SUMMERTIME FOODSERVICE MEGHAN PADGETT - BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - EXCLUSIVE BRANDS
Summertime in foodservice can be a mixed bag. Some restaurants can capitalize on sales due to being in a travel destination. Some do well by tying into local festivals and outdoor events. Many will draw increased foot traffic due to offering outdoor dining. Unfortunately, the majority will suffer a slowdown due to their regulars going on vacation. This is why it is important to develop a marketing game-plan. A way to capitalize on dining during the summer is to give customers a reason to dine with you. Summertime is a great time to roll-out a new menu. You can also host tasting events and sponsor charity fundraisers. Promote your loyalty rewards programs by running special incentives or promotions. Social media is also a great outlet for promotional opportunities. You can celebrate the summer holidays with special menus, boxed carryout specials, or prepackaged family picnics. Summer is also a great time to market local produce. Create fresh dishes based on what is available. This is a great time to show your team’s creative flair. Summer guests are often more open to new food experiences. When you create a dish, post pictures on social media. Encourage customers to share their experiences. This creates a wonderful media buzz.
16
THE PERFORMANCE TABLE
Blueberry Grilled Cheese INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons butter • 2 slices thick sandwich bread • 1/2 cup blueberries • 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed • Drizzle of honey DIRECTIONS 1. Butter both sides of sandwich bread and place on a warmed cast iron skillet or griddle (or similar). Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned, and then flip each slice. 2. Place brie cheese and blueberries on one piece of bread (the cooked side).Drizzle with honey. 3. Place the other piece of bread on top of blueberries. Cook until cheese is melted and both sides of sandwich are lightly browned, flipping as necessary.
Recommended Ttems
PFS ITEM #157189 BUTTER SOLIDS UNSALTED AA PFS ITEM #254036 BREAD WHITE THICK HIGH CROWN PFS ITEM #23104 BLUEBERRIES PFS ITEM #516407 CHEESE BRIE 60% WHEEL PFS ITEM #273152 HONEY CLOVER JUG
