10 Ideas Worth Stealing from FARE
Here are some of the ideas, trends and smart strategies we heard that could help all foodservice operators, regardless of their channel.
Consumer Trends
Smoke signals flavor
Industry research has put the spotlight on smoking, calling it out as a superstar preparation technique. It’s not smoke and mirrors—as it has for thousands of years, smoking continues to be a go-to method to enhance the natural flavors of a variety of foods.
Among the items listed within CNN’s American Food: The 50 Greatest Dishes, the American comfort food landscape is spelled out in popular food items, ranging from a full Thanksgiving dinner to a side of tater tots; from Delmonico’s Steak to California Roll; from Chicago-Style Pizza to Barbecue Ribs; and everything in between. It is obvious reading through this list that although health is on the mind of consumers everywhere, comfort is still king.
It seems breakfast can be the most important meal of the day—especially for restaurants. A recent Technomic MarketBriefing revealed that nearly 9 out of 10 consumers surveyed eat brunch at a restaurant at least occasionally. What’s more, Mintel predicts breakfast sales will increase 22.1 percent between now and 2017.
"Bold" is becoming a boring mantra on menus; flavor-craving customers want more. To tempt their taste buds—and wallets—chefs and menu developers across all segments are experimenting with flavor enhancing cooking techniques, layering flavors for maximum effect and punching up dishes with housemade condiments.