From college and university to healthcare and K-12, every foodservice segment succeeds when comfort food appears on the menu. Whether it’s a casserole that’s been cleaned up, nutritionally speaking, or a potato-based side dish that’s been doctored for extra flavor, diners will relish seeing a familiar favorite available for order. According to Technomic’s 2017 Flavor report, about one-fifth of consumers (including 23% of baby boomers) say that they prefer sticking to their favorite flavors and rarely try new ones. But a larger number—65% of consumers overall—say that they like trying new flavors from time to time. With updated classics, both groups can find something they like.
As customer tastes have become more sophisticated and the expectation for quality, flavorful foods has risen, there’s an opportunity for chefs. It’s not about reinventing the wheel, but rather modifying that wheel to make it more appealing in a number of ways. Take, for example, a Southwest Potato Casserole—diners know and love potato casseroles, but add a southwestern twist with beans, corn and red bell pepper, and it can intrigue a guest looking for something a little different.
When trying to revamp these classics, there’s no need to spend a bunch of time to create new menu items. Rather, start with a quality base product and then add a twist that will appeal to customers. Here’s four ways to do that.