Once in a while in the world of Tampa restaurants, they would have to introduce new dishes or completely overhaul their menu because it’s outdated and does not run with the times. In today’s digital world run by millennials (a generation so influential that marketers have changed theories and strategies), changing for the better has never been more important.
If you own a restaurant, it’s time to take stock of what’s in your menu. Is it Instagram-worthy? Do you get your ingredients from sustainable sources? These are things that are important to this new breed of generation and they should be important to you, too, if you want to keep your business.
Use social media
Changing menus is fine. It’s how you disseminate the new information that’s going to define your success. Since most people are on social media, you have to use these platforms to announce any changes in your menu and that includes new dishes and the removal of certain dishes from the menu (remember that some may be going to your restaurant only for your tiramisu).
Let your crew answer questions
Before completely removing the old menu, let your crew inform your customers about the impending change. They could answer questions on your behalf or you can spend some time before the big switch to explain to your diners why you needed to change some of the most traditional dishes in your menu. It is important that you train your crew for this exact situation, so they know what and how to answer.
Have a trial run of the new dishes
You don’t have to immediately change the menu. You can first incorporate the new dishes as new offerings, so your customers can try them out and you can receive their feedback. You can start offering the dishes that would be included in the new menu. It’s a good way to test the market first before completely changing what they have been used to.
Run a promo, discount, contest
The one sure way they would remember your restaurant is through promos, discounts, and maybe even a contest. How about a free romantic dinner for two? All your customers would have to do is share the new information (menu) about your restaurant. You’ll get free advertising and they have the chance to win a free dinner just by clicking the share button on their Facebook accounts. It’s a win-win situation, though the odds are better on your side.