Smart Selling

Tips for menu layout, signature dishes and different flavours Here are some easily implemented tips that will improve margin and drive volume.

Menu Layout

Your menu is a fantastic marketing tool and a way to tempt guests to choose certain dishes on your menu. Your average guest spends just 3.5 minutes viewing a menu before making a decision. List your most profitable dishes in the first half of your menu with 8 to 10 items in each category. More options can slow down their ordering.

Menu Descriptions

Your guests need to be impressed by your menu and be convinced of its value. Descriptions should appeal to the five senses (taste, sight, touch, smell, sound) and name the "best" ingredients.

Signature Dishes

A signature dish does not have to be your most expensive item, it can be a low price dish with WOW factor that has a halo effect over your whole menu. The dish is what you are famous for. Own the dish. It should be a dish that guests only experience at your restaurant.

Amazing Flavours

Guests want robust flavours. Any successful menu has to get the fundamentals right. Marinating meats and vegetables overnight can boost flavour and colour. Use flavour combinations that are hard for your guests to recreate at home.

Intriguing Ingredients

Grab attention by using some unusual ingredients. This will tempt the more adventurous guest and be talking point on the menu. Offer the option to pay extra for a premium ingredient in some dishes.

Perfect Presentation

Paying great attention to presentation will maximise the appeal and margin for every dish. Sauces drizzled over the plate using a squeeze bottle creates a premium image instantly.

Super Sides

Give guests the option of several side dishes to increase choice and boost revenue. Exciting side salads and vegetable dishes with variety of dressings and garnishes work well.

Classic Techniques

Offer your guests menu choices that are not easy to recreate at home. Using more cost effective ingredients can compensate for the time and skill required.

Well Informed Staff

All staff should know which are your most profitable dishes. Encourage them to recommend the dishes when appropriate.    

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is merely suggestive and based on chef experiences. Nothing on this page is providing any assurance regarding an increase in sales, demands, profits or any other aspect whatsoever. Results arising from implementing the suggestions may vary and the website owner shall not be held liable.