The dog days of summer have arrived! As children around the nation are beginning their summer vacations, their families can be found using the much-needed time off in amusement parks, on the beach, and anywhere outside that may bring joy. With many people taking off work, it would be shocking for some to find out that it is one of the quietest times of the year for the restaurant scene, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Here are a handful of tips to help get those large crowds into your restaurants.
Get Creative with Your Entrees
As we’ve spoken about before, the summer months call for summer-inspired foods. If there are some dishes you can market as grilled, put them in a prime position on your menu. Set up the barbecue in a spot where people can smell it. Kid-friendly options will be important for families this time of year, so have a hot dog and chicken finger plate ready to go. Don’t forget to offer delicious side items, like elote or this grilled corn with queso and cilantro made from our fresh corn from Markon.
Chill Down Those Beverages
There is nothing quite like a cold beverage during the hot summer season. With that in mind, consider a few beverages people think of this time of year. Drinks with citrus can be refreshing on a hot afternoon, like lemonade for the kids, or a soda with lime. For the parents, make a margarita made with fresh ingredients, like this one made with Markon’s fresh margarita mix!
Don’t Forget Dessert
Everyone can think of a dessert they enjoy during the summer! From a frosty popsicle to a nice slice of decadent cheesecake, to an apple pie at a BBQ. But of course, make sure you have the number one selling dessert, ice cream, from our Keith Valley & Ellington Farms line as a nice cold treat.
Market Your Store
This time of year, it’s important to promote your brand for summer-related activities. Post on your social media or website about kid-friendly activities going on at your store. Tie in some dishes to national food-related holidays like National Hamburger Day (July 28th)*, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day (Aug. 2nd)*, or Labor Day Weekend. Include content on beating the heat in your A/C or enjoying a nice night on your patio. If you need ideas for promoting your establishment, our HOST services are here to help you take your content to the next level. *Foodimentary - National Food Holidays
It can be a difficult time to get families away from outdoor activities and into your restaurant. However, establishing your restaurant as a summer-friendly place can help get more customers at tables this time of year. For more ideas on how to optimize your restaurant, be sure to reach out to BEK’s Culinary Resource Team or your Sales Representative.