Seafood specials on menus are nothing new—but seafood LTOs (limited-time offers) can be just what’s needed to boost customer interest in fish and seafood options. What’s more, there’s great opportunity in offering them. For instance, Technomic’s 2019 Center of the Plate: Seafood & Vegetarian Consumer Trend Report found that top-rated LTOs recently have included dishes such as Pub-Style Fish & Chips and spicy Dragon Shrimp. What’s more, about 1 in 5 consumers say they’re eating more seafood now than they were two years ago. Increased interest in seafood dishes, combined with consumers’ perpetual desire to try new flavors and dishes, means that seafood LTOs are especially positioned for success.
Some seafood options are easier to offer as LTOs than others, however. Chopped clams, for example, give operators the chance to offer craveable seafood options without adding a lot of labor to the back of house—something that’s especially crucial in today’s current restaurant climate. Here are a few ideas for LTO inspiration that feature delicious clams:
- Thai Basil Clams: Technomic’s report found that 37% of consumers would like restaurants to offer more ethnic seafood dishes. This Asian-inspired dish combines flavorful basil with clams, garlic, green onions and chili peppers. These clams are perfect served over rice or rice noodles for an authentic flair.
- Zuppa di Vongole: For the 33% of consumers who say they choose seafood over meat options because it’s healthier, this dish is a sure winner. Featuring ingredients popular in the Mediterranean diet, such as tomatoes, olive oil, escarole and clams, this soup offers diners the healthy options they’re looking for without skimping on big flavors.
- Clam chili: A classic favorite with a seafood twist, clam chili offers a hearty meal made with traditional spices and bold ingredients, with added interest from chopped clams—a dish seafood lovers will come back for.
This post is sponsored by Sea Watch