December 15th QSR Roundup: Exploring Trends and Challenges in the Culinary World

QSR news for Dec 15th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 15 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 53 minutes. It'll take you only 7 minutes to catch up.

Optimizing Food Order Receiving and Supply Chain Innovations

Proper food order receiving is essential for restaurant success. By verifying delivery schedules, inspecting products, and monitoring temperatures of perishables, restaurants can prevent financial losses and ensure food quality. Accurate documentation and comprehensive staff training play a vital role in enhancing accountability and inventory management.

Nulogy, a leader in manufacturing supply chain solutions, has been recognized with the 2024 Top Software & Tech award for its new Materials Management Capabilities. Their tools improve real-time data access for FMCG brands, fostering collaboration and agility in the current supply chain landscape.

Similarly, DNV's new report emphasizes the urgent need for the food and beverage sector to revamp supply chains in response to sustainability demands amid climate change and consumer expectations. 75% of companies identify sustainability as a top goal, surpassing cost efficiency and regulatory compliance. Digital transformation and tools for supply chain traceability are critical for transparency.

Sources: Total Food Service, Food Industry Executive

Pecan Milk: The Nutty Revolution in Plant-Based Milks

🥛 The plant-based milk market is rapidly evolving, and pecan milk is emerging as a unique contender among almond and oat options. PKN, founded by Laura Shenkar, highlights pecans as a drought-resistant, eco-friendly choice requiring less water and no chemicals.

Pecan milk is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, boosting brain and heart health. After 18 months of development, PKN’s Barista product offers excellent frothing quality, enhancing the consumer experience. Moreover, PKN supports local farmers by upcycling pecan pieces, creating additional revenue while maintaining sustainability.

Looking ahead, PKN plans to introduce new products in 2025, incorporating native plants to enhance flavors and nutritional benefits.

Source: Salon

Honoring the Legacy of Chef Mahmoud Almadhoun

Chef Mahmoud Almadhoun, co-founder of the Gaza Soup Kitchen, was tragically killed in a targeted drone strike on November 30. He dedicated his life to uplifting his community by providing meals, opening a medical clinic, and establishing a small school for displaced individuals in northern Gaza.

His death is seen as a deliberate attack against humanitarian efforts. The Gaza Soup Kitchen continues his mission, declaring, "We can't disappear because this is our neighborhood." His legacy embodies compassion and resilience amid ongoing conflict.

Source: Salon

Restaurant Guest Etiquette: A Call for Better Behavior

A Reddit discussion highlights the need for a public service announcement regarding appropriate restaurant guest behavior. Key issues include:

• Advance Reservations: Guests should understand that a 20-minute notice doesn't constitute a reservation.
• Proper Tipping: Servers managing split checks deserve fair tips.
• Wait Time Inquiries: Constantly asking about wait times can hinder service efficiency during busy periods.
• Grouped Billing: Large parties should consider grouping bills to simplify transactions.
• Kitchen Closing Times: Guests shouldn't expect orders after the kitchen has closed.

While many empathize with the frustrations, there are conflicting views on addressing these issues, with some advocating for better guest education and communication from staff.

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Debating Fast Food Chicken Sandwich Rankings

The debate on Reddit about fast food chicken sandwiches is heating up! Jollibee's Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Popeyes' Spicy Chicken Sandwich top the list, with many agreeing that Popeyes deserves the number one spot for its flavor.

• Chick-fil-A Criticism: Many users criticize Chick-fil-A's high ranking, mentioning high prices and declining customer service.
• Preference for Spicy: There's a general consensus that spicy versions are superior to their original counterparts.
• Service Quality: Some acknowledge Chick-fil-A's operational consistency despite mixed feelings about their sandwiches.

The conversation reflects personal preferences, taste critiques, and service experiences, showcasing how passionate people are about their chicken sandwiches!

Source: /r/fastfood

McDonald's New McValue Menu Under Fire

Customers are expressing dissatisfaction with McDonald's new McValue Menu. Key points include:

• Perceived Lack of Value: Many feel the new deals aren't appealing, with some stating that frequent changes to the dollar menu show a disconnect with consumer needs.
• Price Increases: Items that once cost $1 have increased significantly. For example, adding a second McChicken can now cost up to $3.
• Mixed Reception of Meal Deals: While some see the $5 meal deal as acceptable, others miss previous promotions like BOGO deals.
• Frustration Over Price Hikes: Customers reminisce about more affordable options and suggest bringing back simpler dollar menus.

Overall, many believe the new offerings fail to meet expectations and view the changes as a cash grab rather than genuine value.

Source: /r/fastfood

Unconventional Dining Ideas: Ketchup as a Pre-Appetizer?

A humorous Reddit discussion explores the idea of serving ketchup as a pre-appetizer. While some express confusion, others share playful suggestions:

• Ketchup Alone? Most agree that ketchup is best enjoyed with other foods, not on its own.
• Creative Combos: One user humorously suggests mixing ketchup with relish.

The interactions highlight diverse views on ketchup's role in dining, showcasing the community's light-hearted engagement.

Source: /r/restaurant

Deconstructed Coffee: A Creative Presentation

In an amusing exchange, a restaurant worker responded to a chef's inquiry about his coffee by presenting a "do-it-yourself" setup. Commenters likened this to trendy dining styles like "Family Style" and "Deconstructed" dishes.

One user humorously noted the coffee presentation's resemblance to items found in a hotel bathroom. This quirky scenario sparked a light-hearted discussion about dining trends, with the community enjoying the playful take on standard service.

Source: /r/restaurant

The Challenge of Cleaning a Neglected Flat Top Grill

A restaurant worker shared their struggle cleaning a neglected flat top grill, seeking advice after spending over an hour on it. Despite initial progress, a stubborn layer remained. They tried water, oil, bar keepers, and vinegar.

Commenters offered various tips:

• Consistent Cleaning: Emphasized the importance of cleaning after each shift.
• Hot Oil and Scrubbing: Suggested using a charcoal brick with hot oil.
• Using Vinegar: Recommended combining vinegar with grill bricks.

Some criticized the grill's initial state, highlighting the necessity of daily maintenance to prevent such buildup. Regular upkeep is crucial to avoid future challenges.

Source: /r/restaurant

Cyclical Trends in Bars: Is Social Media Impacting Attendance?

A Reddit discussion compares trends in bars to cyclical fashion cycles, suggesting that we're nearing the end of the internet's first popularity cycle. Key insights include:

• Changing Social Interactions: Commenters reflect on the decline of meaningful social interactions in bars, with younger generations socializing differently.
• Business Struggles: Bar owners note rising costs and diminishing sales.
• Design Impact: Modern bar designs may inhibit interaction, leading to less social engagement.
• Future Trends Uncertain: Opinions vary on whether we're at the end of a cycle or experiencing a generational shift.

The conversation highlights changing social dynamics and their impact on the bar scene.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Challenges of Running a Bar: Closure of a Popular Oakland Spot

A popular bar in Oakland announced its closure, citing numerous complaints and difficulties operating in a challenging environment. Commenters emphasize the harsh realities of running a bar:

• Customer Reviews Impact: Negative reviews can significantly affect business.
• Industry Struggles: High costs and changing consumer behaviors make it tough to stay afloat.
• Future of the Location: Some speculate that the space might be replaced by a chain store.

The consensus underscores the tough business climate in the Bay Area and the challenges independent bars face.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Are Dating Apps Affecting Bar Attendance?

A bar owner expresses concern over reduced customer numbers, attributing it partly to the rise of dating apps. Discussion points include:

• Shift in Social Habits: Younger generations prefer online interactions, leading to fewer outings.
• Financial Factors: Rising costs of drinks and food deter customers seeking cheaper stay-at-home options.
• Decreased Alcohol Consumption: Younger people are drinking 20% less than millennials, perhaps due to wellness trends.
• Dating Dynamics: While dating apps may reduce spontaneous meetings, some argue they bring customers in for dates.
• Need for Innovation: Bars might need to adapt by offering unique experiences to attract the younger crowd.

The conversation reflects on how societal changes are impacting the bar industry.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Winter Outdoor Dining: Buying Igloos for Bars

Bars are considering purchasing igloos for winter outdoor patio use. Reddit users share experiences and recommendations:

• Where to Buy: Sources include Amazon, AliExpress, and Alibaba.
• Safety Precautions: Securing structures is essential to prevent damage from wind and snowstorms.
• Practicality Concerns: Some question the comfort and practicality, especially with larger groups.
• Safety Measures: Considerations for managing propane tanks and ensuring customer safety.

Key advice is to securely anchor these structures and assess their suitability for the venue.

Source: /r/BarOwners

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