March 9th QSR Roundup: Daily Prep List Strategies, Overcoming Staff Availability Challenges, and Real Insights from the Industry

QSR news for Mar 9th, 2025. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 29 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 135 minutes. It'll take you only 10 minutes to catch up.

Mastering the Perfect Air Fryer Burger at Home 🍔

Air fryers aren't just for fries anymore! Crafting juicy, flavorful burgers at home is easier than ever.

• Choose Your Protein: Opt for beef, pork, turkey, or plant-based options. Season generously for maximum flavor.
• Perfect Patty Formation: Create patties with a slight indentation to prevent puffing during cooking.
• Cooking Instructions: Air fry at 375°F for 14 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
• Gourmet Toppings: Elevate your burger with crispy leeks, special sauces, or your favorite fixings.

The author reminisces about nostalgic burger experiences, adding a personal touch to the process. Embrace the creativity and enjoy your own burger nirvana right from your kitchen!

Source: Salon

HTeaO Expands with New Store in Webb City, Missouri 🍵

HTeaO celebrates the grand opening of its new location in Webb City, Missouri!

• Community Commitment: Franchisee Jett Dueitt is thrilled to join the community, focusing on building relationships and supporting local events.
• Flavorful Offerings: The store boasts over 20 specially crafted tea flavors, all made with natural ingredients and a proprietary filtration system.

This marks the 17th HTeaO store managed by HTea Opco, LLC, solidifying their presence in the state and bringing refreshing choices to tea enthusiasts.

Source: QSR Web

Efficient Daily Prep List Strategies for Your Restaurant Kitchen 📋

Streamlining your kitchen operations starts with effective prep list management. Here's how restaurant owners are optimizing their processes:

Varied Approaches:

• Digital Solutions: Utilizing Excel docs and Google Sheets for dynamic tracking and collaborative updates.
• Whiteboard Method: A giant whiteboard allows staff to check off daily items and add notes, promoting team communication.
• Paper Systems: Clipboards with detailed lists specifying items, quantities, and responsible staff enhance accountability.

Key Highlights:

• Accountability: Assigning specific tasks to staff members ensures responsibilities are clear.
• '911 List': Keeping track of items that ran out to prioritize restocking and avoid future shortages.

Balancing traditional methods with digital advancements can boost efficiency and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Overcoming Staff Availability Challenges in the Restaurant Industry 👩‍🍳⏰

Scheduling woes due to fluctuating staff availability? Here's how owners are tackling the issue:

• Set Clear Policies: Implement strict rules about availability changes, especially within the first 90 days of employment.
• Communication is Key: Clearly outline expectations during orientation to prevent misunderstandings.
• Hire Full-Time Staff: Shifting focus to full-time employees can reduce the complexities of scheduling part-timers.
• Balance Flexibility and Needs: While accommodating staff schedules (like for schooling), ensure it doesn't compromise business operations.
• Motivate with Prime Shifts: Reward hardworking staff with desirable shifts to encourage consistent availability.

Understanding the dynamics between staff flexibility and business requirements is crucial for a harmonious workplace.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Soda Guns vs. Cans: Making the Right Choice for Your Establishment 🥤

Debating between installing a soda gun or sticking with cans? Consider these insights:

• Cost Efficiency: Soda guns can reduce costs to about $0.03 per drink, compared to $0.57 per can, benefiting high-volume sales.
• Maintenance Matters: While some suppliers offer free installation and upkeep, reliability varies. Ensure your provider offers consistent service.
• Brand Loyalty: Customer preferences between Coke and Pepsi can influence your decision. Regional popularity plays a significant role.
• Operational Efficiency: Soda guns save fridge space and speed up service times but require regular cleaning and maintenance.
• Venue Volume: For smaller establishments, cans might be more practical due to lower sales and storage considerations.

Assess your sales volume, customer preferences, and capacity for maintenance before making the switch.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Creative Solutions Amidst the Egg Price Crisis 🥚💰

Skyrocketing egg prices are hitting restaurants hard, but owners are finding innovative ways to cope.

• Significant Hike: Egg prices have soared from ~$20 to over $150 per case, straining budgets.
• Diverse Strategies:
  • Alternative Suppliers: Switching to local farms or bulk retailers like Costco and Walmart for better prices.
  • Egg Substitutes: Incorporating alternatives like applesauce or avocado oil in baking.
  • Menu Adjustments: Raising prices or temporarily removing egg-heavy dishes.
• Customer Communication: Many patrons are understanding of price increases due to widespread retail hikes.
• Looking Ahead: There's optimism that prices may stabilize, prompting short-term adjustments.

By exploring different suppliers and tweaking menus, businesses can navigate these challenging times while keeping customers satisfied.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Taking the Leap: Facing Fears When Opening a Restaurant 🚀

Embarking on a new restaurant venture is thrilling yet nerve-wracking. Industry veterans share their wisdom:

• Embrace the Fear: It's natural to feel scared; it means you're challenging yourself.
• Prepare Thoroughly:
  • Solid Financial Plan: Ensure you have a detailed budget and projections.
  • Build a Strong Team: Hire competent staff to delegate responsibilities effectively.
  • Marketing Matters: Invest in branding and promotion to attract customers.
• Industry Challenges: Be aware of the current economic climate and potential obstacles.
• Peer Support: Fellow restaurateurs encourage taking calculated risks and learning from the journey.

Courage, combined with careful planning, can lead to a rewarding experience in the culinary world.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Navigating the Current Restaurant Slowdown 📉

Experiencing a dip in sales? You're not alone. Here's what might be contributing:

• Economic Factors: Inflation and higher costs may deter customers from dining out.
• Seasonal Trends: Events like Lent traditionally see reduced restaurant traffic.
• Consumer Behavior: Shifts in tipping and spending habits are impacting revenues.
• Mixed Experiences: While some see significant slowdowns, others report steady or increased business, possibly due to tax refunds or effective marketing.

Strategies to Consider:

• Promotions: Implement specials or discounts to entice customers.
• Community Engagement: Strengthen relationships with local patrons.
• Cost Management: Reevaluate expenses to maintain profitability.

Staying adaptable and responsive to market changes is key to weathering the slowdown.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

McDonald's Steak Sandwich: A Mixed Review 🥩

McDonald's steak breakfast sandwich garners varied opinions from customers.

• Positive Feedback: Some customers adore it, praising its taste when prepared well and considering it a standout menu item.
• Negative Experiences: Others find the quality inconsistent, encountering gristly or chewy meat.
• Limited Availability: Questions arise about why the steak option is restricted to breakfast hours.
• Personalization: Customers enjoy customizing their orders, enhancing their experience.

Despite mixed reviews, the steak sandwich maintains a loyal fan base craving consistency and broader availability.

Source: /r/fastfood

Shoney's Seafood Fest Sparks Nostalgia 🍤

Shoney's Annual Seafood Fest is underway until April 19, 2025, stirring fond memories among patrons.

• Nostalgic Appeal: Long-time fans reminisce about favorite offerings like all-you-can-eat shrimp.
• Surprise at Survival: Some express astonishment that Shoney's is still operating.
• Desire for Expansion: Enthusiasts wish for Shoney's to open locations in new regions.

The festivity highlights the enduring affection for Shoney's classic dishes and the emotional connection with its customers.

Source: /r/fastfood

Do Restaurants Adjust Food Quality for Influencers? 📷🍽️

A discussion emerges on whether restaurants serve higher-quality food to influencers.

• Enhanced Dishes: Some patrons notice better-tasting meals when dining with influencers.
• Special Treatment: It's suggested that restaurants may prioritize presentation and quality to secure positive reviews.
• Customer Impact: Regular diners might receive less attention, leading to inconsistent experiences.
• Ethical Considerations: The practice raises questions about fairness and authenticity in customer service.

Maintaining consistent quality for all patrons is crucial for building trust and a solid reputation.

Source: /r/restaurant

Clearing Up Payroll Timing Confusion in Restaurants 💰🕒

Employees express frustration over unclear payroll schedules.

• Payroll Start Dates: Issues arise when pay periods start mid-week, complicating hour tracking.
• Tip Reporting Cutoffs: Ambiguity in reporting periods creates confusion about earnings.
• Solutions Offered:
  • Request Detailed Paystubs: Employees can seek clarity through documentation.
  • Use Payroll Apps: Technology can provide real-time access to hours and tips.

Transparent communication about payroll processes fosters trust and satisfaction among staff.

Source: /r/restaurant

The Importance of Cleanliness: A McDonald's Experience 🧽

A customer's discontent with a dirty McDonald's sparks a broader conversation.

• High Expectations: As fast-food prices rise, customers expect cleaner environments akin to sit-down restaurants.
• Visible Cleanliness: Messy dining areas lead to concerns about unseen kitchen hygiene.
• Franchise Variations: Standard consistency varies, impacting customer perceptions.

Prioritizing cleanliness is essential for customer retention and overall reputation.

Source: /r/restaurant

Revitalizing a Struggling Sports Bar: Proven Strategies 🏈🍻

Facing dwindling patronage? Here are tactics to breathe new life into your sports bar.

• Community Engagement:
  • Sponsorships: Support local schools and events to foster loyalty.
  • Local Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby businesses for mutual promotion.
• Event Promotions:
  • Sports Seasons: Capitalize on events like March Madness with specials.
  • Social Activities: Host trivia or game nights to draw diverse crowds.
• Quality Focus:
  • Signature Dishes: Enhance menu items like wings and burgers.
  • Sampling: Offer tastings of new dishes to entice repeat visits.

Understanding customer needs and creating an inviting atmosphere are key to a successful turnaround.

Source: /r/restaurant

Tracking Tables Without Numbers: Tips from the Industry 📝

Operating without physical table numbers? Here's how restaurants manage.

• Memorization: Staff are trained to learn the table layout thoroughly.
• Sectional Organization: Areas are divided into numbered sections (e.g., 30s, 40s) or creatively named zones.
• Training Importance: Familiarity with the floor plan is a core part of staff onboarding.
• Natural Recall: Over time, navigating tables becomes second nature, like knowing rooms in a home.

Effective training ensures smooth service and order accuracy without the need for physical markers.

Source: /r/restaurant

Understanding Tip Percentage Confusion on Split Bills 💡

Customers and staff alike grapple with tipping on split checks.

• Billing Glitches: Some POS systems calculate suggested tips on the total bill, not individual amounts.
• Over-Tipping Risk: This can lead to unintentional over-tipping, sometimes as high as 40%.
• Communication Need: Restaurants should ensure clarity in how tips are presented on receipts.
• Customer Vigilance: Patrons are encouraged to double-check tip calculations.

Transparency benefits both customers and servers, fostering trust and satisfaction.

Source: /r/restaurant

Deciphering Tip Out Percentages Based on Sales 🤔

Why are tip outs often calculated from total sales rather than actual tips?

• Accountability: This method discourages underreporting of cash tips.
• Fair Distribution: Ensures support staff are compensated for their contribution to sales.
• Server Concerns: Some feel penalized when tipping out more than their earned tips.
• Industry Standard: It's a common practice aimed at fairness and teamwork.

Understanding the rationale can help servers navigate and adapt to tipping structures.

Source: /r/restaurant

Should Utensils Be Included in Takeout Orders? 🍴

The debate continues over default inclusion of utensils with takeout.

• Environmental Impact: Providing utensils only upon request reduces plastic waste.
• Customer Expectations: Some expect utensils without needing to ask.
• Regional Regulations: Laws in places like California prohibit automatic inclusion.
• Practical Solutions: Adding a note in orders if utensils are needed.

Balancing sustainability with customer service is an evolving aspect of the dining experience.

Source: /r/restaurant

Tips for New Bar Owners Entering a Niche Market 🍸

Launching a cigar lounge with craft cocktails? Here's seasoned advice.

• Respect Regulars: Understand and cater to existing patrons before implementing changes.
• Quality Over Quantity: Maintain high standards for both cigars and cocktails.
• Ventilation Importance: Ensure excellent air quality for comfort.
• Engaging Events: Host pairing nights and special events to attract enthusiasts.
• Balanced Offerings: Include a range of products to accommodate varying preferences and budgets.

Listening to your clientele and providing exceptional experiences are keys to success.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Considering Purchasing a Bar with Seller Financing? 🍻

An opportunity arises to buy a bar with favorable financing—here's what to weigh.

• Due Diligence:
  • Financial Review: Scrutinize P&L statements, tax returns, and understand cash flow.
  • Reasons for Sale: Determine why the owner is selling under such terms.
• Opportunity vs. Risk:
  • Seller Financing Benefits: Lower upfront costs can ease entry.
  • Potential Red Flags: Generous terms may indicate underlying issues.
• Future Planning:
  • Improvement Potential: Assess what changes are needed for success.
  • Market Research: Understand the local competition and customer base.

Thorough analysis ensures you make an informed decision about this investment.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Navigating Copyright Lawsuits: What Restaurant Owners Need to Know ⚖️🎵

Avoiding legal pitfalls related to music performances is crucial.

• ASCAP Enforcement: The organization is cracking down on unlicensed music use.
• Owner Experiences:
  • Enforcement Tactics: Some view ASCAP's methods as aggressive.
  • Compliance Importance: Joining licensing bodies can prevent costly lawsuits.
• Liability Risks: Unauthorized performances, even unknowingly, can lead to fines.

Ensuring proper music licensing protects your establishment from legal issues.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Exploring AI-Generated Music for Your Venue 🎶🤖

Seeking cost-effective music options? AI-generated royalty-free music might be the answer.

• Licensing Challenges: Traditional fees can be prohibitive for small venues.
• AI Solutions: Technology offers new avenues for background and ambiance music without high costs.
• Mixed Opinions:
  • Quality Concerns: Some doubt if AI music meets the desired atmosphere.
  • Supportive Services: Others offer custom mixes to fit specific needs.
• Legal Considerations: Navigating copyright in AI-generated content is still developing.

Evaluating the pros and cons will help determine if this innovative option suits your venue.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Stay tuned for more concise news updates delivered right to your fingertips, saving you valuable time. As industry professionals and restaurant operators, your time is precious—spent on running your businesses, innovating menus, and enhancing customer experiences. Let us keep you informed with quick, comprehensive summaries so you can focus on what you do best. Subscribe now and join us again for the latest insights in the restaurant industry!