We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
As the jingle bells begin to ring and the festive season draws near, it's time for restaurateurs to get into the holiday spirit. Christmas offers a golden opportunity to attract diners eager for festive fare and memorable dining experiences.
The heart of your Christmas appeal lies in your menu. Consider incorporating classic holiday dishes with a twist to entice new and returning customers. Think rich, comforting flavours that evoke the warmth of the season—perhaps a spiced roasted duck, crab dip or a decadent truffle mac and cheese, Don’t forget about the sweet treats; revamp your dessert menu with limited time items and promote them as such creating a sense of urgency and fear of missing out. Explore pairing options with seasonal cocktails or mocktails to offer a complete holiday dining experience.
Have you evaluated your marketing strategy recently? With most dining decisions being made spontaneously, it's critical to ensure your restaurant is top of mind. Conduct an audit to assess your current approach and identify areas for improvement. Are you utilizing social media effectively? Now is the perfect time to engage with your audience through festive posts, behind-the-scenes glimpses of holiday preparations, and mouth-watering images of your seasonal dishes (you can purchase small, compact photo studios at many online retailers, many offer lighting taking your photos to the next level) . Consider boosting posts or running targeted ads to reach a wider audience and ensure your restaurant ends up in potential customers' feeds.
The spontaneity of dining decisions, particularly during the bustling holiday period, means you must be visible and appealing to impromptu diners. Optimize your online presence by ensuring your restaurant's location, hours, and menu are up to date across all platforms. Engage with your audience through real-time posts and stories, offering last-minute specials or updates on table availability. This immediacy can make your restaurant an attractive option for those last-minute plans.
Holiday decor plays a significant role in creating an inviting and festive atmosphere. Aim for a tasteful blend of traditional and modern decorations that reflect your restaurant’s unique personality. Twinkling lights, seasonal wreaths, and elegant table settings can transform your space into a winter wonderland.
To truly stand out, consider offering unique experiences alongside your dining options. Live music, themed nights, or even a visit from Santa for family-friendly establishments can add a special touch to your holiday offerings. Collaborations with local artisans for pop-up events or holiday markets can also draw crowds and create a buzz around your venue.
A well-thought-out plan will ensure your restaurant not only survives but thrives. In addition to your own planning efforts, remember that your Flanagan sales representative is ready and eager to assist you in crafting the perfect experience for your guests. With their wealth of expertise and resources, they can offer invaluable advice on menu selections and marketing strategies tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your festive offerings or seeking new ways to engage with your audience, the Flanagan team is here to support you every step of the way.
As the days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder, chances are you are reaching for more coffee than usual. Maybe you’ve been going for that second or third cup hoping it will help, but what if instead of another coffee you tried an energy drink? If you read that and thought, ‘No way, there is way too much caffeine!’, read on.
First, it is helpful to know that energy drinks in Canada are now regulated under a new category in the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) known as Supplemented foods (SFs). These are foods and drinks that contain 1 or more supplemented ingredients such as caffeine, vitamins, minerals, amino acids or other ingredients but are not added for the purpose of fortification.[1] These products will be required to display a front of pack label from Health Canada with the words ‘Supplemented’ and they will have a ‘Supplemented food facts table’ instead of a ‘Nutrition facts table’. This is a great step as now the quantity of caffeine in an energy drink will be displayed in this table, making it very easy to identify the amount.
Why is this important? Because the caffeine content of energy drinks can range. For example, a 250 ml Red Bull contains 80 mg of caffeine whereas other typical 473 ml energy drinks like Ghost or Bang may contain up to 180 mg. Note, that bottled coffee and tea beverages do not have to display their caffeine content, so you may need to check with the manufacturer to understand caffeine content of those beverages.
Health Canada along with other regulatory bodies like the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommend a daily caffeine intake of 400 mg for healthy adults over 18 years old (excluding those who are pregnant or breastfeeding).[2]
The caffeine levels in a coffee or tea can vary greatly depending on the beans (or leaves), the brewing method, and the brewing time. This means that each coffee you have will provide a varying dose of caffeine. This may not be a big deal with your first cup of the day, but as you reach for those second and third cups, this variability can add up. Whereas, because an energy drink is usually made with synthetic, pharmaceutical grade caffeine you will be provided with a consistent, reliable dose which is something that gets more important as the day goes on.
To give you a rough idea of the caffeine contents of a typical coffee, a small 237 ml brewed coffee contains on average 135 mg of caffeine and a small 237 ml filter drip coffee contains an average of 179 mg of caffeine.[3]
If you’re feeling the effects from the darker days and looking for some caffeine to get you through the workday, consider an energy drink instead of that second cup of coffee to provide you with a consistent amount of caffeine.
In the current economic climate, restaurant operators need to employ creative strategies to attract guests while providing outstanding value. Diners are more discerning with their spending, seeking experiences that offer both enjoyment and affordability. Here are some savvy strategies to create value-driven promotions that can help draw guests in and keep them coming back.
A well-designed loyalty program can be a significant draw for repeat customers. Implement a system where guests earn points for each visit or spend, which can be redeemed for discounts, free meals, or exclusive offers. It can be as simple as a buy one, get one for their next visit with an appetizer or dessert item. This not only encourages repeat business but also fosters a sense of appreciation and connection with your restaurant.
Many big chains have embraced the concept of a value menu for a reason—it effectively caters to budget-conscious diners. Even in tighter times, people love dining out, but they seek more bang for their buck. Consider reviewing your menu to find opportunities for a value menu, perhaps by offering a smaller version of a popular sandwich or wrap that keeps your customers happy without breaking the bank.
Bundle deals offer a complete dining experience at a reduced price, providing perceived value to guests. Consider creating bundle options that include an appetizer, main course, and dessert, or offer a family-style meal kit that customers can enjoy at home. You could start with something straightforward like a soup and sandwich combo or offer a more sophisticated option where guests pick from a selection of three appetizers and three main courses for a fixed price. Just ensure that each appetizer and entrée is priced similarly in terms of food cost to maintain balance. This approach not only draws in deal-hunters but also highlights the diverse offerings on your menu.
Hosting themed nights can create excitement and draw in crowds. Consider offering a "Taco Tuesday" with discounted tacos or a "Wine and Dine Wednesday" featuring a special wine pairing menu for people going out on a date. Don’t forget to promote your theme, for example use a photo of a couple enjoying a night at your restaurant, creating a moment in time can capture people’s attention on social media when they are scrolling (bonus: most mealtime decisions are made the day of so make sure you regularly post).
Partnering with local businesses can elevate your promotions and widen your audience. Consider teaming up with nearby breweries for a beer-tasting event or collaborating with themed attractions like escape rooms to offer a combined package where guests enjoy the escape room experience followed by a dinner at your restaurant.
Create urgency and excitement with flash sales or limited time offers. Announce these promotions on social media or through email newsletters to generate buzz and drive immediate traffic. Whether it's a weekend brunch special or a weekday dinner discount, these offers can fill seats during slower periods.
Tailoring promotions to meet the specific needs and preferences of your customer base is crucial. Use surveys or feedback forms to gather insights into what your guests value most. Whether it's healthier menu options, kid-friendly meals, or special dietary accommodations, understanding these preferences allows you to customize promotions that resonate with your audience.
Focusing on customer needs, getting creative with your deals, and engaging with the community can lead to increased patronage and loyalty. Embrace these strategies to ensure your restaurant remains a top choice for diners seeking both value and quality.
The arrival of fall brings a fresh palette of flavours and seasonal ingredients. With the changing leaves and cooler temperatures, diners are on the lookout for comforting, seasonal dishes that capture the essence of autumn. Introducing a fall menu not only keeps your offerings fresh and exciting but also aligns your restaurant with the seasonal cravings of your patrons.
By incorporating autumnal ingredients such as squash, apples, and spices, you can create dishes that resonate with the warmth and coziness synonymous with this time of year. Whether you run a fine dining establishment or a cozy café, the fall season is a prime opportunity to revamp your menu and entice both new and returning customers.
A fall menu is more than just a seasonal change; it's an opportunity to create buzz and draw in curious diners. Highlighting the unique flavours of autumn can set your restaurant apart and make it a destination for those seeking seasonal delights.
Focus on seasonal ingredients that are at their peak during the fall. Consider dishes like butternut squash soup, apple cider-glazed pork, and roasted root vegetables, which showcase the bounty of the season.
Secondly, storytelling can be a powerful tool. Share the inspiration behind your fall menu through social media, newsletters, or on your restaurant's website. Whether it’s a family recipe, a tribute to local farmers, or a personal culinary adventure, letting your customers in on the story adds a layer of connection and intrigue. Lastly, consider hosting a fall menu launch event. Invite local food bloggers and loyal customers to sample your new dishes, creating word-of-mouth excitement that can drive more traffic to your restaurant.
No discussion of fall menus is complete without mentioning the iconic pumpkin spice. This beloved flavour, with its blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, has become synonymous with fall.
Pumpkin spice can be more versatile than you might think. Beyond the classic pumpkin spice latte, consider using this flavour profile in desserts like pumpkin spice cheesecake or muffins. It can also be creatively integrated into savoury dishes, such as a pumpkin spice-infused marinade for poultry or as a seasoning for roasted nuts featured in a salad.
Remember, the key is balance. While pumpkin spice is wildly popular, ensure it complements your overall menu and doesn't overshadow other fall favourites. By offering a diverse selection of fall flavours, you can cater to a broader audience and avoid the pitfalls of a one-note menu.
Limited time offers (LTOs) are a powerful strategy for driving interest and urgency in your restaurant. By presenting exclusive dishes for a short duration, you create a sense of scarcity that encourages customers to act quickly. They can also help you identify trends and preferences within your customer base. By analyzing sales data from LTOs, you can gain valuable insights into what concepts resonate most with your audience. This information is invaluable for shaping future menu decisions and ensuring your restaurant stays relevant in a competitive market.
Think outside the box with your LTOs. While fall staples like pumpkin and apple are always a hit, consider introducing unconventional ingredients or international flavours that align with autumn. For example, a Moroccan-inspired lamb tagine with apricots and almonds or a Japanese kabocha squash tempura can offer a unique twist on fall dining.
Engage your customers by involving them in the creation process. Host a contest where patrons can submit their fall-inspired dish ideas, with the winning entry making it onto your menu as a limited time offer. This not only sparks creativity but also fosters a sense of community and involvement. Additionally, promote your LTOs through social media teasers and email campaigns, highlighting the limited availability to entice diners to visit before the opportunity slips away.
View the fall issue of The Dish
We've collaborated with the team at Saporito Foods to help you elevate your cooking, frying, and baking techniques. In this post, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks on how to effectively use and maintain these products in your kitchen.
Liquid Fry Shortening 16L Pail (Product number: 460145)
Specially Designed for Deep Frying: This product is produced without partially hydrogenated oils, making it perfect for deep frying. It maintains stability at high temperatures, ensuring your fried foods come out crispy and delicious.
Usage Tip: Ideal for commercial deep fryers. Regularly filter the oil to extend its life and maintain food quality.
Canola Oil 16L Pail (Product number: 448271)
Low Saturated Fat Content: Canola oil contains the lowest level of saturated fatty acids among vegetable oils, making it a healthier option for various cooking methods.
Usage Tip: Perfect for sautéing, stir-frying, baking, and as a base for salad dressings. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its quality.
Soya Margarine Yellow 13kg (Product number: 210341)
Great Flavour and Smooth Texture: Made from a blend of non-hydrogenated soya and vegetable oils, this margarine offers a cost-competitive formula without compromising on taste and texture.
Usage Tip: Excellent for baking and spreading. Ensure it is kept refrigerated to maintain its consistency and flavour.
Total Beef® Deep Fry Shortening 20kg (Product number: 460257)
Non-Hydrogenated Frying Shortening: Ideal for deep-frying French fries, poultry, and finger foods. This product ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Usage Tip: Regularly monitor the temperature of your fryer to avoid overheating, which can break down the shortening and affect the taste of your food.
1. Regular Filtration: For oils used in deep frying, it's crucial to filter the oil daily. This removes food particles and extends the oil's usability.
2. Proper Storage: Always store oils and shortenings in a cool, dark place to prevent them from going rancid. Margarine should be kept refrigerated.
3. Monitoring Usage: Keep track of how many times you've used the oil. As a general rule, replace frying oil after 8-10 uses or when it starts to smoke at lower temperatures than usual.
4. Temperature Control: Maintain proper frying temperatures (typically around 350°F to 375°F). Overheating can degrade the oil faster and affect the quality of your food.
Saporito Foods is your trusted supplier for healthy, trans fat-free, premium quality oils, shortenings, and margarines. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of competitively priced, high-quality products, including canola oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, vegetable oil, blended oils, shortenings, and margarines suitable for both retail and food service markets. Whether you are cooking, frying, or baking, we have the right product to meet your needs.
For more information and to explore our full product range, visit www.saporitofoods.com.
Canadian and Family Owned