Creating great restaurants takes attention, effort and time. Are you a restaurant owner? How about a hotel owner with an onsite restaurant? Or maybe just someone with a restaurant dream? Need some great advice or unique ideas?
If you are early on in the process, don’t be afraid to take customer and employee feedback about the menu or decor and remember the importance of finding a great location. Always keep an eye your finances and consider adjusting portion sizes (within reason) and purchasing items in bulk.
Sanitation is important for restaurants in all phases of life. Kitchen and especially prep areas must always be clean. Make sure the trash is regularly disposed of. Be sure your staff is education on Health Department Guidelines.
Have you considered outdoor dining? If yes, try and extend the patio season, opening earlier in spring and staying open later in the fall, with space heaters or even rustic fire pits. Have you considered offering a gluten free beer? Many people are looking for this alternative due to health and diet trends. Speaking of beer, try adding some beer inspired appetizers or entrees to your menu. Cooking with beer is a fun and current trend. Thinking about starting a food truck? Consider some of the bonuses – free advertising, a place to try out new menu items – with the difficulties – added expenses, and keeping up with a new set of codes and laws. Many restaurants are adding to-go options, but make sure you are using the best technologies available to ensure great service for everyone!