When diners are deciding between ordering from your restaurant or another down the street, there’s one factor that’s often the most important: the menu. A creative and interesting menu full of fan favorites and a rotating selection of new creations is a surefire way to keep diners coming back.
Should Your Restaurant Have a Rotating Menu?
Your menu is your restaurant’s greatest marketing asset. Without delicious selections to choose from, there will be no reason for guests to return to your restaurant. Plus, most restaurant menus are now available for online viewing. Your menu can be the deciding factor on whether or not guests come to your restaurant in the first place. Above all, a rotating menu can be a great way to not only attract new customers but to keep them coming back over and over.
What is a Rotating Menu?
The concept of a rotating menu is a simple one. A rotating menu is a selection of items that your restaurant offers–in addition to tried-and-true favorites–that vary (usually) on a seasonal basis. Rotating menus keep guests coming back to try new and interesting dishes. They also keep your chefs feeling inspired!
Rotating Menus = Returning Guests
Using your social media and advertising to make guests aware of your new menu offerings is a great way to get their attention. When advertising your rotating menu, make sure to mention that the offerings are limited-time only! Emphasize that options will change with the seasons. This will inspire a sense of urgency in guests who will want to come in and sample the new goods before they’re gone. They’ll also be looking forward to what items you’ll add next.
Rotating Menus are Fun for Chefs and Customers Alike
We’ve already covered the fact that rotating menus are a great way to draw in guests, but what about your staff? Your chefs and other kitchen employees will enjoy a creative break from their usual cooking routines. Plus, having new ingredients on hand can inspire creativity. This could even lead to the creation of new, interesting dishes to add to your menu!
What Items Should a Rotating Menu Have?
One of the biggest advantages of a rotating menu is that it allows you to support local farmers and growers. Crafting up delicious dishes that use in-season fruits and veggies is sustainable and saves your business money. It also gives back to the community that your restaurant calls home!
Seasonal Dishes
Another advantage of seasonal menu rotations is that they allow you to cater to taste trends. Your offerings during the warmer months and during the holiday season can be distinctly different from one another without trouble. Since you’re only offering a limited number of rotating items and not steadily growing your menu, you can test out new flavors. Who knows–maybe some fan favorites will even make their way onto your everyday menu!
All in all, rotating menus are a fantastic way to draw in new guests and keep your kitchen staff feeling innovative and inspired–why not give it a go?
