Lunch crowds have a long history of being difficult to reign in, especially those popping in on a break from work. If you’re looking to capitalize on this particular group, there are few key points to keep in mind about the modern working man or woman according to Parade.
- Lunch is loosely translated into anytime between 10:30-2:30
- More people are eating alone for lunch
- Modern workers tend toward smaller meals reminiscent of snacking
When planning a lunch menu all items should be quick and convenient for the chef to make and the guest to eat. Meals that can carry well in take-out or delivery form are also ideal. With all of the modern advances in technology workers are also looking for ways to dine out other than sitting down in a restaurant. Contracting with a local delivery service or offering online ordering can help draw in young professionals. Other special order options include:
- Offering group discounts
- Creating targeted lunch specials
- Being staffed for success at busy times
- Offering coupons
One of the easiest ways to capture the local lunch crowd is by knowing who they are. Take a drive around your neighborhood and see what kinds of businesses are nearby. Consider average income for the area and what competition you might have. A little recon can go a long way in enhancing your marketability.
Some popular lunch foods include:
- Soups
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Pizza
- Tacos
- Chips
- Fries
- Fruit
When creating your winning lunch menu consider taking these traditional dishes and making them unique to your restaurant. Just be sure menu items are quick and easy to make, portable, and mess-free. This way diners can eat in, chow down on the run, or dine at their desk.
Strategies for drawing in the lunch crowd should be unique to your specific location. Tailoring your menu and service options to meet the needs of your neighborhood is the quickest way to successfully serving lunch.