November 24th QSR Roundup: AI's Thanksgiving Menu Magic, Cargill's Culinary Innovations, and Challenges in Home-Based Food Startups

QSR news for Nov 24th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 20 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 89 minutes. It'll take you only 9 minutes to catch up.

AI's Thanksgiving Menu Magic

Planning Thanksgiving can be a stressful endeavor, but ChatGPT is here to help simplify the process by crafting a complete menu:

• Appetizers: Deviled Eggs, Cranberry Brie Bites, Autumn Charcuterie Board.
• Main Dishes: Roast Turkey with Herb Butter or Butternut Squash Lasagna for vegetarians.
• Sides: Classic Stuffing, Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Sauce.
• Desserts: Pumpkin Pie, Apple Crisp, Pecan Pie Bars.
• Drinks: Hot Spiced Apple Cider, Cranberry Ginger Mocktail, Pumpkin Spice Latte.

But it's not just about food! ChatGPT also offers decor tips to create a festive atmosphere, from autumn wreaths to themed plates and napkins.

If menu planning feels overwhelming, why not let AI lend a hand for a delightful and manageable experience? 🍽️🤖

Source: Salon

Cargill's Culinary Innovations in Singapore

Cargill is renovating its Singapore Innovation Center to meet evolving food trends in Asia:

• Completion by Early 2025: Enhancements will enable better collaboration with customers across food manufacturing, service, and retail sectors.
• Focus on Indulgent Foods: Boosting innovation in areas like bakery, chocolate, ice cream, and café-style beverages.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: A revamped kitchen, Chocolate Academy for product co-creation, and a lab for functional food solutions to improve taste and texture.
• Growth in Food Service: Rising middle-class consumer power is driving demand for takeaway and dining options in the region.
• Strengthening Local Connections: Cargill aims to create novel food experiences tailored for Asian consumers by partnering with local entities.

Cargill's investment signifies a commitment to innovation and meeting consumer demands in the bustling Asian market. 🍫🌏

Source: Food Industry Executive

Challenges in Funding Home-Based Food Startups

Securing funds for home-based food businesses in LA County can be tough. A restaurant owner shared their quest for startup funds ($1k-$10k), sparking a discussion on creative financing and legal considerations:

Funding and Equipment Strategies:

• Auctions: An excellent way to get high-quality equipment at 80-90% discounts.
• Social Media Selling: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok to test market demand before significant investments.
• Community Resources: Organizations like the SBA and local economic development centers may offer support.

Legal Considerations:

• Regulations: Home-based food sales may require a commercial kitchen setup.
• Permitting Costs: LA County has low permitting costs but limited annual sales for home-based operations.

Balancing creativity in fundraising with legal compliance is crucial for aspiring food entrepreneurs. 💡🍲

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Google Business Profile Woes

Restaurant owners are encountering issues with outdated menu links on their Google Business Profiles, specifically with services like Checkle:

• Clicking the menu link directs customers to an outdated Checkle menu.
• Attempts to remove or update the link have been met with frustration and lack of assistance.

Community Advice:

• Contact Checkle Directly: Establish an account for proper communication and request updates.
• Consider Legal Steps: If unresponsive, some suggest sending a cease and desist letter.
• Alternative Solutions: Pay another company to host the menu or directly update the Google profile.

Managing online business representations can be challenging, but proactive steps can help regain control over your restaurant's digital presence. 🖥️🍴

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Best Opportunities for Restaurant Managers

A seasoned restaurant general manager seeking new opportunities received valuable insights:

Advice from Industry Peers:

• Assess Potential Employers: Dine at prospective workplaces to gauge employee satisfaction and operational systems.
• Explore Non-Traditional Roles: Consider positions outside traditional restaurants, such as:
  • Manufacturing: Roles like director positions with better pay and less physical strain.
  • Country Clubs: Often offer better pay and hours, treating dining services as amenities.
  • Casino Towns: Cities like Orlando and Vegas with thriving hospitality industries.

Broadening the search can lead to opportunities with advancement potential and desirable compensation. 🎯👨‍🍳

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Dishwashers: To Lease or Own?

Deciding between leasing or owning dishwashers is a common dilemma:

Leasing Advantages:

• Convenience: Services and repairs are covered, reducing downtime during busy periods.
• Cost Predictability: Regular payments without unexpected repair costs.

Owning Considerations:

• Upfront Costs: Purchasing can be expensive initially.
• Maintenance: Responsibility falls on the owner, which can lead to delays and higher costs.

The strong consensus among restaurant professionals leans towards leasing due to the peace of mind and efficiency it provides. Choosing the right option depends on individual business needs. 🔧🚿

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Minors Bussing Tables and Alcohol Laws

A hostess in Tennessee faced possible termination for clearing a table with an empty alcoholic glass, raising questions about the legality:

• Legal Perspective: It's generally not illegal for minors to handle empty alcohol containers.
• Management Policies: The restaurant's stance may be overly cautious or misinformed.

Community Consensus:

• Many agree that minors can bus tables with alcoholic remnants without legal issues.
• The focus is on possession and service, not on cleaning up.

Understanding state laws and clear communication with management can prevent such misunderstandings. 📝🍽️

Source: /r/restaurant

Expired IDs and Alcohol Service

A 28-year-old wonders if they can be served alcohol with an expired ID:

• Legal Requirement: Serving alcohol requires a valid, unexpired ID.
• Bar Policies Vary: Some establishments might overlook expiration dates, but it's not guaranteed.

Community Insights:

• Experiences vary widely; some have been denied service despite being obviously over 21.
• Some bartenders may check expiration dates strictly, especially in establishments concerned about compliance.

Planning ahead by renewing your ID or carrying alternative valid identification can prevent these hassles. 🆔🍻

Source: /r/restaurant

Father-Son Duo Considering Restaurant Ownership

A father with extensive experience as a lead cook wants to open a restaurant with his son. The community offers a mix of caution and encouragement:

Advice Highlights:

• High Failure Rates: 60% of new restaurants fail within the first year, 80% within five years.
• Gain More Experience: Suggest exploring better-paying positions or negotiating a raise before taking the leap.
• Thorough Planning: Understanding both culinary and business aspects is crucial.

Alternative Suggestions:

• Start Small: Consider a food truck or catering to test the market.
• Clear Agreements: If proceeding, ensure clear roles and expectations are set.

Balancing ambition with realistic planning can set the foundation for success in the challenging restaurant industry. 👨‍👦🍽️

Source: /r/restaurant

Refunding a Sandwich Order Dilemma

A restaurant owner wondered whether to refund a customer who ordered a sandwich with prosciutto, only to refuse it upon learning it's pork:

• Customer Service Priority: Many recommend accommodating the customer to maintain goodwill.
• Potential Solutions:
  • Offer a Replacement: Swap the sandwich for an alternative.
  • Educate Politely: Inform customers about ingredients in a friendly manner.

Community Sentiment:

• Emphasize the importance of customer relationships over strict policies.
• Recognize that dietary restrictions can be complex, and mistakes happen.

Going the extra mile in customer service can lead to loyalty and positive word-of-mouth. 🥪👍

Source: /r/restaurant

The Waffle House Call-Out System Debate

A former Waffle House employee questions the effectiveness of the traditional call-out system:

• Challenges Noted:
  • Cooks struggling to keep up with orders.
  • The system feeling outdated in fast-paced environments.

Diverse Opinions:

• Some defend the system, citing personal experiences of efficiency.
• Others believe it's time for an update or additional support for cooks.

Potential Solutions:

• Improved Training: Ensure staff are well-versed in the system.
• Technology Integration: Supplement with modern tools to enhance efficiency.

Balancing tradition with innovation may help Waffle House maintain its unique charm while meeting current demands. 🍳🏠

Source: /r/restaurant

Working at RH: Are Company Values Genuine?

A new cook at RH questions the authenticity of the company's professed values:

• Employee Experiences:
  • Skepticism about 'family values' in corporate restaurant settings.
  • Instances where corporate interests overrode personal emergencies.

Compensation Trade-Offs:

• Some acknowledge that RH offers better pay than competitors.

Community Insight:

• Take Corporate Values with Caution: Marketing may not reflect reality.
• Focus on Personal Goals: Evaluate whether the benefits align with your career objectives.

Understanding the corporate culture and setting personal expectations can help navigate the workplace effectively. 💼🍴

Source: /r/restaurant

Is the Shift Leader Sabotaging Work?

An employee suspects their shift leader might be sabotaging their work:

• Incidents Reported:
  • Spilled cereal due to a cut bag.
  • Tasks not completed as claimed.

Community Feedback:

• Many suggest the issues may stem from lack of experience and training.
• Encouraged the employee to practice self-accountability and open communication.

Recommendations:

• Seek additional training or clarification on tasks.
• Discuss concerns with management professionally.

Focusing on personal growth and addressing concerns openly can improve the work environment. 🛠️🤝

Source: /r/restaurant

Red Flags in a Chinese Restaurant Job

A new employee at a busy Chinese restaurant in NYC feels uneasy due to language barriers:

• Concerns:
  • No English-speaking staff or managers.
  • Feeling out of place or isolated.

Community Perspective:

• Language barriers don't necessarily indicate a bad workplace.
• Suggest assessing personal comfort and considering language learning as an opportunity.

Advice:

• Communicate your concerns to management if possible.
• Trust your instincts about workplace fit.

It's important to feel comfortable and supported in your work environment. 📣🇨🇳

Source: /r/restaurant

Pets in Restaurants: A Heated Debate

There's strong discourse on whether pets should be allowed in restaurants:

• Health Concerns:
  • Hygiene issues and potential health code violations.
  • Only certified service animals should be permitted inside.

Incidents Shared:

• Instances of pets misbehaving, causing disruptions.
• Employees facing issues when pets are brought into kitchen areas.

Consensus:

• Pets should remain outdoors or in designated areas.
• Clear rules are needed to distinguish between service animals and emotional support pets.

Balancing pet-friendly policies with health and safety regulations is key to maintaining a pleasant dining experience for all. 🐾🚫

Source: /r/restaurant

Pricing Tips for Bar Buyouts

Bar owners share advice on how to price buyouts for open bar events:

• Pricing Strategies:
  • Charge 1.5 to 2.5 times the usual revenue.
  • Estimate total sales based on expected consumption and staffing costs.
• Important Considerations:
  • Contracts: Get a signed agreement and credit card authorization to secure payment.
  • Legal Terms: Include clauses about service cut-offs and liability.

Additional Insights:

• Check competitor pricing to remain competitive.
• Be clear about what's included in the package.

Careful planning and clear communication can ensure successful and profitable buyout events. 📊🥂

Source: /r/BarOwners

Automated Cocktail Dispensers: Yay or Nay?

Bar owners discuss the use of automated cocktail dispensers like Smartender:

• Pros:
  • Efficiency: Reduced waste and faster service.
  • Consistency: Standardized drink quality.
• Cons:
  • Customer Experience: Potential loss of the bartender's personal touch and engagement.
  • Skepticism: Doubts about the technology fully replicating the bar experience.

Alternatives:

• Kegged Cocktails: Pre-mixed drinks on tap can balance efficiency with quality.
• Partial Automation: Using technology to assist but not replace bartenders.

Finding the right balance between innovation and maintaining the unique atmosphere of a bar is essential. 🍹🤖

Source: /r/BarOwners

Draft Beer Setup: Tips for Bar Owners

Planning a draft beer system? Here's what bar owners suggest:

• Number of Taps:
  • Quality over Quantity: Fewer taps with larger kegs (1/2 barrel) can be more profitable.
  • Curated Selection: A well-thought-out beer list often outperforms a larger, unfocused selection.
• Keg Sizes:
  • Larger kegs reduce the frequency of changes and can be more cost-effective.
  • Consider your audience and popular beer choices.
• Pitcher Sales:
  • Popular for cheap domestics, but less so for craft beers.
  • Decide based on your target market and demand.

Additional Advice:

• Consult with beer distributors for setup assistance.
• Be cautious of unnecessary upsells; focus on what suits your bar's needs.

Efficient use of bar space and understanding customer preferences are key to a successful draft setup. 🍺🍻

Source: /r/BarOwners

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