January 26th QSR Roundup: Minimize Food Waste with Smart Storage Techniques and Embrace Unique Restaurant Off-Night Activities

QSR news for Jan 26th, 2025. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 14 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 45 minutes. It'll take you only 7 minutes to catch up.

Smart Storage Tips to Reduce Food Waste

Grocery shopping can be overwhelming, especially when food spoils faster than expected. Here are some expert strategies to help you minimize waste and make the most of your groceries:

• Store Food Properly: Adjusting storage conditions can significantly extend the life of produce, baked goods, and more. Remember, the right environment matters!
• Stick to a Grocery List: Anya Obrez from NRDC recommends planning ahead to avoid impulse buys. This ensures you purchase only what you need.
• Meal Planning is Key: By planning your meals, you can manage food consumption better and reduce unnecessary waste.
• Get Creative in the Kitchen: Don't toss those overripe bananas! Freeze them for smoothies or try new recipes that utilize leftover ingredients.
• Consistent Habits Year-Round: Reducing waste isn't just for special occasions. Incorporate these habits daily for long-term benefits.

Highlighted Tip: Small changes in storage and shopping habits can lead to significant savings and less food waste.

Source: Salon

The Beef Tallow Skincare Trend: Should You Try It?

A surprising skincare trend is gaining attention: using beef tallow as a moisturizer. Advocates claim it offers moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits, rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, and closely resembles natural skin oils. But what do the experts say?

• Dermatologists Express Concerns: There's a lack of scientific evidence supporting beef tallow's skincare benefits. Plus, unregulated sources may pose risks.
• Potential Acne Trigger: Beef tallow is highly comedogenic and can worsen acne for some users.
• Mixed User Experiences: While some with dry skin report benefits, others experience flare-ups.
• Alternatives Available: Shea butter and coconut oil provide hydration without the meaty scent.

Highlighted Concern: Beef tallow might not be the skincare miracle it's touted to be—proceed with caution!

Source: Salon

Creative Ideas to Boost Your Restaurant's Off-Nights

Looking for ways to attract customers on traditionally slow nights? Restaurant owners share their innovative ideas:

• Host Nostalgic Gaming Nights: An N64 night or old-school gaming can draw in fans of classic games. 🎮
• Organize Speed Dating Events: A fun social event that brings people together. 💘
• Try Jukebox Bingo: A twist on bingo that's been a huge success for some—keep the crowd engaged! 🎶
• Hold Cribbage Tournaments: Cater to an older clientele with classic games. ♠️
• Service Industry Nights: Invite local workers for special deals and a sense of community. 🍻

Highlighted Idea: Think outside the box—unique events can turn quiet nights into bustling evenings!

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurantowners)

Creating Your Restaurant Website: Tips and Considerations

Building an online presence is crucial for restaurants today. Here’s advice from experienced owners and developers:

• Choose User-Friendly Platforms: WordPress, Squarespace, and GoDaddy are recommended for their ease of use and customization.
• Time vs. Focus: While creating a website yourself can save money, consider whether your time is better spent on other aspects of your business.
• Importance of SEO: Optimize your site with keywords to increase visibility and attract customers.
• Keep It Simple and Up-to-Date: Regularly update menus and hours, and include appealing food photos to enhance customer experience.
• Consider Professional Help: If web design isn't your forte, hiring a professional can ensure a polished result.

Highlighted Advice: Your website is often the first impression—make it count!

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurantowners)

Financial Management: Debt and Credit Card Fees in Restaurants

Managing finances in the restaurant industry can be challenging. Here's what owners are discussing:

Debt Management Insights

• Leverage Debt Wisely: Using debt for growth is common, but it's crucial to keep it under control.
• Safe Debt Ratios: Aim to keep debt under 30% of capital and ensure earnings cover fixed charges at least twice over.
• Caution on Expansion: Some advise that a 10% profit margin is tough to achieve, so proceed carefully with growth plans.

Renegotiating Credit Card Fees

• High Processing Fees: Some are paying up to 3.25% plus monthly fees, cutting into profits.
• Negotiate for Better Rates: Leverage your history with your POS provider to secure lower fees.
• Explore Alternatives: Consider other POS systems like Clover or SQUARE that may offer competitive rates.
• Passing Fees to Customers?: Some discuss the possibility, but it's essential to weigh the potential impact on customer satisfaction.

Highlighted Tip: Stay proactive in managing fees and debts to keep your restaurant financially healthy!

Sources: Reddit (/r/restaurateur, /r/restaurant)

Opening Your Own Diner: Is It the Right Move?

A 23-year-old cook is contemplating taking over an old diner. Here’s what the community advises:

• Gain More Experience: Learn about the business side before taking the plunge.
• Understand the Risks: The restaurant industry has a high failure rate; be realistic about earnings and effort required.
• Start Small: If you decide to proceed, consider slowly making changes and building on existing clientele.
• Seek Support: Involve family or trusted partners to share management and financial responsibilities.

Highlighted Question: Are you ready for the challenges of owning a restaurant, or should you gather more experience first?

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurant)

Beyond Google Maps: Finding the Best Local Restaurants

Tired of chain restaurants dominating your search results? Here's how to discover hidden gems:

• Use Reservation Apps: Platforms like OpenTable and Resy offer pictures and availability, helping you find quality spots.
• Check Food Subreddits: Local communities like r/chicagofood can provide personal recommendations.
• Word-of-Mouth: Ask locals or friends for their favorite places—sometimes the best finds aren't online.
• Specific Searches: Use precise keywords in your Google searches to narrow down results.
• Alternative Apps: While Yelp has mixed reviews, it can still be helpful for photos and community insights.

Highlighted Strategy: Don't rely solely on Google Maps—explore other resources to find the perfect dining experience!

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurant)

Navigating Hiring Practices and Immigration Issues in Restaurants

The restaurant industry often relies on undocumented workers, leading to complex legal and ethical considerations:

• Dependence on Undocumented Workers: Many businesses struggle to stay open without them due to labor shortages.
• Legal Risks: Hiring undocumented workers is illegal, but enforcement varies, and some see it as necessary.
• Economic Contributions: Millions of undocumented individuals pay taxes and contribute to the economy.
• Systemic Issues: Some argue the problem lies with immigration policies rather than employers.

Highlighted Point: Balancing legal compliance with practical staffing needs is a significant challenge for restaurant owners.

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurant)

The Beloved Egg McMuffin: Love It or Leave It?

Fast food fans are sharing their opinions on the classic Egg McMuffin:

• Nostalgia vs. Reality: Many reminisce about the original taste but feel the quality has declined.
• Preparation Matters: Overcooked eggs and under-toasted muffins are common complaints.
• Homemade Alternatives: Some prefer making similar sandwiches at home for better quality.
• Price Concerns: Rising prices and inflation make some question the value.
• Exploring Options: Fans suggest trying alternatives like the Sausage McGriddle or competitors' offerings.

Highlighted Sentiment: The Egg McMuffin sparks both nostalgia and disappointment among fans—has it lost its sizzle?

Source: Reddit (/r/fastfood)

When Bad Chips Ruin the Meal: Would You Stay?

An unsatisfactory start at a Mexican restaurant left a diner questioning whether to proceed with their meal:

• Importance of First Impressions: Bad chips and salsa can set a negative tone.
• Deciding to Stay or Go: Some believe it's fair to leave if the basics aren't up to par.
• Observing the Atmosphere: Watching other diners' reactions can provide clues about overall quality.
• Mixed Perspectives: While some think leaving is justified, others feel it's hasty based on complimentary items.

Highlighted Dilemma: Should a disappointing appetizer prompt you to leave, or give the main dishes a chance?

Source: Reddit (/r/restaurant)

Sprucing Up Your Sports Bar Decor

Need ideas to fill that large empty wall? Here's what fellow bar owners suggest:

• Source Local Artwork: Find unique pieces from local artists to add character.
• Utilize Digital Displays: Mount a big TV to showcase events, promotions, or dynamic content.
• Shop Smart: Use Facebook Marketplace or eBay for deals on sports memorabilia and iconic moments.
• Liquor Rep Resources: Ask reps for branded signs—but be aware of local regulations.
• Explore Online Retailers: Websites like Elephant Stock and Fathead offer a variety of wall art.

Highlighted Suggestion: Mixing unique local pieces with dynamic displays can make your decor stand out!

Source: Reddit (/r/BarOwners)

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