guidelines, and employee training. Such support can be valuable, especially for individuals with limited experience in the restaurant industry.

 

Streamlined operations and proven systems: Franchise systems have well-defined operational procedures and processes. These systems can help streamline the restaurant’s day-to-day operations and minimize the risk of errors or inefficiencies. Franchise companies often have tried-and-tested methods that have proven successful in multiple locations.

 

Cons of Investing in a Restaurant Franchise:

Cost and fees: Owning a restaurant franchise involves significant upfront costs, including franchise fees, royalties, and advertising fees. These financial obligations can reduce the business’s profitability, especially in the early stages. Additionally, franchise agreements may require ongoing payments to the franchisor.

 

Limited control: As a franchisee, you are contractually bound by the rules, guidelines, and operational procedures set by the franchisor. This can limit your ability to make independent decisions and adapt the business to local market conditions. Franchisees must adhere to the franchisor’s standards and may have little control over menu changes or business strategies.

 

Shared reputation and risks: While an established brand can be an advantage, it also means that the franchise’s reputation is shared among all its locations. If another franchisee performs poorly or faces negative publicity, it can impact your own franchise’s reputation and success. Franchisees also face the risk of the franchisor encountering financial difficulties or going out of business.

 

If you are ready to take the leap and invest in a restaurant franchise, here are some steps you can take to make an informed decision:

 

1. Research different franchises: Research various restaurant franchises and their business models. Review their menu, customer base, marketing strategy, and financials. Also, consider the franchise fee, royalties, and other fees associated with owning a franchise. Not all franchises have the same fee structure!
2. Check the franchisor’s track record: Research the franchisor’s track record regarding their financial stability, success rate, and support for their franchisees. Look for testimonials from existing franchisees to get an idea of their experience with the franchisor.
3. Analyze the market: Consider the demographics and market demand for the franchise in your area. This will help you determine whether the franchise will be successful in your local market.
4. Seek professional advice: Consider contacting a restaurant consultant like Synergy, who has over 30 years of experience working with restaurant startups, franchises, and other food service operations.

 

You may also be interested in these restaurant startup guides:

 

Restaurant Startups: Logo, Name, and Branding – What You Need to Know

How to Open a Restaurant: 16 Steps to Launch Your Restaurant

 

Sources:

OpenAi.com

We’ve all heard the saying: “Location, location, location!” Choosing the right location for a new restaurant is crucial to its success.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a location for your new restaurant:

Demographics: Analyzing the demographic data of the area can provide valuable insights into the type of cuisine that will be popular and the price point that will be acceptable. Look for population, age, income, and education level information to determine the right target audience.

 

Analyze your menu: Look at the types of cuisine you offer, and the price points for your dishes. This can help you determine the kind of customer interested in your restaurant.

Conduct market research: This can involve surveys or focus groups with potential customers. Ask questions about their dining preferences, frequency of eating out, and favorite cuisines.

Analyze your competition: Look at the restaurants in your area that offer similar cuisine and price points. This can help you determine what types of customers are attracted to those restaurants.

Analyze demographics of the area: Look at the demographic data of the area where your restaurant is located. This can include information on age, income, education level, and other factors.

Use customer data: Analyze data from your point-of-sale system, including purchase history and customer feedback, to determine who your current customers are and what they like about your restaurant.

Competition: Conducting a competitive analysis of the area can help identify your potential competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. This analysis can help you to find a unique selling point for your restaurant that will help it stand out from the competition.

Visibility: Choose a location visible to potential customers, with easy access and plenty of foot traffic. You want to be in a location easily accessible by car or public transportation, and an area with high foot traffic, such as a busy street or shopping center.

Cost: Consider the cost of the location, including rent, utilities, and other expenses. While it’s essential to find a site that is visible and easily accessible, it’s also vital to ensure that the cost of the location is reasonable and sustainable.

Zoning: Make sure the location is properly zoned for a restaurant.

Zoning refers to the local government regulations that dictate what types of businesses are allowed to operate in specific areas. For restaurants, zoning laws typically regulate factors such as the size of the restaurant, the number of parking spaces required, the types of food that can be served, and the hours of operation.

The specific zoning laws that apply to restaurants can vary depending on the location. Some areas may have specified zones designated for restaurants or commercial businesses. In other areas, restaurants may operate in residential zones if they meet specific requirements.

Consult with local authorities and research the zoning laws in the area to ensure that comply with all regulations.

With these tips in mind, you can better determine the best location for your new venture. If you need professional assistance in finding the best spot for your restaurant, please reach out to Synergy.

 

More Restaurant Startup Resources

12 Key Tips to Launching a Successful Restaurant

How to Open a Restaurant: 16 Steps to Launch Your Restaurant

 

Sources:

– ChatGPT openai.com

– Land Use and Zoning Considerations for New and Start-up Restaurants

 

The cost of food waste for the U.S. restaurant industry is a staggering $162 billion annually. Reducing waste in a restaurant is an important step towards cutting costs and minimizing environmental impact through wasted resources and energy that goes into food production. Here are some ways that restaurants can reduce their waste:

 

1. Implement a food waste reduction program: A food waste reduction program involves tracking and analyzing food waste to identify areas where waste can be reduced. This program can help restaurants identify where to reduce waste and develop strategies to minimize it. It can also save the restaurant money by reducing food costs.

 

2. Use sustainable packaging: Think about all those single-use plastic items used in restaurants for both the consumers and for food prep—forks, knives, spoons, lids, containers, and straws. Switching to eco-friendly packaging options such as biodegradable or compostable products can reduce the amount of waste generated by the restaurant. Reusable containers for takeout and delivery orders can also help reduce waste.

 

3. Compost food waste: Composting food waste can divert it from landfills and turn it into nutrient-rich soil for gardens and farms. Many municipalities offer composting services, or restaurants can start their own  If you’re in North America, here is a handy resource for finding a composting facility near you: findacomposter.com

4. Use energy-efficient equipment: Energy-efficient equipment can reduce the amount of energy used in the restaurant, which can help lower operating costs and reduce the restaurant’s carbon footprint.

 

5. Donate excess food: Donating excess food to local food banks or charities can help reduce food waste and provide food to those in need. You may even be eligible for tax credits under the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act.

 

Keeping food waste to a minimum will reduce your carbon footprint and cut costs. It’s a win-win! Read more ways to increase your sustainability.

 

 

Sources:

ChatGPT from openai.com

https://foodprint.org/blog/restaurants-food-waste/

Sustainability has become a buzzword in the restaurant industry, with more and more customers demanding eco-friendly practices from favorite establishments.

Sustainability is not just about reducing waste; it’s also about sourcing local ingredients, supporting ethical farming practices, and investing in energy-efficient equipment. Let’s look at some trends we can expect to see in the restaurant industry in 2023.

 

Flexitarianism

Flexitarianism is eating less meat which is the most effective way to reduce carbon footprint. This diet, primarily a plant-based diet with occasional meat consumption, is gaining popularity amongst consumers.

In 2023, we will see a greater emphasis on vegetarian and vegan options.

 

Sustainable Seafood

The restaurant industry has an important role to play in promoting sustainable seafood. By sourcing only seafood deemed sustainable by environmental organizations, restaurants can help prevent the collapse of fish populations in oceans worldwide.

In 2023, more restaurants are expected to commit to serving sustainable seafood and communicating this commitment to their customers.

 

Zero-Waste

Zero-waste has been around for a while, but restaurants have started taking it seriously. Zero-Waste practices include composting and recycling.

In 2023, restaurants can take it further by reducing food waste, such as using vegetables and offering smaller portions for smaller portions.

 

Eco-Friendly Packaging

Another trend in sustainability that’s gaining traction in restaurants is eco-friendly packaging. Many restaurants now offer compostable containers and utensils that are much more eco-friendly than traditional plastic or styrofoam.

Switching to more eco-friendly options can help reduce the amount of waste from your restaurant and show customers that you are committed to sustainability.

Sustainable Sourcing

With consumers becoming more aware of their food choice’s environmental impact, sustainable sourcing is becoming more critical. Restaurants showing that they are sourcing their ingredients ethically and sustainably are more likely to attract customers.

In 2023, we can expect to see more restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms and reducing their carbon footprint by sourcing ingredients that have yet to travel far.

 

Energy Efficiency

Running a restaurant is energy-intensive, with high electricity bills and the constant use of kitchen equipment.

In 2023, we expect more restaurants to invest in energy-efficient equipment, such as low-energy refrigeration units, LED lighting, and cooking appliances. These investments not only reduce carbon emissions but can also save restaurants money on their energy bills.

 

Technology

Technology is changing every aspect of the restaurant industry. In 2023, we can expect to see even more tools and apps that help restaurants track their sustainability practices, reduce food waste, and streamline their operations.

Technology is assisting restaurants to become more efficient and sustainable, from tablet-based ordering systems to AI-powered inventory management.

The restaurant industry constantly evolves, and many consumers consider sustainability a top priority. Restaurants that can show that they are committed to being eco-friendly and sustainable are more likely to attract customers and emerge as leaders in their community.

By understanding and implementing these 2023 sustainability trends, restaurants can stay ahead of the curve and position themselves for long-term success.

Opening a restaurant requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are 12 key tips for launching a successful restaurant:

1. Develop a Concept: The first step in opening a restaurant is to develop a concept. This includes deciding on the type of cuisine, atmosphere, target market, and overall style of the restaurant. The concept should be unique and appealing to potential customers.
2. Create a Business Plan: A business plan is a detailed document outlining the restaurant’s goals, strategies, and financial projections. It should include information on the concept, target market, marketing strategies, menu, staffing plan, and financial projections.
3. Secure Financing: Once the business plan is complete, it’s time to secure financing. This can be done through personal savings, loans, investors, or grants. It’s essential to clearly understand the financial requirements and a solid plan for how the money will be used.
4. Find a Location: Finding the right location is critical to the success of a restaurant, and prime real estate can be expensive. Look for a restaurant that is accessible, visible, and fits your concept and budget. Consider factors such as foot traffic, visibility, parking availability, zoning requirements, and competition in the area.
5. Obtain Licenses and Permits: Restaurants require various licenses and permits, including a business license, food service permit, liquor license, and health permit. The requirements vary by location, so it’s important to research the specific regulations in the area.
6. Design the Space: The restaurant’s design should reflect the concept and create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for customers. This includes selecting colors, furniture, lighting, decor and ambiance.
7. Purchase Equipment and Supplies: The restaurant will need various equipment, including ovens, stoves, refrigerators, and cooking utensils. Your establishment will also need supplies such as plates, glasses, silverware, and linens will also be required.
8. Hire and Train Staff: A restaurant needs a team of skilled workers, including chefs, servers, hosts, bartenders, and management personnel. Provide your team with comprehensive training on your menu, service standards, and policies and procedures. Hiring and training the right staff is critical to the success of a restaurant.
9. Develop a Menu: The menu should reflect the restaurant’s concept and appeal to the target market. It’s essential to consider pricing, portion sizes, and food costs when developing the menu.
10. Market the Restaurant: Effective marketing is essential to attract customers. This includes developing a website, social media presence, and advertising campaigns.
11. Launch the Restaurant: Test your systems and procedures, train your staff, and prepare for the grand opening. Make sure to provide excellent customer service and genuine hospitality.
12. Continually Assess and Adjust: Continually assess and adjust your operations to ensure your restaurant succeeds. This may include updating your menu, adjusting your pricing strategy, and addressing customer concerns.

 

Starting a restaurant requires careful planning, hard work, and ongoing management. Stay focused on your vision, adapt to changes, and continuously improve the quality of your food, service, and atmosphere to build a successful restaurant. By following these steps and being diligent in the planning and execution of the restaurant, owners can increase their chances of success and create a memorable dining experience for their customers.

 

 

By: J. Clyde Gilfillan | Synergy Consultant

1. Business License

A business license is required to open and operate any business in the United States as well as every state.  This is the first step to getting your permits and licenses in order and to register with your state.  The business license establishes your new business as a legal entity and assists in tax filings and corporate structuring.  Every county imposes different requirements and regulations, and failure to comply can have a lot of consequences, including fines, late fees, penalties, and denial of opening/operation. Therefore, it’s essential to identify which licenses and permits you need before opening your doors.

How to Get a Business License:  Do an online search for your state and follow the application procedures laid out on your state government’s site; this is usually the state’s Department of Commerce.   You must also renew your license annually or pay by a specific deadline.  Most licenses are for one year only.

Business License Cost: There is a cost of registration that varies by county in your state.  This fee can range from approximately $50 to several hundred dollars.  The process can be cost- consuming as well.

2. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Like a business license, all businesses must also obtain an employee identification number to operate in the U.S.  Assigned by the Internal Revenue Service; an EIN is assigned to your entity; it is, in essence, your tax ID number.  This process can also be time-consuming as the IRS only issues one EIN per day.

How to Get an Employee Identification Number: You can apply for an EIN through the IRS website or by phone/regular mail.

EIN Cost: Free

3.  Certificate of Occupancy

You will discover there are numerous inspections that need to be done during and after the construction process.  Once your construction is finished and has passed the final building inspection, your city’s local building or zoning department will issue a certificate of occupancy. The certificate of occupancy certifies that the building has been properly constructed and maintained.

How to Get a Certificate of Occupancy: The procedure for obtaining a certificate of occupancy varies widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and on the building’s structure.  However, your General Contractor is usually responsible for this and any/all inspections.

Certificate of Occupancy Cost: Typically $100, but usually included in the cost of your General Contractor.

Note – in some municipalities, you will also need specific permits if you are install replacement equipment, lights, fire suppression, and other fixtures/equipment.  These will come from each municipality, and the method and cost varies.  Your General Contractor should pull these permits before the construction phase.

4.      Food Service License

The city or county health department generally issues food service licenses. The health department will visit your restaurant in person to ensure that you comply with all restaurant food safety regulations. Once this license is obtained, the health department will continue to make regular visits to inspect your restaurant.  If you fail an inspection at any point, you could risk suspension of your food service license and will need to go through rigorous re-inspections to pass and be able to operate again.

How to Get a Food Service License:  You can obtain a food vendor’s license application from your local health department, either online or in person. You can apply for a temporary or mobile food service license as well. When applying, you’ll need the name of your restaurant, an address for a permanent kitchen facility (even for food trucks), and the owner’s personal information. Your food service license may expire automatically in certain locations, so ensure you read and understand all the parameters to renew your license.

Food Service License Cost: The fee can vary by location and number of employees but can range from $100 to $1000.  Some are free.

 

5. Sign Permit

Before you put up any signs to market and/or announce your restaurant, you will need a sign permit from the city government. The specifications for what is acceptable regarding size, location, and lighting vary by city. If you rent or lease the building, you may also be required to get written approval from your landlord in addition to the official sign permit.

How to Get a Sign Permit: Outdoor signs often need to be approved by your local government. In many municipalities, you must hire a licensed contractor to design, install, and permit signage.  Those plans often have to be approved prior to installation.

Sign Permit Cost: A sign permit can cost between $20 and $50.

6.  Music License

If you want to play any music at the restaurant, you’ll need a music license to avoid copyright infringement. This includes live music and music from a CD or streaming service. The fines for playing copyrighted music without a license can range from $1,500 to $30,000. Often this is how musicians get paid in today’s music industry.  To protect your business from these fines, ensure you’ve secured a music license before you host that DJ, hire a band, or have a karaoke night.

How to Get a Music License: You pay The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) or Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) directly on their sites or use a licensed music solution that pays these fees on your behalf, such as Spotify.

Music License Cost: There are numerous factors that go into license pricing.  Rates for restaurants, nightclubs, and bars depend on whether the music is live or recorded, whether it’s audio only or audio-visual, the number of nights per week music is offered, whether admission is charged, and numerous other factors ASCAP or BMI will go over with you.   Background music and/or TV-only sound can cost between $250 and $500.

7.  Building Health Permit

Though not often the case, your building might also have to be inspected for the building health permit if your state requires it, especially if you’re building an establishment from the ground up.  Normally, a restaurant obtains a health permit from the city or county health department when applying for a business license. The location will be subject to periodic health inspections to ensure the location is sanitary.

How to Get a Building Health Permit: Only some states require a building health permit.  Search online using your state and building health permit to see your state’s procedures and policies regarding the building health permit.

Building Health Permit Cost: A building health permit costs depend on your state’s jurisdiction but can be $50 to $1000.

8.    Employee Health Permit

The building needs a health permit; the employees handling food and beverages need one too.   Local authorities usually have specific training resources for employee health and foot protection; Serv-Safe is an example of this. Usually, employees must complete a state-approved food handler’s course and purchase a food handler’s permit. The food handler’s course teaches employees about proper sanitation practices, food storage, and food handling, to avoid spreading food-borne diseases.

How to Get an Employee Health Permit: Again, do an online search for your state and employee health permit to learn more about your state’s specific requirements.

Employee Health Permit Cost: The cost varies from state to state but can be $100 to $500.

9.  Sales Tax License

A sales seller’s permit allows a state to identify a business as a collector of sales tax. Some states may call this permit a “sales tax” permit or license. Most businesses, especially in the food and beverage industry, need to obtain a sales tax license and a resale certificate.

How to Get a Sales Tax License: Register online for a seller’s permit by visiting your local government’s website. Online registration, phone assistance, and in-person assistance are often available.

Sales Tax License Cost: There is no cost to apply for the sales tax license, but you may have to leave a security deposit in the event that the restaurant closes, and you have unpaid taxes. The amount of this deposit will be determined when you apply.

 

 

Additional Permits Your Bar or Restaurant May or May Not Need

Depending on your setup, especially as a bar or nightclub, you may also need to apply for a few extra licenses.  Here are some things that you should keep in mind.

Liquor License

If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, you must apply for a liquor license. In certain states, you may be required to apply for a liquor license and beer and wine licenses. Start this process as early as possible. Depending on the location, it can take months to complete the application process and receive a liquor license from the city government’s liquor control board.

Valet Parking Permit

If you plan on opening a fine dining or full-service restaurant, you may consider offering valet parking to guests. However, in many states, you must apply for a valet parking permit to do so. To apply, you will need to present the state with a detailed plan of the proposed pick-up/drop-off area that shows the number of spaces required as well as a letter of agreement between your chosen valet operator and the restaurant stating financial arrangements, including how and when a guest pays for the service.

Dumpster Placement Permit

Not often considered but often needed, the dumpster placement permit allows your restaurant to situate a state dumpster outside your kitchen, where chefs can dispose of food waste. The stipulations and cost of the dumpster placement permit depend on the size of the dumpster, its exact placement, and the restaurant’s location.

Live Entertainment License

If you plan to host live events in your restaurant or bar, you must apply for a live entertainment license. The licensing authority in your state approves annual entertainment licenses where food or drink is served on the location’s premises. This can apply to a concert, dance, exhibition, cabaret, or public show conducted on your restaurant premises.

Pool Table License

Some states and counties require restaurants and bars to apply for a pool table license to offer a pool table to customers. The applicant will be considered based on location (is there a high amount of pedestrian traffic or parking traffic) and can limit the hours of operation of the pool table and the number of pool tables allowed. It can cost an annual fee of $10 to $15.

More nuanced permits may be required in your area.  We recommend doing diligent research to ensure you are aware if all the  required licenses and permits for your establishment.

 

The success of a restaurant largely depends on its ability to manage its supply chain effectively. With rising food costs, the challenges of sourcing high-quality ingredients, and increased pressure to operate sustainably, optimizing supply chain resources has become more critical than ever for restaurants.

Here are some tips for optimizing supply chain resources for restaurants:

• Streamline the supply chain: The restaurant supply chain can be complex, involving multiple intermediaries such as distributors, wholesalers, and brokers. Streamlining the supply chain by working directly with producers and reducing the number of intermediaries can reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Consolidate orders: Restaurants can consolidate orders to reduce the number of deliveries and minimize transportation costs.
• Forecast demand: Accurately forecasting demand can help restaurants order the right ingredients and reduce waste. By analyzing historical data, monitoring seasonal trends, and considering factors such as weather and local events, restaurants can forecast demand and optimize their inventory levels.
• Optimize inventory levels: Restaurants can optimize inventory levels by implementing inventory management systems that track inventory levels and help to reduce waste.
• Use local suppliers: Sourcing ingredients locally can help to reduce transportation costs and support the local economy. By building relationships with local farmers, fishermen, and other suppliers, restaurants can source high-quality ingredients while minimizing their environmental impact.

• Negotiate prices: Restaurants can negotiate prices with suppliers to get the best possible prices for ingredients and supplies. This can involve negotiating bulk discounts, setting up long-term contracts, and leveraging supplier relationships to secure better pricing.
• Implement sustainability practices: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for restaurants, and implementing sustainable practices can help to reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and build customer loyalty. Practices such as composting, recycling, and using biodegradable packaging can help restaurants to operate sustainably.
• Use technology: Technology can help restaurants to optimize their supply chain by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and automating inventory management. Inventory management software can help restaurants track inventory levels, monitor usage patterns, and streamline ordering processes.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers: Building solid relationships with suppliers can help restaurants secure better pricing, receive priority service, and access new products and opportunities. By communicating regularly with suppliers, providing feedback, and being flexible, restaurants can build long-term relationships that benefit both parties.

 

Optimizing supply chain resources is essential for the success of any restaurant. By streamlining the supply chain, forecasting demand, using local suppliers, negotiating prices, implementing sustainability practices, using technology, and building strong relationships with suppliers, restaurants can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and operate sustainably.

Across the country, Mother’s Day is a time-honored tradition to celebrate that special woman who makes a big difference in our lives. Each year, mothers and their loved ones classically flock to the brunch spots around their area to spend a day celebrating them. This holiday lends a hand easily to restaurants because all mothers want time, space, good food, and a chance to relax. As a restaurant owner, Mother’s Day is an excellent opportunity to get creative and make the day memorable for customers, and super profitable for your business.

 

If it’s specialty foods a family is looking for, try setting a unique pre-fixe menu. Signature foods that your restaurant excels at, wine pairings, and specialty desserts are a great way to go, says Restaurant News. Having a set menu gives customers a way to try out different foods they may not otherwise order, and it gives you a manageable way to serve a fixed list of dishes when the crowds rush in.

 

It’s no myth that restaurants compete on Mother’s Day to drive in traffic. To help entice customers, make your prices fair. You’ll want mothers and their families in your place on Mother’s Day, of course, but long-term thinking is a good tactic, too. You are creating a dining experience that is tasty yet affordable, so they’ll come back to try more.

 

One way to get a mom’s attention is to accommodate her children. It’s the reason we’re celebrating her in the first place! Help moms feel comfortable bringing their small children to your restaurant by setting up kids’ menus, and a small entertainment spot to play while the adults order and chat. Making your customers, all of them, feel welcome will drive business on Mother’s Day and long after, says Restaurant News. ToastTab even suggests giving moms a special discount in exchange for an embarrassing photo or story of their beloved children.

 

Let’s talk about entertainment. While the food is excellent, the prices are fantastic, and the kids are cared for, why not add a little music? Bars and restaurants could attract families by offering live music to their dining experience. If you are a bar owner looking to attract families without children, the answer might be with live music, too, says ToastTab.

 

 

Thinking outside the box this year could be your ticket to gaining new customers, says Buzztime, who suggests that making Mother’s Day a two-day event might do the trick. Offer a drink and food menu the night before, maybe calling it “Mother’s Day Eve.” According to the article, moms will enjoy the extra celebration and the chance to spend a night out. Add a “moms only” drink special, a DJ, or even a mom comedian to make it extra entertaining.

 

Whatever route you take this Mother’s Day at your restaurant, the point is to make moms feel special. Fantastic food, great drinks, fun entertainment, and the feeling of your place as a treat will not only help you on the day but also give families a ton of memories to return to.

Long lines, cut hours, overworked staff, some frustrated customers, and the sense that things can’t run as smoothly as pre-pandemic times are what the restaurant industry has been facing for the past few years. Since the lockdown, restaurants and hospitality services have been scrambling (and getting quite creative) to develop solutions for staff shortages. It may take some work; however, after years of disappearing staff, restaurants may find a little relief this year and in the future.

 

February Jobs Report

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the restaurant industry gained 70,000 employees in February alone, and the predictions are looking sunny, says Restaurant Dive. The employment rate for the food and drink industry is 2.4% below pre-pandemic times, which is even lower than the month before, at 3%, says Nation’s Restaurant News. Although food and drink service employment remains slow-moving, it’s “moving in the right direction,” says the article.

Restaurant Staffing: Still a Challenge

Staffing is still a challenge, reports Nation’s Restaurant News, with 89% of owners saying recruitment and retention is a significant issue, with 62% saying they can’t meet demands with their current number of staff members. Since 2020, an estimated 2.5 million people have died or retired, says the Washington Post, setting off a domino effect for the food industry. Low-wage workers had the opportunity to move into higher-paying and more “professional” positions. The jobs that remained empty, and still are, are the less desirable, low-paying ones. According to the Post, many previous restaurant employees have not returned or have found “better” jobs. They may pay less initially, but the benefits, flexibility, and stability may be better than currently booming jobs like finance, construction, transportation, and warehousing. Labor economists say that the downshift in employment in the service industry has altered the US work market so much, it may shape the industry long term, reported the Post.

In addition to finding good employees this year and moving forward, is the cost of labor. Although nearly all restaurant operators plan on hiring more employees, many think it will be a challenging to balance their expenses. With each year surpassing the last in terms of costs, restaurants’ annual sales have been and will be affected. A specific concern is a weakness in inflation-adjusted sales, says Restaurant Dive. The cost of food and increased menu prices are predicted to drive sales growth in 2023, with food and drink sales minimally surpassing pre-pandemic levels because of inflation. With food and labor costs, restaurants’ bottom lines are continuously evaluated.

In the world of new norms, our restaurant experience has changed quite a bit for owners, operators, staff, and customers alike. After the reflective time during lockdown, the values, pay, flexibility, and work quality demanded by employees have taken shape. They are now beginning to shift the way our job market functions. Although predictions look optimistic, albeit slow-moving, the restaurant industry is still playing catch-up or changing the game to move along with the trends.

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