While it may seem like spring has just arrived, our busiest season is just around the corner, and the time has come to prepare. For many restaurants, summer is the period that defines their success. So, when do you start hiring, upgrading the patio, and creating your summer beverage and food offerings? Now.
Expected Summer Menu Trends
So, what food is destined to trend in social media land this summer? Of course, not every social media trend aligns with your brand. Be choosy and select the items that resonate and may provide an Instagrammable moment.
Health and wellness are still center stage, and summer is the best time to showcase your establishment’s commitment to giving your guests healthy options. Consider fresh, local ingredients. Herbs like basil, dill, rosemary, and cilantro enhance summer dishes while providing a delicious source of vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
With the sun comes grilling season. Setting one up outside, if there’s available space, sends an incredible aroma through the air, calling in customers from the streets. Don’t forget the vegetable enthusiasts by adding grilled mushrooms, corn, eggplants, peppers, and mangoes.
Many people have summer memories and an emotional connection to watermelon, representing friends and family get-togethers. These nostalgic connections are always good to tap into, and part of the reason comfort food will probably always be “trending.” As summer nears, we’re sure to see watermelon feta salad hitting the menus.
Guests also appreciate the addition of other summer fruits in the guise of desserts, from peach cobblers to blueberry pie and strawberry lavender panna cotta.
Shawarma, a popular street food in the Middle East, has become a customer favorite in the summer and beyond. Marinated meat is cooked slowly on a spit, placed in a pita, and topped with various vegetables and sauces. People are creating their own versions around the world and sharing them on TikTok and Instagram. Is it time to share yours? Poke bowls are also a summertime favorite.
Pistachio is having its moment after the Dubai chocolate bar with a creamy pistachio filling went viral on TikTok. Now, you can see it everywhere, including beverages, desserts, and savory dishes like pesto. And it looks like it will be here to stay through the summer.
Beverage Program
And what about summer beverages? While refreshing classics like mojitos are a mainstay, “swicy” was in last summer. A blend of spicy and sweet, think jalapeno agave and honey. And, of course, pistachios have nudged their way into the beverage lineup with pistachio martinis.
Tequila and mezcal are experiencing explosive growth, and variations on the Paloma and Margarita will be everywhere. Tropical fruit, like guava, will also be added to the mix. Pistachios are even finding their way into these beverages, although I have no idea how.
Multisensory, immersive drink experiences are in. This experience may involve pairing drinks with soundscapes and visuals like tropical beverages with nature’s ocean sounds. Room for a fish tank? Perfect.
Tried-and-true flavor profiles with unique spins appeal to the experiential crowd. Fraise Sauvage, a beverage combining gin, Prosecco, strawberries, Tahitian vanilla, or some combination thereof, is also entering the summer beverage lineup. And, of course, the Aperol spritz and Hugo spritz are here to stay.
Do you have the space for an outdoor happy hour? As the days get longer, people are looking for a place to watch the sunset with a cold drink in hand and the promise of delicious and unique appetizers and entrees.
Back to Nature
More people than ever are extending their homes, creating outdoor sanctuaries. And the same is true for restaurants. Optimizing outdoor dining is the key to a successful summer season, whether a sidewalk café, a garden, or a rooftop patio. What do you need to do it right? Beautiful lights, plants, and outdoor heaters. And an exclusive happy hour just for patio diners doesn’t hurt, either. This sense of distinction starts the “Do you have a table on the patio?” question rolling.
For those in warmer climates, pergola-covered seating offers the needed shade. Add vine-wrapped beams and string lights, and you have an inviting space. Pathway lights provide beauty, safety, and security. With today’s advanced LED lights, you reduce energy usage and can give your guests a warm, cozy glow. Incorporate nature’s elements and add intrigue with small waterfalls and a fire feature.
And, not to panic you, but Mother’s Day is 18 days away. Enjoy the season!
