Cafés are very popular. They are places where one can relax in a pleasant atmosphere over a cup of a hot beverage. A café is also a profitable business. That’s why such establishments open as quickly as mushrooms grow after rain. To make a café truly popular, one must carefully compose the menu. This is the business card of the establishment that attracts visitors.
Beverages – the foundation of the café menu
First of all, one must decide on the beverages and the components for their preparation. It is essential to buy freshly roasted coffee and milk. Additives needed include sugar, chocolate, syrups, and toppings.
The beverages included in the café menu are divided into the following groups:
Mandatory – these are classic coffee-based drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, etc. They are included in the menu of all cafés without exception. This is the base assortment. Classic drinks can be diversified with alternative milk – almond, soy, coconut. It is also possible to offer the addition of syrups and toppings.
Signature – exclusive drinks with original recipes that can become the establishment's business card. These offerings attract the younger generation. Such people enjoy tasting something new and unusual.
Additional – mainly seasonal offerings. In summer, milkshakes, smoothies, and mojitos can be added to the assortment. In winter, the coffee menu should be diversified. Tea and hot chocolate also serve as additional beverages.
Water and soft drinks can also be included in the café's assortment.
Desserts
Cafés rarely limit themselves to just hot beverages. Desserts are often included in the menu. Classic offerings:
croissant – a puff pastry roll with a savory or sweet filling;
cheesecake – a creamy pie with a delicate texture, which can be topped with sweet syrup;
muffin – a small sponge cake with filling or additional components, such as raisins;
doughnuts – an airy roll with filling, powdered sugar, or syrup;
tiramisu – an exquisite dessert that can be beautifully presented.
Pastries, pies, and buns can also be added to the menu.
Main Courses
Main courses are included in the menu of stationary cafés. For their preparation, the premises must have a kitchen with the necessary equipment. In a mobile café or a kiosk in a shopping center, the possibility of equipping a kitchen is absent. Therefore, they do not offer main courses. However, if there is enough space in the café, such offerings can be added. They will attract the attention of an additional audience. Options:
Pizza – with classic and signature toppings. It should cover the tastes of as many people as possible. Therefore, pizza with cheese, meat, salami, seafood, and vegetables should be added.
Burgers and sandwiches – popular dishes for a quick snack. Visitors can be offered to choose their own toppings.
Salads – classic salads such as "Caesar" or "Greek" can be included.
Sides – there is demand for French fries, pasta, and noodles made with various recipes.
Meat dishes – nuggets, wings, etc.
It is better to determine the number of dishes at the stage of opening the establishment. The menu should be periodically updated and new offerings added. Over time, it will become clear which dishes are in demand and which can be removed from the menu.
Some useful tips
The menu should be diverse but not too complicated and overloaded with dishes. It should be well presented. This can be a brochure, screen, or board. These formats can be combined. Thus, daily specials and promotions are often written on the board.
Creating a menu is a collective effort that should involve the owner, chef, and barista.
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