We know that seasonal menus aren’t just an operational decision – they’re a serious marketing advantage. Aside from the obvious reasons (for example – the fact that the weather is forcing your hand), regularly changing your menu gives you a reason to re-engage your database, grab the attention of new customers and make sure your regulars don’t get bored. Here’s a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1. Adjust to the weather
It’s crucial to adjust your menu to suit the weather, because what works in summer may not work in cooler months. As we creep closer to winter, your crisp salads will be overlooked as your customers search for broths and stews to warm their tummies. Tune into popular seasonal food trends to make the most of your new menu.
Tip 2. Work with the season’s produce, not against it
The change in weather means different seasons bear different produce – so matter how much your heart desires a mango dish on your autumn menu, it just won’t be possible (sorry!). The key is to work with what you’ve got during these transitional seasons – autumn and spring. But keep in mind that the fruits and veggies available at the beginning of March might not be around come late May. It’s a tricky balancing act.
Tip 3. Use it to gauge your customer’s tastes
Changing your menu will allow you to gauge your customers’ tastes and discover their current likes and dislikes. Invite locals to try a few of your chef’s whacky experiments before adding them to the menu. You never know, you may earn a few brownie points and gain a few returning customers!
Tip 4. Keep a few signature dishes
While changing the menu will pique the curiosity of potential diners and give some regulars the nudge they needed to try new things, completely killing off anything familiar will scare others away. Be sparing with the red pen, and keep a few favourites on the menu for the regulars with a “usual.”
As a hospitality marketing company in Brisbane, we love a good menu refresh. If you’ve got plans for a new menu and need a hand designing it to be restaurant-ready (or to get the word out there if it’s super special), then contact us on hello@liquiditymarketing.com.au – we can’t wait to try it!