Guests are no longer satisfied with mediocre dining options at hotels. Today’s travelers crave unique and memorable culinary experiences. A robust F&B program can positively impact revenue in a significant way, driving repeat stays and attracting local guests. Distinctive dining options can set your hotel apart, making it a destination in itself. So, spice things up and turn your hotel into the talk of the town—because nobody checks out early when there’s dessert!

Authentic Sustainability

Sustainability has evolved beyond a mere trend to become a critical commitment for modern hoteliers. Move beyond housekeeping practices to incorporate sustainability in your F&B department and create positive customer-facing initiatives. This usually involves going local, which in turn costs less and supports the local economy, so it’s a win-win. 

Ideas:

• Go Plant-based: There’s an increased interest in veganism or at least cutting down on meat consumption. Get creative and showcase enticing animal-free dishes that highlight mushrooms, for example, for a delicious morel to this story.
• Sustainable Sourcing: Spotlight local farms and suppliers on your menu to create storytelling opportunities and authenticity.

Community Engagement

Hotels are transforming into community hubs where locals and guests mingle over shared meals. This engagement fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens community ties. By hosting local events, collaborating with nearby businesses, and actively engaging on social media, hotels can create a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that attracts both travelers and residents alike.

Ideas:

• Pop-up Kitchens: Host a series of pop-up kitchens, featuring kitchen takeovers by renowned local chefs for fresh menus that highlight regional ingredients and culinary traditions. 
• Outdoor Events: Host events like s’mores night or a Hawaiian luau to attract both guests and locals.

Less Choice is More

Nowadays, less is more when it comes to dining options, with chefs focusing on creating smaller, tailored menus that emphasize local, seasonal ingredients. This approach reduces operational costs and enhances the dining experience by offering thoughtfully crafted dishes. 

Ideas:

• Prix Fixe Menus: Offer seasonal, fixed-price menus that highlight local ingredients—and streamline your menu and inventory.
• One Hit Wonder: Become known for a single, standout dish that keeps guests coming back. Embrace the trend of single-dish restaurants to streamline operations and build a strong reputation. For example, a fresh twist on a lobster roll if you’re on the East Coast celebrates local traditions. This focused approach can create a dedicated following and set you apart from the competition.

Elevated Snacks

Today’s travelers crave elevated convenience foods that offer a touch of luxury. Transform your on-site convenience store by offering gourmet options like artisanal sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or house-made snacks. This small indulgence can make guests feel pampered and enhance their overall stay experience, turning mundane moments into memorable ones.

Ideas:

• Gourmet Snacks: Offer upscale snacks like house-made garlic pita chips with locally sourced bruschetta.
• Local Delicacies: Provide gourmet sandwiches from a local deli or a take-out charcuterie. Incorporate local flavors into your convenience offerings to give guests a taste of the region. Partner with local artisans and delis to provide fresh, high-quality products that reflect the unique culinary landscape of your area. This not only supports local businesses but also enriches the guest experience.

Non-alcoholic Beverages

Liquid lunches mean something different today than they did a few decades ago! Younger generations aren’t drinking alcohol as much as their predecessors. But that doesn’t mean the appeal of fancy drinks is disappearing. From smoothies to mocktails to performance-enhancing brews, there are plenty of ways to augment your restaurant totals. Capitalize on the rising interest in health-boosting beverages by offering options that promote wellness. These trendy beverages can support your hotel’s reputation as a forward-thinking, health-conscious destination.

Ideas:

• Mocktail Menu: Don’t just take alcoholic concoctions and remove the alcohol. Level up your mocktails with specially created, delicious drinks that are hard to resist. Develop a specialty menu of alcohol-free cocktails.
• Functional Beverages: Enhance your coffee shop menu with functional drinks like adaptogen coffee or mushroom teas, providing health benefits alongside great taste. Drinks infused with ingredients like adaptogens, turmeric, or mushroom extracts can attract guests looking for both flavor and functionality. 

Outdoor Delights

Maximize your outdoor spaces by offering unique dining experiences. Host themed events like business mixers or speed dating nights. These gatherings provide guests with memorable experiences and encourage social interaction, enhancing the community atmosphere at your hotel.

Ideas:

• Outdoor Events: Take advantage of the changing seasons by offering special promotions for outdoor dining. Create themed events that reflect the season, such as a summer luau, an autumn harvest feast, or something simple like s’mores and hot chocolate around the firepit.
• Picnic Packages: Market take-out options for guests to enjoy leisurely picnics. Provide to-go options or provide full-service picnics on your grounds!

Poolside, Please!

Offering poolside food and drinks can greatly enhance guest satisfaction while boosting F&B profits. Serve up a menu of easy-to-eat items with drinks in shatterproof glassware for poolside perfection. This service allows guests to relax and enjoy their time by the pool without the hassle of drying off and rounding up the kiddos. 

Ideas:

• Poolside Menu: Forget ribs swimming in barbeque sauce. Instead, think casual eats and finger food that are easy to nosh on between pool dips.
• Family-friendly Options: Consider the needs of families by offering kid-friendly options. Don’t forget refreshing drinks that can keep everyone happy and hydrated. This attention to detail can make a significant difference in the overall guest experience, especially for families traveling with children.

Tech for On-demand Eats

For any new F&B initiatives, tech is here to make it feasible. With platforms like Uber Eats, many guests are accustomed to the convenience of online ordering—and it frees your staff from taking direct orders. This convenience can significantly enhance the guest experience, making their stay more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Ideas:

• Online Ordering Platforms: Implement a system for guests to order food online via QR codes or an app. This is especially convenient for the poolside and room service, as well as grab-and-go options. Simplify the ordering process with QR codes placed conveniently around your hotel.
• POS Integration: Integrate your restaurant point-of-sale system with your property management system to automatically post food and beverage charges to room reservations.
• Stay and Dine Packages: Create packages that combine a stay with prix fix menus and other special dining events. Configure your package to automatically post F&B charges to your F&B account for accurate revenue tracking.

Now is the perfect time to elevate your food and beverage game! Exceptional dining options are a key factor in travelers’ hotel choices. By offering unique and memorable culinary experiences, you can distinguish your property from the competition and significantly boost your bottom line. The best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated. These ideas show you just how simple it can be to make a big impact. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your chef’s hat, and let’s get cooking. Bon appétit!