For restaurant owners, summer is an exciting time of the year. With the beautiful weather and more leisurely days, customers tend to be more willing to dine out. That said, it's also important for restaurant owners to stay ahead of the trends to make the most of this season. Here are some summer trends that you should keep in mind.
Locally Sourced Foods - As people become increasingly aware of how their food is sourced, many restaurants have started taking advantage of local farms or micro-farms for ingredients. This helps them serve fresher dishes and reduce their carbon footprint.
Take Advantage Of Outdoor Seating - Customers love dining al fresco in the summertime, so make sure to take advantage of any outdoor seating areas you have access to. If possible, set up a patio or deck that's comfortable and inviting for guests to relax on warm days.
Focus On Convenience - With the season's shorter days and longer nights, customers may be looking for ways to save time and make their dining experience as convenient as possible. Consider offering delivery options or even curbside pickup so that customers can enjoy your food without having to enter the restaurant.
Showcase Seasonal Ingredients - Summer brings with it a host of delicious ingredients to work with, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Take advantage of the abundance of seasonal produce by creating unique dishes that highlight these ingredients.
Capitalize On Special Occasions - Another great way to attract diners is to capitalize on popular events or holidays during the summer months. Consider adding menu items for the Fourth of July or even local events like music festivals or farmers markets—it could be just the boost your business needs.
Offering Plant-Based Options - As the world becomes more health-conscious, plant-based foods are quickly becoming a must-have item on menus. Offering vegan and vegetarian dishes will attract a larger customer base and help boost your restaurant's success.
Revamping Your Menu - With summer comes a bounty of fresh produce and ingredients to choose from, so take this opportunity to update your menu with seasonal specialties. Consider adding lighter fare and unique dishes to give customers something new to try.
Run Special Offers - Summer is the perfect time to host special promotions, discounts, or events that draw in customers. Consider offering guests a loyalty program, happy hour specials, or even an outdoor movie night.
Focus On Presentation - Serve up dishes with an eye-catching presentation to tantalize taste buds and encourage return visits from customers who post photos of their meals online. Using colorful garnishes or unique plates can add visual appeal to any dish.
Since 2005, Quikstone Capital has been a trusted funding partner for thousands of restaurants.
If you need cash to get your restaurant ready for summer with a deck or patio, new equipment, or a fresh remodel, Quikstone can help. Quikstone's merchant cash advance is not a loan, and it doesn't take weeks for approval. If you accept credit cards, the process is fast and easy. There's a simple one-page application, no collateral is needed, and you could qualify for up to $250,000. From approval to funding takes just 2-5 business days. Contact us today to be prequalified – there is no cost or obligation.
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