Tailgating is a time-honored tradition, and one that’s quite profitable—food and beverage sales soar into the billions of dollars, according to the Tailgating Industry Association. Restaurant operators hoping to harness some of those dollars have a big opportunity—while many consumers purchase food to grill on their own for tailgating events, many others opt to watch the game at their favorite local bar or restaurant. By offering traditional tailgating-style dishes, as well as unique special offers, restaurants can appeal to sports fans and beyond.
Exciting, craveable comfort foods—and ones with a twist—are the perfect way to boost menu appeal, and not just during sports games.
According to Technomic’s recent Flavor Consumer Trend Report, 42% of consumers agree that they are more likely to try a new or unique flavor when they’re at a restaurant versus when they’re cooking at home—great news for operators looking to innovate. And when mapping out a tailgating-inspired menu, restaurants should include a mix of familiar favorites as well as new, signature options. Technomic’s Flavor report finds that consumers’ top-craved flavors are cheesy, savory, spicy, sweet and buttery—so it's wise to incorporate indulgent and delicious ingredients when crafting specials.
Need some inspiration? CHEF-MATE has everything operators need to create craveable, delicious menu items for tailgating—or all day long. For instance, CHEF-MATE Chili Con Carne with Beans and CHEF-MATE Que Bueno White Queso can be used to create traditional items as well as unique offerings, such as:
- Philly CheesesteakQuesadilla: Diced steak, cooked with chopped red pepper, onion, mushrooms, garlic and black pepper, is stacked on a tortilla that’s been smothered with CHEF-MATE Que Bueno White Queso Sauce, then topped with provolone cheese.
- SouthwesternEgg Rolls: Tasty, Southwestern-style egg rolls are stuffed with cooked chicken, black beans, onion, jalapeno, red bell pepper, avocado and CHEF-MATE Que Bueno White Queso Sauce.
- WalkingTacos: A fun twist on a familiar favorite, corn chips are topped with CHEF-MATE Chili Con Carne with Beans, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, pickled jalapenos and red onions.
Creating a tailgating-inspired menu doesn’t have to be difficult or labor intensive. With CHEF-MATE, operators can craft delicious dishes diners come back for again and again in minutes. To learn more, click here.
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