ArchivesCategories |
Back to Blog
9 Best Donut Shops in Philadelphia in 2020
Philadelphia may be known for their cheesesteaks, but it’s no secret that good food is everywhere in the city. That being said, donuts are no exception. We’ve compiled a list of all of the famous donut shops in the city, so that you can try the best donuts in Philly. Whether you’re looking for gourmet flavors, or deep fried classics, Philadelphia has it all; from Reading Terminal Market (Beiler’s Donuts), to fried chicken and donuts (Federal Donuts), to vegan donuts (Dottie’s Donuts).
9 Best Donuts in Philly
Beiler’s DoughnutsCenter City 51 N 12th Street
Made fresh daily on location, Beiler’s Doughnuts has been serving donuts (or doughnuts?) in Reading Terminal Market for 30 years! Beiler’s is a family business and one of the original merchants to enter Reading Terminal Market. Some specialty donuts that you mind not find elsewhere include the Fruity Pebbles chocolate donut and the caramel apple donut. This family owned business makes some of the best donuts in Philadelphia. Aside from their Reading Terminal location, Beiler’s has one more location in Philadelphia, as well as a location in Lancaster. Reading Terminal Market is an essential destination to visit while in Philadelphia. When you walk into the market, you’re surrounded by countless food stands and restaurants. We recommend checking out Reading Terminal for dinner or lunch, and stopping at Beiler’s for dessert.
Federal DonutsMultiple Locations Philadelphia
Federal Donuts have debatably the best donuts in Philadelphia, but they’re far from a traditional donut shop. In a flawless execution of mixing sweet and savory, Federal Donuts specializes in serving both donuts and fried chicken. Federal Donuts is known for classic donuts in unexpected flavors. Their gourmet donuts come in flavors like Irish Potato, Grapefruit Brulee, and Blueberry Cheesecake. They also serve fried chicken with a number of flavors of seasoning, and even serve breakfast sandwiches. Federal Donuts are a staple in the Philadelphia donut market. Stop here when you want to bring the office something special. There are multiple locations from Fairmount to South Philly and more.
Dottie’s DonutsWest Philly, Queen Village 4529 Springfield Ave, 509 S. 6th St
The taste might fool you, but Dottie’s Donuts are a 100% vegan donut shop. Dottie’s Donuts is located in Cedar Park, West Philadelphia with a second location in South Philly. Their menu of all vegan donuts include flavors such as Blueberry Maple, Almond Joy, Apple Fritter, Lemon Poppy, and many more. Their price point is shockingly low for such a high-quality vegan donut shop. Follow Dottie’s Donuts on Instagram for a mouth-watering showcase of their donuts and baked goods. Whether or not you’re vegan, stop by Dottie’s Donuts next time you’re in West Philadelphia. You won’t regret it.
Factory DonutsMayfair 7114 Frankford Avenue
Factory Donuts takes pride in serving fresh donuts daily. They’re easily the best donuts you can find in the Mayfair area. They also have locations in the Philadelphia suburbs, including Media, Newtown, Doylestown, and Turnersville, NJ. Factory Donuts’ special flavors include Maple Bacon Explosion, Chocolate Coconut Dream, and Vanilla Factory. Factory Donuts also does donut nuggets, similar to Dunkin Donut’s munchkins. Like a few other donut shops on this list, Factory Donuts is a family owned establishment, and they have several locations around Pennsylvania and Florida.
Hello DonutsEast Kensington 2557 Amber St
Hello Donuts is a new donut shop in Philadelphia that was made by donut lovers, for donut lovers. Three coffee shop loving musicians had a dream to open one of their own, and it’s delicious. Hello Donuts has catering available for all of your special events. Their specialty flavors include but are not limited to Milk & Cookies, Blueberry Filled, and Banana Pancake. They even have a selection of Vegan flavors, including Chocolate Tahini and Raspberry Rose. If you’re looking for fresh donuts in the Kensington area we highly recommend this classic donut shop. Order on their website for delivery or pickup.
Frangelli’s BakerySouth Philadelphia 847 West Ritner Street
Frangelli’s is an old-school Italian bakery with excellent donuts that are made fresh daily. They pride themselves in their dedication to hand cutting every single donut. This staple of south Philly has been open through two different locations since 1947. Try their ice cream donut; ice cream of your choice between a sliced donut. The staff is welcoming and helpful, and they offer a signature pastry. The frannoli is a type of donut that has a cannoli cream filling. It’s their own invention and has been their signature for decades.
Undrgrnd DonutsFood Truck Multiple Locations
Keep your eye out for Undrgrnd Donuts, a donut cart on wheels that shows up to various street festivals and other events around Philadelphia. Undrgrnd Donuts is always a special occasion because you can’t just go to their store and try it. The least traditional donut they serve is the Homer. You’d think it’s a donut with pink frosting and sprinkles, but it’s even more unusual. The Homer is covered with vanilla glaze, raw sugar, and chocolate covered bacon chunks.
Lipkin’s BakerySouth Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia 2153 S Hancock Ave, 8013 Castor Ave
Lipkin’s Bakery is a kosher bakery that’s been in Northeast Philadelphia since 1975, plus another location in South Philly. Their motto is consistency and quality, and they deliver just that. They aren’t known just for their donuts – they serve pies, cookies, cakes, pastries, and just about anything you could expect from a bakery. Check out either of Lipkin’s Bakery’s locations, in South Philly or in the Northeast.
Flow State CoffeebarEast Kensington 2413 Frankford Ave
This coffee bar in Kensington has a serious dessert menu. Their chef, Melanie Diamond-Manlusoc is known for baking at Michelin-starred restaurants for years. Though Flow State Coffeebar is known for all of their baked goods equally, there’s nothing like their fresh cider donuts. With their menu available on GrubHub and Caviar, you don’t even need to leave your home for fresh-baked goods. Their menu consists of everything from their famous gelato, to egg wraps, and of course, their cider donuts. Final ThoughtsPhiladelphia is home to plenty of great donuts! The food scene in Philly is constantly evolving, so visit these donut shops or check out Philly’s best pizza, sushi, and more. The post 9 Best Donut Shops in Philadelphia in 2020 appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-donuts-in-philadelphia/via Blogger 9 Best Donut Shops in Philadelphia in 2020
0 Comments
Back to Blog
Best Sushi in Philadelphia in 20203/18/2020
Best Sushi in Philadelphia in 2020
Philadelphia is home to some amazing sushi. While the last decade has brought plenty of new, upscale, modern sushi restaurants, there are also smaller places you might miss if you don’t know about them. The best sushi in Philly is all across the city, from South Philly to Center City to Fishtown. Find the best sushi place in Philadelphia from our list of the top 11 open today! 11 Best Sushi Places in Philly
Royal Sushi and IzakayaQueen Village 780 S. 2nd St
While there’s no sign, you’ll know you’ve found Royal Sushi and Izakaya when you see the red lantern and the blue door. Chef Jesse Ito runs a 10-person omakase in the back, while the front of the restaurant serves a la carte Japanese cuisine including sushi and much more. Most of the fish at Royal Sushi and Izakaya is imported from Japan, meticulously prepared to perfection. The omakase menu comes with 18 pieces of the chef’s choice for $130 a person, which is steep but worthwhile.
HirokiFishtown 1355 N Front St
Hiroki is one of the most exciting dining experiences in the city right now and perfect for sushi lovers. This Fishtown sushi joint is omakase only, and offers unique sushi options. It is overseen by executive chef Hiroki Fujiyama, and it’s all about tradition and technique. The omakase comes with 20 pieces for $135 per person, and it is seasonally changed and inspired by his hometown cuisine in Kyoto, Japan. Beverages are also pre-fixed for $60, and match the food.
KinmeWashington Square West 1117 Locust St
Kinme serves up sushi and other Japanese cuisine in style. This restaurant has a sleek design and presentation, and the food is delicious too of course. They feature creative custom rolls with musical inspired names, like Fiddler, Mamma Mia, or the Kinky Boots which comes with eel, avocado, and fresh pineapple topped with tuna ball and roasted bell pepper salsa. Kinme is BYOB and has plenty of great food to offer.
Double KnotCenter City 120 S 13th St
Double Knot is famous for its downstairs sushi restaurant. While the upstairs of this two-story restaurant serves coffee and cocktails, the basement serves Japanese cuisine and some of Philadelphia’s best sushi. Aside from sushi and sashimi there are plenty of Asian inspired small plates available. Their sushi is unique in presentation, straying from tradition.
MorimotoCenter City 732 Chestnut St
Morimoto was an exciting new addition to Philadelphia’s sushi scene a few years ago, but they continue to serve excellent sushi. They serve some of the freshest fish in the city, and offer a $125 omakase menu as well as other chef’s combination menus in smaller quantities. All sushi and sashimi is available a la carte as well, and they also provide hot entrees and desserts for a full meal experience.
ZamaRittenhouse Square 128 S 19th St
Zama is known for upscale, modern sushi. They serve traditional rolls as well as innovative ones, like the cheesesteak-inspired maki. Run by chef Hiroyuki “Zama” Tanaka, Zama has a comprehensive menu of Japanese cuisine as well as super-fresh sushi and sashimi and unique dishes. They also offer a wide variety of sake and the chef’s own Drunken Zama sake.
Sakana Omakase SushiQueen Village 616 S 2nd St
Sakana offers some of the best affordable omakase in Philadelphia. They won Best of Philly in 2019, and for good reason. Their omakase can be enjoyed at $62 per person for 12 pieces of chef’s choice sushi and sashimi, or you can go all out and spend $108 per person for a huge, 90 minute omakase of 21 courses. Either way, the fish is fresh and delicious, and you’ll get a great omakase experience for less than most of the other top sushi restaurants in Philadelphia.
Vic Sushi BarRittenhouse 2035 Sansom St
It’s hard to get a seat at Vic Sushi Bar – in part due to the size, but also because it’s so popular. This BYOB sushi joint has a huge menu in a small space with only a counter and a few seats, so takeout may be a better option. Vic Sushi Bar is pretty inexpensive for its quality, with a three roll special for under $12. There’s lots to choose from here for sushi lovers who can’t break the bank over their next meal.
Aki Nom NomCenter City 1210 Walnut St
Aki Nom Nom is probably the best all-you-can-eat sushi in Philadelphia. There are plenty of choices, so you can enjoy multiple plates with your favorite sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and more. Aki Nom Nom also serves ramen, also some of the best in the city. All-you-can-eat sushi and sashimi are only $28.95 per person, which is a deal you just can’t beat.
Tuna BarOld City 205 Race St
Tuna Bar comes from Chef Kenneth Sze, and features sushi and a raw bar, plus an omakase option. The sushi and sashimi at Tuna Bar is always fresh and high quality, and they have lots of other delicious menu items as well, from gyoza to entree dishes and more. Tuna Bar features some of Chef Sze’s family recipes, and they even offer sushi making classes for customers to learn on their own once a month.
Umai UmaiNorthern Liberties 533 N 2nd St
Umai Umai is a sleek sushi restaurant with lots of character. The food is presented beautifully and the sushi is fantastic by all accounts. They cover all the classic sushi rolls before venturing into the zanier rolls, of which they are many. The sushi at Umai Umai often has other cultural influences, creating a fun dining experience, but the classic rolls are done in the traditional style. Whether you choose a strange specialty roll or a classic, you won’t be disappointed.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia is home to plenty of amazing sushi places, from upscale restaurants to hole-in-the-wall restaurants you’d never think twice about if you never tried them. Check out the best sushi in Philadelphia and let us know your favorites! Did we forget your favorite sushi place in Philly? Let us know in the comments! Find some of the other best food in Philly, like Philly’s best bottomless brunch spots or the best pizza in Philadelphia! The post Best Sushi in Philadelphia in 2020 appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-sushi-in-philadelphia/via Blogger Best Sushi in Philadelphia in 2020
Back to Blog
Best Scheduling Software for Restaurants: Restaurant Scheduling Apps for 2020
Creating schedules is difficult, even at a small business. That’s why most restaurants use a scheduling app of some sort to create and maintain weekly staff schedules. Employee scheduling software is a piece of technology that can seriously streamline the scheduling process of your restaurants. Depending on the size of your restaurant, you may have a huge staff list. There are servers, cooks, busboys, hosts, managers, bartenders, and more who need to be present each shift to keep a restaurant running successfully. The best restaurant scheduling software makes it easy to create schedules that work for everyone, and many come with other useful features as well. Check out the best scheduling tools for restaurants to find one that fits your restaurant business! 7 Best Restaurant Scheduling Software and Apps
7shifts
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Verdict7shifts was made for restaurants, which is why it’s such a popular choice for restaurant owners. This software makes it easy to create shift schedules and has plenty of other features as well. This comprehensive scheduling software has all the tools you need and more, including POS integration with most major POS softwares. It also has great communication tools and useful reporting. This is our recommendation for the best restaurant scheduling software.
HotSchedules
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictHotSchedules was made for the restaurant and hospitality industry, so it is tailored towards restaurant needs. This tool is for more than just scheduling, however, and has tools for workforce management, inventory management, HR and payroll services, and analytics. This comprehensive tool sounds great, but pricing isn’t listed, so it may get expensive. There are also common complaints of a slightly difficult interface, but once you’ve gotten used to the app it shouldn’t be hard to use.
When I Work
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictWhen I Work is another great scheduling option for restaurants, especially smaller ones. The free plan doesn’t have all the features, but it does allow easy scheduling and communication for a single location up to 75 users. The mobile app is easy to use, so employees can request time off and swap schedules with ease. The app can also function as a time clock itself, so you don’t have to integrate another tool to let employees punch in.
Deputy
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictDeputy is another great tool for scheduling that restaurants should consider. They have most of the features offered by other tools, and there are plenty of third party integrations available to streamline all of your processes. The price per user model may not be the best option for larger restaurants with huge staffs, but other than the lack of a free plan, it is a fairly priced service.
Planday
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictPlanday is another great option for restaurants that need scheduling assistance. This software is easy to use, mobile friendly, and has other great features like a geo-fenced time clock included (although this costs $1 more per user per month). Planday is missing the break management that other platforms have, but this may not be a dealbreaker depending on your business.
Push Operations
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictPush Operations is another scheduling software that was made with restaurants in mind. This software does more than just scheduling, however, and acts as a full labor management platform. It handles HR functions like hiring and onboarding, scheduling, payroll, and works as a time clock. With accounting and POS integration options, you can streamline your business on this platform. The pricing is not available without sign up, however, and some users complained of a glitchy app.
Harri
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
VerdictHarri is another restaurant scheduling software that does much more, acting as a full workforce management platform. This restaurant scheduling app has pre-hire and post-hire tools, so it handles almost all aspects of labor management. It has cool features like a facial recognition time clock. The app that functions like a social network, where you can post a news feed of info for your employees as well as share schedules, request swaps or time off, and more. The price is not available on their website, however, and some customers complained of glitches and less than ideal customer support.
How To Choose a Scheduling Software for Your Restaurant
Choosing an employee scheduling software can be difficult – it can be hard to understand how they work, the benefits of each, and which one will best fit your restaurant and your staff needs. There are certain features to look at when shopping for a restaurant scheduling app. Consider the following factors before committing to one software.
Price
Restaurant businesses often have smaller profit margins compared to other businesses, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. If you’re opening a new restaurant and just creating a budget, figure out how much you can afford to spend on scheduling software. If you already have a restaurant but want to make it easier to create schedules, figure out how much wiggle room you have for this new piece of technology. Most restaurant scheduling softwares are priced either by a flat monthly fee or a cost per user. Depending on the features you’re looking for and what your restaurant needs, you may be willing to pay extra for a higher end scheduling app. Always consider your bottom line when making a big decision for your restaurant, and choose the best scheduling software for your budget.
Shift Scheduling Capabilities
You’ll want software that makes it easy to create shift-based schedules. Our recommendations are easy to use, so creating a schedule won’t be such a hassle. The best scheduling software for restaurants also makes it easy to add in employee availability and leave to avoid conflicts.
Communication
How does the scheduling app communicate with employees and employers? Some restaurant scheduling tools will send employees their schedule right though the app, or they may have messaging options to ask about getting coverage for a shift. A scheduling software may even be able to send shift reminders to ensure employees arrive on time and don’t forget about shifts. Consider how communication works through your chosen scheduling software.
Mobile Friendliness
Is your scheduling app mobile friendly? The best scheduling softwares make it easy to view or even change schedules from a mobile device. Some scheduling apps are just that – apps where everything can be done from a smartphone.
Time Clock Functionality
Most shift scheduling tools can also act as a time clock, allowing employees to punch in and out to track their hours at work. This ensures that staff is arriving on time and sticking to their assigned schedules, and it makes the software useful for both purposes. Time clock capabilities make it so that your scheduling software also helps manage and track payroll.
Integration with Other Tools
Aside from time clocking, other tools can often be integrated with a restaurant scheduling software. A common integration is with your POS system. Point of sale integration can help improve reporting by including more factors, like staff costs, sales, and more. Shared data can help you learn more about how your restaurant is operating.
Final Thoughts
Use these restaurant schedule tools to streamline the scheduling process at your restaurant! Don’t stress over complicated schedules anymore – these scheduling software options make it easy to create a schedule that works for everyone. The post Best Scheduling Software for Restaurants: Restaurant Scheduling Apps for 2020 appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-restaurant-scheduling-software/via Blogger Best Scheduling Software for Restaurants: Restaurant Scheduling Apps for 2020
Back to Blog
Best Pizza in Philadelphia: Where To Get Pizza in Philly in 2020
Philadelphia may not be known for its pizza, but there are plenty of great pizzerias serving up slices all over the city. Whether you’re new to Philadelphia, visiting, or just need advice on where to find the best pizza in your neighborhood, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the best pizza in Philadelphia. Find the closest pizza shop near you or work your way through the whole list for a fun pizza tour! Best Pizza in Philly: Top 10 Pizza Shops in Philadelphia
Tacconelli’s PizzeriaPort Richmond 2604 East Somerset St
Tacconelli’s has been around for quite some time, but it’s been a well kept secret in Port Richmond. Open since 1946, Tacconelli’s is known for its tomato pie. It has become so popular that they recommend reserving your dough in advance. Tacconelli’s is BYOB and cash only.
Angelo’s PizzeriaBella Vista 736 S 9th St
Angelo’s Pizzeria was famous in Haddonfield, New Jersey before closing up shop there and moving to South Philly. Now, Angelo’s has a cult following in Bella Vista, near Philadelphia’s Italian Market. Angelo’s is famous for their dough, which is long-fermented to perfection. This popular pizza shop is closed on Monday and Tuesday, and they have no phone number so you’ll have to go order in person.
Pizzeria BeddiaFishtown 1313 N. Lee St
Pizzeria Beddia was named the best pizza in the US a few years ago, and it’s easily one of the best pizza places in Philly. The dough is expertly charred for crunch, and they feature creative toppings. Pizzeria Beddia is a full service restaurant, but they do offer takeout Monday-Thursday. They also have a hoagie room for a two hour pizza and hoagie Omakase experience.
Circles + SquaresKensington 2513 Tulip St
Circles + Squares is named after the different shapes their pizza is offered in: thin crust circular pizzas or Detroit-style square pies with a thicker, chewier texture. They offer various toppings, and each pizza is essentially a build-your-own experience. Customers choose between a circle or square pizza, red, cheese, or white, and then add toppings as they see fit.
RioneRittenhouse 102 S 21st St
Rione serves up classic, Roman style pizza – which makes sense, since the owner is a transplant from Rome. They sell pizza al taglio (by the cut) in rectangles cut on the spot. The dough rises for 72 hours, creating a light, airy crust. Produce is bought locally for fresh and seasonal flavors, and others are imported right from Italy.
Pizza BrainFishtown 2313 Frankford Ave
Pizza Brain is another Fishtown pizza shop that makes the best Philadelphia pizza list. It’s also the world’s first pizza museum, with pizza artifacts covering the walls. Pizza Brain features quirky pizza flavors on a thin crust. The pizzas are unusually named, like the Felix Hupert or Wendy Wentworth. They also offer vegan pizza options.
La Rosa PizzaSouth Philly 2106 S Broad St
La Rosa Pizza serves up square pies in South Philly, a simple pizza joint without any bells and whistles. They serve traditional thick crust pizza in a classic, unassuming pizza shop on Broad street. Aside from standard flavors, they are also famous for a potato and rosemary pie.
Blackbird PizzeriaNorthern Liberties 614 N 2nd St
Plenty of pizza shops offer vegan options, but Blackbird Pizzeria is an entirely vegan operation. They sell pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, salads, and sides, all with vegan ingredients. Vegan pizza toppings include seitan, garlic, tofu, and plenty of veggies. While everything at Blackbird Pizza is vegan, it’s a great pick for plant-based diets and meat eaters alike.
PitrucoUniversity City 3401 Walnut St
Pitruco began by making wood-fired pizzas in a food truck before moving to a brick and mortar location in University City, in Franklin’s Table food hall. They still operate their food truck as well, so they may pop up in a location near you. At both the truck and the University City location, Pitruco serves popular, made-to-order Neapolitan pies with a classic crust and plenty of topping options.
Lorenzo & SonsSouth Street Headhouse District 305 South Street
It’s hard to talk about famous Philly pizzas without mentioning Lorenzo and Sons. If you’re looking for a slice of pizza bigger than your head, this is the place to go. While it’s probably not the best pizza in Philly, it is a classic Philadelphia restaurant with huge, gooey slices of pizza. After a night out on South Street, waiting in line for a slice at Lorenzo’s is practically a rite of passage.
Final ThoughtsWhile New Yorkers will protest, Philadelphia has some of the best pizza in the country. Check out the best pizza in Philadelphia or do a tasting tour to find your favorites. Did we forget someone? Let us know your favorite Philadelphia pizza in the comments! If you need help with marketing for your pizza restaurant, contact Restaurant Clicks today! The post Best Pizza in Philadelphia: Where To Get Pizza in Philly in 2020 appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-pizza-in-philadelphia/via Blogger Best Pizza in Philadelphia: Where To Get Pizza in Philly in 2020
Back to Blog
Best Food Delivery Services for Restaurants in 2020
Ordering food in is more popular than ever, and with food delivery apps, it’s easier than ever. The market is saturated with food delivery services that offer online ordering platforms and delivery right to your door, with abundant restaurants available online. If your restaurant does not deliver, you may be missing out on sales. Choosing a restaurant delivery service can be difficult however. Each charges fees to both the customers and the restaurant, so it’s important to find a food delivery app that will benefit your restaurant’s business and bring in more customers and income. If you’re looking for a third party delivery service for your restaurant, look no further. We’ve reviewed the most popular food delivery apps available today. Best Food Delivery Apps for Restaurants
DoorDash
DoorDash has surpassed competitors, becoming the most popular food delivery app according to Fortune Magazine. As of 2019, DoorDash had the largest share of the market at 27.6%. DoorDash is a great choice for restaurants and consumers, with low fees and a wide range of locations. DoorDash is available in all 50 states and over 800 US cities. The company takes a commission of about 20% of the restaurant’s order, which is on the lower end of third party delivery services. The fees for customers are on the lower end as well, although they vary by restaurant. DoorDash is also flexible in terms of how restaurants receive orders; they’ll send orders through your restaurant’s preferred method, so it can easily fit with your POS technology. The DoorDash app is very user-friendly and easy to use, so customers have no problem placing orders. The app has GPS tracking, status updates for orders, and customer service. Frequent users can sign up for a DashPass, which gives them free delivery and lower service fees for only $10 a month. DoorDash is one of the best options for restaurants in need of a delivery service for various reasons. First, it has the largest share of the market and a wide range of locations, so plenty of customers can find you on DoorDash. Second, it has low commission fees for restaurants and low service fees for customers. The app is also a plus. If you’re looking for a restaurant delivery service, consider DoorDash. Availability: All 50 states, 900 US cities Commission Fees: ~20% Service Fees: Vary, but lower end
Caviar
Caviar has set itself apart from other food delivery apps as an upscale service, as the name suggests. There are fewer restaurants on Caviar, and some estimates put their market share at only 3% compared to other third party delivery services. Rather than compete with bigger names, however, Caviar has created its own niche of upscale food delivery. Caviar is more selective than other food delivery apps in terms of restaurants it features, drivers, and locations. It is only available in 11 major cities, so it is not an option for many restaurants. The restaurants it does feature are typically high end with more expensive food costs. Customer spending average is significantly higher on Caviar. The commission cost is about 25%, slightly higher than DoorDash but lower than many others. The low commission paired with more expensive food bills is a plus for restaurants that meet Caviar’s criteria. The fees for customers are mid-range, about the same as any other delivery app. The Caviar app is easy to use, with GPS tracking on orders and an accessible customer service line. Caviar is affiliated with Square POS, so it connects directly to this system when sending orders to restaurants. If your restaurant already uses Square, this makes things even easier. For upscale restaurants looking to get into delivery, Caviar is a great option provided you are in one of their service areas. Availability: 11 major cities Commission Fees: ~25% Service Fees: Vary based on restaurant – typically $2 to $8
GrubHub/Seamless
Grubhub was the original online food delivery service, and used to hold the largest share of the market. Grubhub also owns Seamless, and the two share almost the exact same app. Grubhub also bought out other services like Eat24, Foodler, and OrderUp. Grubhub and Seamless together operate in over 2700 US cities, as buying all of those smaller delivery services has widened its range. They have a market share of about 26.9% as of 2019, just behind DoorDash, although they used to have 33%. Grubhub is partnered with a huge number of restaurants and has an estimated 14.5 million users. Grubhub works with so many different restaurants that their commission for restaurants has a wide range – anywhere from 15 to 30%. While 15% is one of the cheapest options for restaurants, 30% is on the higher end. The customer fees on Grubhub range as well from low end to expensive, although these are often countered by delivery deals, discounts, and other perks. One benefit of Grubhub is that they will work with a restaurant’s existing delivery drivers, so you can continue to use drivers you have on staff. They also offer POS integration, so it’s easy for restaurants to receive orders. Another plus is that they can integrate an online order link on your website, so it’s easy for customers on your site to order. The app is also very easy to use. Availability: All 50 states, over 2700 cities Commission Fees: 15-30% Service Fees: Mid-range, depend on restaurant and service area
Postmates
Postmates is a smaller delivery service, but it has great features and many happy customers. As of 2019, Postmates is available in most states and 1500 cities, but has about 12% of the delivery market. This means there are fewer customers using Postmates that will find and order from your restaurant on the platform. The Postmates app is easy to use, and often has discounts offered. The Party section allows users to share a driver with other users in their area ordering from certain restaurants at the same time. This brings in a lot of repeat customers on the food delivery app. Commission costs on Postmates are on the higher end for restaurants at about 30%. This can be a steep price to pay, which is why many restaurants opt for one of the cheaper options. The fees for customers range from very affordable to expensive, so it can be hard to gauge what customers will pay as well. Postmates does offer an unlimited plan for $10 a month or $100 a year that comes with free delivery on all orders over $15, plus other perks like no surge pricing. For restaurants, however, the 30% commission and lower market share makes Postmates a less ideal partner. Availability: All 50 states, over 1500 cities Commission Fees: ~30% Service Fees: Vary, depends on restaurant and service area
UberEats
UberEats is an extension of the rideshare app that delivers food. Because Uber is a widely used service, UberEats has access to a large fleet of drivers and plenty of customers. UberEats is available in over 500 cities in the US and around the world as well, and considering the success of Uber rides, it will likely grow. UberEats pulls about 25% of the market share. There are some benefits of using UberEats, including its decent share of the market and plenty of users. The app is very easy to use, and there are plenty of restaurants partnered. It has GPS tracking for orders and often faster delivery times than some others due to the large number of Uber drivers. There are some drawbacks to using UberEats, however. The drivers are not trained as food delivery drivers, but are rideshare partners who can also pick up food. While food delivery doesn’t require any difficult skills, some UberEats drivers may have mishaps with food. UberEats customer service can be difficult to get ahold of and may have trouble connecting with drivers. The other main drawback for restaurants is that partners of UberEats report at 30-40% commission from each bill. This is a hefty percentage for restaurants to sacrifice, so if there is another food delivery service operating in your area, it may be a better option than UberEats. Availability: All 50 states, over 500 cities Commission Fees: ~30-40% Service Fees: Vary, but on the higher end depending on restaurant and location
DIY Delivery Services
It is worthwhile to consider hiring your own delivery drivers for your restaurant, especially if you get a lot of to-go orders. There are costs to hiring extra staff for delivery, but depending on the third party delivery services in your area, it may be more cost effective to handle deliveries internally. If you do choose to deliver through your own service, there are some costs to consider. You’ll have to hire extra staff to work as delivery drivers, and those costs may also include insurance premiums, gas compensation, and so on. Another expense to consider is the cost of online ordering. Many customers today prefer ordering on an online platform as opposed to calling on the phone, so you may want to build an online ordering system on your website. This can be costly, as you’ll need to hire a developer to make it all happen. The benefit of a DIY delivery service for your restaurant is that you won’t lose any money that the food delivery apps take. To counteract the cost of hiring delivery drivers, some restaurants simply tack on their own delivery fee. If your restaurant has lots of takeout orders, hiring your own delivery drivers may be the better move for your business.
How To Choose a Restaurant Delivery Service
There are plenty of options out there today for food delivery – we listed the top competitors, but others exist. Choosing the best one for your restaurant can be confusing, as you want to make the choice that is best for your restaurant’s profit margins. Look for these factors when choosing a food delivery app partnership.
Availability in Your Location
The first factor to look at to weed out delivery services is availability in your specific location. Not all food delivery apps operate in every city, so you can easily cross off a few by seeing if they deliver in your area. Restaurants in major cities will have plenty of options to choose from, while less populated areas may have fewer food delivery options.
Popularity with Customers
Aside from just availability, you should also look for information regarding their popularity in your area. If one delivery app is available but doesn’t have many users, it won’t really help your restaurant business. You can gauge popularity by doing some research online, asking customers what their preferred delivery app is, or talking to a company rep about their stats in your area. You can also sign up as a customer for various apps to gauge what restaurants are available and which seems the most popular.
Restaurant and Customer Fees
How do fees work on each delivery app? Most charge a service fee to customers as well as a percentage of the bill from the restaurant. The commission rates for each service range from 15-40% of the bill – which comes out of your restaurant’s pockets.
Profit Margins
Consider what rate you can afford to pay the delivery services without losing money. If you only make a 20% profit on your food, a delivery app with a 30% commission fee will not make sense for you. Look at your profit margins and consider the costs before partnering with a food delivery app.
Customer Relationships
You should also consider how your customers will enjoy each app. Using the most popular one in your area or with your customers is a step in the right direction, but you should really consider how your customers order. If a delivery driver does a bad job and the order gets cold or otherwise messed up, it will reflect on your restaurant. Even though the driver is not a staff member, most customers will likely blame the restaurant as well as the delivery service. Partner with a quality delivery service to ensure that food is handled properly and customers are happy.
Final Thoughts
If your restaurant needs a delivery service, we’ve listed the best options for you to pick from. While third party online food delivery can be costly, it can also take some processes of your restaurant’s plate. Consider what works best for your restaurant and reach new customers with one of the best food delivery services. The post Best Food Delivery Services for Restaurants in 2020 appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-food-delivery-services-for-restaurants/via Blogger Best Food Delivery Services for Restaurants in 2020
Back to Blog
Bottomless Mimosa Brunch at Miller’s Rest in Nob Hill
Miller’s Rest is serving up a classic comfort food brunch along with bottomless mimosas in the Nob Hill area of San Francisco. This cozy bar and restaurant is bringing back the basics: great food, great hospitality, and a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Visit Miller’s Rest this weekend for a delicious brunch washed down with bottomless mimosas or other brunch cocktails, offered every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Brunch at Miller’s Rest
There are plenty of reasons to love brunch at Miller’s Rest. The restaurant has a uniquely comforting aesthetic, with meals that taste homemade and friendly service to make you feel at home. Miller’s Rest was inspired by owner Mark Miller’s family’s lake cabin from his childhood, also named Miller’s Rest. The restaurant embodies a nostalgia for simpler times spent at the family cabin with food and family around. The owner describes the food at Miller’s rest as “American comfort food, but modernized for today’s palate.” The brunch menu features starters like biscuits and gravy, made fresh daily, or Grandma Pearl’s caramel rolls, served warm. When asked about favorite menu items, Mark Miller mentioned that the shrimp and grits are “really excellent” and tend to be a crowd favorite, as well as the chicken and gravy – made with all natural chicken and homemade peppercorn gravy, and served up with home fries and a fresh buttermilk biscuit.
The hearty menu at Miller’s Rest offers a midwest flair, and they even have a midwest breakfast on the menu (two eggs, chicken apple sausage, hickory bacon, and home fries). The restaurant has lighter options as well, however, as well as classic San Francisco staples like their chilaquiles – another customer favorite. $20 Bottomless MimosasWash down a delicious and filling meal with your choice of brunch cocktails. Miller’s Rest offers a $20 bottomless mimosa special for brunch, but there are plenty of other exciting cocktails to choose from. They serve the classic bloody Mary (with bacon, of course), as well as other cocktails like an aperol spritz, amargo, michelada, and more.
Coffee is available as well, or coffee lovers can enjoy a coffee based cocktail like a breakfast stout or their Great Lakes iced coffee, made with Mr. Black coffee liquor, coconut, Black Strap rum, and cinnamon. Non-alcoholic options include espresso drinks, housemade sodas, or assorted fruit juices. About Miller’s Rest
Miller’s Rest opened its doors in 2017 with hopes of becoming a warm and comforting getaway from busy life, “where the problems and stress of city life melt away”. This approachable, welcoming atmosphere mirrors that of Miller’s childhood lake cabin. The cabin was built by his father over three years, resulting in the name “Miller’s Rest” since the family could finally relax and enjoy their time together on the lake. Mark Miller reminisces that food was a big part of life at the cabin, with mom cooking in the kitchen and the family gathering together at meal times. “Translating that to the restaurant was fairly natural,” he says, and much of the food at Miller’s Rest is inspired by family recipes passed down over the years. Mark and his wife Teri now run the restaurant together, hoping to provide the same kind of comfort for their customers. Miller’s Rest is open daily for lunch and dinner, and serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 4:00. Call or visit online to make a reservation today. The post Bottomless Mimosa Brunch at Miller’s Rest in Nob Hill appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/millers-rest-brunch/via Blogger Bottomless Mimosa Brunch at Miller’s Rest in Nob Hill
Back to Blog
New Client Announcement: HipCityVeg2/28/2020
New Client Announcement: HipCityVeg
Restaurant Clicks is proud to announce our newest client, HipCityVeg. HipCityVeg is an all vegan, plant-based restaurant, with four locations in Philadelphia, PA, two in the Philadelphia suburbs, and two in Washington, D.C. This health-conscious chain is dedicated to sustainable practices, both in their foods and other materials, which are compostable.
About HipCityVeg
HipCityVeg was opened in 2012 to bring delicious vegan food to the world. The fast-food inspired menu is made with fresh, organic, and often locally sourced ingredients. All ingredients are 100% organic and non-GMO. All food and packaging materials are compostable and recyclable, and their space and practices are also designed with sustainability in mind. HipCityVeg follows a green philosophy of “embracing healthy bodies, a healthy planet, and compassion for all living things” through vegan food and environmentally conscious practices. They believe that “what you eat should be a simple decision you feel good about,” serving up healthy, delicious vegan meals at all eight locations. The menu at HipCityVeg features vegan burgers, sandwiches, chick’n, salads, and more. They also offer frozen treats and smoothies, and currently two locations serve breakfast. HipCityVeg also offers catering, filling a much needed gap for vegan catering options. They make it easy to throw a “party with plants,” providing their vegan food as well as compostable packaging for an Earth-friendly event. The vegan fare from HipCityVeg is available at all nine locations or through online ordering service Caviar. They are open daily – hours vary by location. Find a HipCityVeg closest to you and visit today!
Welcome To Restaurant Clicks!
We’re excited to begin working with HipCityVeg on their digital marketing campaign. With such a strong brand and a health-conscious mission that they believe in, we are happy to help this restaurant grow! The team at Restaurant Clicks works with a wide range of restaurants. Check out our restaurant marketing plan or contact us today to learn more about our services. The post New Client Announcement: HipCityVeg appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/new-client-announcement-hipcityveg/via Blogger New Client Announcement: HipCityVeg
Back to Blog
Best Boozy Bottomless Brunch Spots in Philadelphia
Going out to brunch with your friends is a great way to celebrate life and unwind on the weekend. Whether it’s celebrating your new promotion, catching up with old friends, or relaxing on a Sunday afternoon, brunch is a great way to get out of the house and grab some quality food and drinks. Boozy brunch is even better, with specials on mimosas, bloody Mary’s, and more. Bottomless brunch in Philly is one of the most popular mealtimes for many restaurants. There are a lot of popular and trendy brunch spots in Philadelphia, so we’ve compiled a list of the best drink specials we could find in the city. From bottomless brunch specials, to exciting breakfast foods, to live music, Philadelphia has got it all. Best Boozy Brunch Specials in Philly
Bourbon & Branch705 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Bourbon & Branch is a combination music venue and restaurant located in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia. Their brunch menu is extensive, with a lot of different options to choose from. Green dots on the menu indicate which menu items are friendly for vegans, which even features a vegan version of “Chik’n & Waffles.” For $20 you get unlimited mimosas, and brunch is available from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Bourbon & Branch is a stylistically pleasing restaurant with a rich history, and with bottomless mimosas for $20, it’s one of the best brunch places in Philly.
Positano Coast212 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Located in Old City, Positano Coast is a classy Italian-themed brunch spot with a choice of unlimited drinks. Enjoy your afternoon with Italian seafood dishes like spicy calamari with pickled cherry peppers and goat cheese, or go for a traditional American brunch burger. While you eat, $20 gives you access to unlimited mimosas and sangria. Available 11:30 am – 3:00 pm Saturday and 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Sunday.
Moshulu401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
If you want to spend your brunch by the water, (or on the water), Moshulu could be a great option for you. Located along Penn’s Landing, Moshulu is a historic ship that is now being used as one of Philadelphia’s most unique dining experiences. Their brunch menu specializes mostly in American dishes like their veggie Benedict and Philly cheesesteak omelet. Moshulu offers an $18 bottomless brunch special that will get you a wide variety of bottomless drinks; Mimosas, Peach Bellinis, Kir Royals, or Poinsettias. Who doesn’t like drinking on a fancy boat? Brunch served from 11:00 am – 2:30 pm on Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 2:30 pm on Sundays.
JJ Bootleggers35 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
JJ Bootleggers is a moonshine-themed bar and restaurant in Old City, Philadelphia. They host a popular bottomless brunch special every Sunday, featuring classic brunch dishes like eggs benedict, build-your-own omelettes, and more exciting dishes like strawberry shortcake stuffed pancakes and banana foster french toast. JJ Bootleggers offers a $20 bottomless brunch that includes mimosas, blood Mary’s, and peach bellinis. Brunch is available every Sunday from 11 am – 3 pm.
Cuba Libre10 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When formulating your brunch plans, don’t forget about Cuba Libre. This restaurant has a wide variety of large and small Cuban dishes like pineapple guacamole and a Cuban take on chicken and waffles. Share a plate of empanadas with your friends and wash it down with their $5 brunch cocktails. Vegetarian options are also available for the non-carnivorous. Don’t miss out on boozy brunch in Philly at Cuba Libre this weekend, running from 10:30 am – 2:30 pm Saturday and Sunday.
Khyber Pass Pub56 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Khyber Pass Pub is a bar and restaurant located in Old City that specializes in New Orleans Cajun style cuisine. They feature live music regularly, so if you want to stick around after your beignets or the Shrimp & Tasso & Grits, you may be able to catch a show. Khyber Pass is a pub at heart, so if beer is your preference then they have a wide selection. Their $7 brunch cocktails include drinks such as “Death in the Afternoon,” “Creole Bloody Mary,” and “Corpse Reviver #2.” Grab brunch at Khyber Pass Pub between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Harper’s Garden31 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Located in Rittenhouse square, Harper’s Garden is an American style restaurant and bar that serves brunch on the weekends. Their menu is split into two parts, “Had a Great Night” and “Long Day Ahead”, which contain both healthy and not-so-healthy options. They also have a wide variety of brunch cocktails, including Harper’s Frappe and the Ghost of Mary. Their bottomless mimosa special runs for five and a half hours, from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy bottomless mimosas for $20 along with the purchase of an entree, or choose from various other brunch drinks.
Aqimero10 Avenue Of The Arts, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Aqimero is an upscale restaurant located in the Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia. If you’re planning on drinking, you may as well consider the “$50 Endless Brunch & Bubbles.” “Endless Bubbles” refers to the bottomless supply of Bellini, Mimosa, Kir Royale, and other drinks provided. As far as the food options, the endless brunch includes toasts, sweets, and their list of specialty brunch creations. Aqimero’s brunch hours run from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. What better way to spend your weekend afternoon than stuffing your face with smoked pork belly and champagne by the glass?
Urban Saloon2120 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
The Urban Saloon is a large sports bar located on Fairmount avenue. Their food choices range from breakfast nachos to their Monte Cristo Panini. It’s a large location for a sports bar, so it’s a good place to go if you’re trying to accommodate for a large brunch group. $20 will get you a bottle of champagne for you to concoct your own mimosas with. If you’re ever visiting the Eastern State Penitentiary, hop across the street and bring your friends to the Urban Saloon!
James Restaurant and Bar1835 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
James, located in Western Center City, is another modern American tavern that serves up brunch every weekend. The locally inspired menu is a Philly favorite, and brunch is no different. Their brunch menu features items like The Philly Benny, a Philadelphia-inspired eggs benedict, roast pork hash, and much more. Brunch cocktails are also on special, so you can enjoy $8 mimosas and $10 bloody Mary’s complete with bacon, celery, and the works.
Red Owl Tavern433 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
The Red Owl Tavern is a trendy restaurant tucked inside of a historic tavern in Old City. They pride themselves in being a modern-styled restaurant with old school comforts. Their menu has traditional breakfast foods, southern comfort foods, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. This trendy restaurant is on the pricier side of things for a brunch menu, and their cocktails are no exception, but if the price point isn’t an issue we highly recommend trying out this Philly brunch spot. They have unique brunch cocktails at $14 a drink. Brunch is available at the Red Owl Tavern from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Final ThoughtsCheck out the best bottomless brunch specials in Philly and book a reservation for the upcoming weekend! If you own a brunch restaurant in Philadelphia and think you should be on the list, contact us at Restaurant Clicks today. The post Best Boozy Bottomless Brunch Spots in Philadelphia appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/best-boozy-bottomless-brunch-philadelphia/via Blogger Best Boozy Bottomless Brunch Spots in Philadelphia
Back to Blog
How To Host a Successful Industry Night2/24/2020
How To Host a Successful Industry Night
If you’re looking for a way to bring more guests into your restaurant and make ties within the local restaurant industry, an industry night is a great way to do so. Hosting a service industry night can transform a typically quiet night into a huge win for your business, and there are plenty of other benefits. Read on to learn more about what industry night is and why your restaurant should host one! What is Industry Night?
Industry night is a special night hosted by a restaurant that offers deals and discounts to local restaurant industry workers. Servers, hosts, chefs, bartenders, and other restaurant staff can attend industry night to take a break from serving and enjoy special deals. Often, bars hosting industry night will stay open past normal hours for service industry workers getting off their shifts late. Industry nights are often held on Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday nights – nights that traditionally aren’t as busy, so you can turn a slow night into a profitable one, even with discounts. These nights also come after the busy weekend rush, when most industry workers need to unwind.
Why Should You Host a Service Industry Night?
Hosting an industry night is a big win for restaurants. There are plenty of reasons to host a service industry night – it brings in revenue, forms relationships with other businesses and workers in your community, and more.
Bring in Customers on a Slow Night
Industry night is often held on a slow night. This means that you can turn a traditionally dead, low profit night at your restaurant into a successful night. Even when offering significant discounts, you’ll likely profit more by hosting industry night on a slow Monday as opposed to having a slow trickle of full-paying customers.
Build a Loyal Customer Base
Not only will industry night bring customers and revenue to your restaurant on that night, but it’s more likely to build a loyal base of industry customers. If you host a regular industry night monthly, those who come are likely to come back again. If they had a great time or really enjoyed your food, they may even come back as paying customers. Industry workers will appreciate restaurants that hold industry nights to give back to workers, so they’re likely to become regulars (when they aren’t working themselves, anyway).
Improve Relationships in Your Community
Hosting an industry night helps to build relationships with other restaurants in your community. While other restaurants may be your competition, they are also neighbors, and it’s good to form a positive relationship. In the future, you may be able to use that connection to other businesses to host events together, ask for advice, and so on. Forging ties in your local business community is always a good thing. Hosting an industry night will allow other restaurant businesses to get to know you and your restaurant, which can’t hurt.
Benefits Your Staff
Service industry workers know what a pain customers can be at times. That means that they are typically great customers themselves, and good tippers since they know how important tips are to servers. Working an industry night will benefit your staff as well, as they can expect polite customers and great tips. Industry night can turn a slow night into a busy one, which can be both good and bad for your staff. While they might have enjoyed a calmer night, they’ll also benefit from more tables and more tips by the end of the night. Back of house staff won’t enjoy the same tips, however, so you may want to consider thanking the rest of the staff with a small bonus, a share of the tips, or some other way to say “thanks” for their help in hosting a successful event for your business.
Word of Mouth for Your Restaurant
Finally, hosting an industry night can generate great buzz for your restaurant. Happy service industry workers can spread the news afterwards, whether it’s inviting other industry friends to your next event, or just telling friends and family that they enjoyed your restaurant. Forging ties with others in your industry can generate great word of mouth for your restaurant, helping your business in the long run.
Planning an Industry Night at Your Restaurant
With all the benefits and little to no drawbacks for hosting an industry night, it’s time to start planning one for your restaurant! Hosting an industry night is relatively simple – all your really have to do is plan dates, figure out what special promotions you’ll offer to industry workers, and spread the word.
Set Dates
Pick a date and time for your restaurant’s industry night. As previously mentioned, many industry nights fall on a Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday, but there’s no definite rule about when you can host one. Pick a night that works for your restaurant, and ideally one that is typically slow. That way, you can bring in more industry customers without displacing or overcrowding your normal customers. Make sure that you have ample staff for the date that you choose; if you’re expecting a larger crowd, you may need to schedule more servers than your usual slow Monday night. You should prep the staff for this night in terms of schedules but also discounts and expectations. If you’re staying open after hours to cater to late night industry workers, make sure your staff is aware in advance.
Offer Discounts
The point of industry night is that you offer some special incentive to the workers that come, usually in the form of discounts. It is up to you what discounts you offer, and it will depend on your restaurant’s offerings and profit margins. The better the promotion, the more people will be enticed to come out. Some restaurants offer as much as a 50% discount on certain menu items. You could offer a percentage off their entire bill, half off drinks, or discount specific menu items or sections of your menu, like appetizers. Be sure to use a food cost calculator to ensure that you don’t over-discount and cost your business money.
Try Out Specials
Industry night is a great time to test promotions or specials. If you’re considering adding a new menu item, you can test it out at a discount on industry night! Service industry workers have experience and will be honest about what they liked, especially if you ask for feedback directly. This is also a great opportunity to see how your promotions work and how profitable they are. For example, if you’re considering promoting a new happy hour special with $5 well drinks, you could test it on industry night and see how it affects your bottom line.
Ask for Proof of Work
Industry night is supposed to be for service industry workers exclusively, but it’s not unheard of for others to try to sneak in to reap the specials. Many restaurants ask for proof of employment – whether it’s an ID card, a pay stub, or some other form of proof that they work in the restaurant or hospitality industry.
Offer Entertainment
Discounts and specials are often enough to drive successful industry nights, but you can consider bringing in some kind of entertainment as well. If you begin hosting regular industry nights, you can ask your guests what they’d be interested in. This is a chance for service workers to let loose, so it may be even more fun for them to perform on their own. Consider karaoke or open mic nights for industry night to add more fun and draw a larger crowd.
Promote Your Industry Night
Finally, once you have everything planned, it’s time to promote your industry night! Visit local restaurants with flyers, post on social media, or use word of mouth to spread the word about your restaurant’s industry night. Make sure that local servers and other staff know that they are welcome! Once you’ve hosted one industry night, it can be easier to draw a crowd again. You could host it on the first Sunday of every month, or set up some similar schedule to make it easy to remember. You can also ask for emails from those who visit to invite them back, or encourage them to follow your social media channels to learn about the next event.
Final Thoughts
Service industry night is a great idea for both new and established restaurants. If you’re looking to draw a new crowd of customers and increase revenue on a slow night, industry night is the perfect solution. Be sure to thoroughly plan and promote your industry night to draw in service workers in your local area! The post How To Host a Successful Industry Night appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/how-to-host-industry-night/via Blogger How To Host a Successful Industry Night
Back to Blog
How Much Does It Cost To Open a Restaurant? 2020 Restaurant Startup Costs
Being a restaurant owner is hard work, but it’s rewarding. If you’re considering getting into the industry, there’s one big question you’re probably wondering: How much is this going to cost? Restaurant startup costs can be seriously expensive, which is an obstacle to many would-be restaurant owners. The most difficult parts of being a restaurant owner are the beginning phases of opening your restaurant. In this stage you have to see what draws in customers, where you can cut expenses, how to improve the customer experience without spending money, and so on. So, how much does it cost to open a restaurant? Let’s look at the most common costs restaurant owners must face. Restaurant Startup Costs
Simply put, the median cost to open a restaurant is around $375,000. That’s a good estimate to give you an idea of what your price range should be, but by no means is that number set in stone. Some estimates say it costs about $3000 per seat in your restaurant, taking all things into account. There are many factors that go into starting a restaurant, and we’ve listed some to help you get started. Location is also a major factor, as it will affect all of your prices and especially the cost of leasing a commercial space. Without factoring in location-based changes in cost, let’s look at what you need to open a restaurant.
Restaurant Startup Checklist
The following are the key factors to consider when making your restaurant startup cost breakdown.
Food & Beverages
One of the biggest recurring costs on this list is food and beverage. The success of your restaurant is determined largely by the food you sell, and more importantly, how profitable it is to sell that food. A good rule of thumb to follow when considering your menu items is the rule of thirds. This means simply that the cost of your food’s raw materials should be about one third of the sale price. This is to help run a profitable operation, but it’s not a law set in stone. Menu items like potatoes (in all forms) and sodas are meant to be served alongside main dishes, and they both see very high profit margins. Cups of soda will only cost a few cents each from a soda machine, but are sold for a couple of dollars. On the other end of the spectrum, selling a steak at a high end restaurant might not be as profitable, but is still an essential menu item. In this case, the rest of the profits are made up by other menu items like wines or side dishes. Taking that into consideration, your food expenses should take up about 28%-35% of money brought in from sales. When you’re just starting out, contact different food suppliers to test out quality and budgets, and use thorough planning to figure out the food and beverage costs you’ll face at the beginning and when restocking.
Labor
In order to keep operations smooth and customers happy, you’ll want to keep your employees happy. Many people treat working at a restaurant as a part time job. Therefor,e people are more likely to quit a restaurant job than most other jobs. Training employees costs money, and loyal employees are more productive. In addition, keeping a loyal rotation of workers makes scheduling easier. It’s also important not to over-hire employees in the beginning stages of the business. This can create frustration, and add to your overhead expenses. The final thing to consider is what kind of salary you want to make. As mentioned previously, restaurant owners will take a reduced salary in the early years so that their business will get a good head start. This can help you establish yourself and gain forward momentum as you enter the industry. That being said, similar to food expenses, labor expenses should take roughly one third of your total sales. Budget for this cost in the beginning, taking into consideration the hours it will take to effectively train an all-new staff.
Rent
Rent is another large recurring expense you’ll run into. This cost, like the previous ones, can vary extremely depending on some key factors. The most important factors when considering rent are location, size, and type of business. Clearly choosing a location in Times Square is going to cost more than one in a small town in Wisconsin. That being said, paying for these high traffic locations could play out for big profit in the long run. It can be equally as smart, however, to fill a hole in a smaller market. Ask yourself if you want to lead a high-risk high-reward big city business, a low-risk reliable small market business, or somewhere in between. The next factor is size. Before taxes, rent in Manhattan averages at $120 per square foot. That number is reduced to less than half when considering locations in LA. Smaller towns and cities are harder to estimate, but the size of your restaurant should suit your restaurant’s style. If your dream is to open a diner, you’ll want to ensure that you can sit as many customers as possible without making them feel crowded, or wasting space. Finally, the type of business you want to run will determine what kind of space you want to obtain. If you want to run a small food takeout food operation but lack the resources and money to rent a building, consider managing a food truck. Depending on the location (and weather), food trucks can be an extremely profitable way to go about your business. Different types of food service businesses will also require a different space in terms of equipment. A full service restaurant will likely need a larger kitchen with room for more kitchen equipment. A coffee shop may only need the space behind the counter and a space for dishes. Opening a coffee shop? Food truck? Bar? Casual sit down? Hibachi? Takeout? Depending on your budget and aspirations, these are drastically different businesses to run. Costs for rent will vary. One final note: depending on the space you rent, you may also have to pay for remodeling or renovations to fit your restaurant needs. If the space you find isn’t to your specifications, consider remodeling costs along with rent.
Equipment and Maintenance
Restaurants need equipment – almost all businesses do to some degree. Depending on the style of your restaurant and the cuisine served, you’ll need different types of equipment at different costs. A full-service restaurant will need a big kitchen with plenty of refrigerator and freezer space, ovens, stoves, dishwashers, and other kitchen equipment. Commercial kitchen equipment can be expensive, so it may be wise to buy used. If you rent a former restaurant, it may come with some equipment, but you’ll need to make sure it’s in proper working order. Maintenance costs in general should be factored in, whether you buy new or used kitchen equipment. As we said, different restaurants will need different equipment. A coffee shop may only need a few high end coffee and espresso machines, while a pizza shop may need a large brick oven pizza. Other, less expensive equipment should be considered as well, like pots and pans for cooking, storage containers, and more. On the front end of the restaurant, you’ll also need items like dishes, cups, cutlery, furniture, and more. When starting out a restaurant, your budget should even consider costs like decor for the restaurant.
Technology
There’s a lot of technology out there to make your job as a restaurant owner easier, and more profitable. Point of Sale (POS) system technology is becoming increasingly popular, and with good reason. This is the software that people use to run their computerized registers. They automatically keep track of sales throughout the day, and will even keep track of inventory and sales trends. In the long term, this technology is essential, but it might be worth holding off in the early stages. If you’re tight on money from the start, cutting software costs that aren’t 100% necessary can be a good way to find some wiggle room in your budget. That being said, restaurant POS systems will see a lot of use in the long term, and will be worth investing in once you’re on your feet. They can save you a lot of time and money. There are also restaurant reservation systems to consider, table management software, waitlists, and more. Some software can encompass all of these tools – but usually at a high price.
Marketing
Marketing is another cost that will vary depending on how much you choose to invest in it. If you know you have the budget for it, hiring a team to promote your restaurant can be a reliable, mess-free way to handle that end of things. Our restaurant marketing plan is free here on Restaurant Clicks, but often implementing a full marketing campaign is too time-consuming for restaurant owners. That being said, if your budget is tight, there are ways to get your name out there without breaking the bank. Make sure your restaurant’s website is easily searchable on Google, and that you can clearly navigate to your restaurant’s menu, location, phone number, and hours of operation. Once all of these things are all set up, you can start promoting your restaurant digitally. Creating a social media presence, or buying digital ad space are great ways to do this. Word of mouth recommendations can go a long way as well. People run into thousands of ads on a daily basis, and don’t pay much attention when passing one by. However, people are much more likely to visit a restaurant after getting a recommendation from a friend. This is why customer service is important, because in the long term building a positive reputation for your business will be what helps you draw in more customers. It’s also why you want to make sure you have positive ratings on restaurant review sites. Utilities & Bills
The price of utilities is often what takes restaurant owners by surprise. It’s important to do your research before signing with what seems to be the most simple option. If you’re moving into a previously owned building, some utility companies will even make you pay the previous owner’s debt before you can begin a new service in that building. As a restaurant owner, you’re going to be consuming a lot of electricity, water, heating, and even internet and cable. Clearly these are all dependent on the size and traffic of your restaurant, but don’t forget to factor in about $1000-$2500 for an average sized restaurant.
Paperwork & Licensing Costs
Here’s the fun part, licensing and permits! You’d be surprised how many different licenses are necessary to start a restaurant. We’ve compiled a list of the important paperwork you’ll need to consider.
*optional/varies in requirement by state Something to consider when opening your business is whether or not you decide to sell alcohol. If your restaurant is suited for it, alcohol is a product that sees high profit margins. Liquor license requirements vary from state to state, so check out your state’s requirements before you consider. Liquor license costs will also vary depending on where you live. They can be as cheap as $300, and as expensive as $10,000. Learn more about obtaining a liquor license in your state well in advance of your restaurant opening. Additionally, many of these permits are necessary in some states, but not in others. Restaurant licensing can be a confusing process, which is why many restaurateurs work with attorneys to help them through the process. An attorney would be an added cost, but may be worthwhile to navigate all the paperwork. Most of these licenses also have fees that you’ll have to budget for.
Hidden Costs & Losses
In a perfect world, you’ll buy the exact amount of inventory you need every time, not any more or less. However, this is entirely impossible. There are a lot of hidden costs involved with owning a restaurant. Here are a few unexpected expenses that can be easy to forget about.
Optimizing Your Budget
Now that you have some idea as to how you want to run your business and how much it will cost, it’s time to look at some ways you could save money. It can be easier than you think, but it’s important to cut budgets in the right places. Cutting costs by buying lower quality food is never the answer – customers will notice and it will only hurt your business in the long run. Optimize your budget through smart methods, like the following:
Table Turnover
Make sure that when your restaurant is busy, a steady flow of customers are being seated. The profit you make as a restaurant owner depends on how many guests you seat, so keeping things moving smoothly is a big part of the process. When training your waiting staff, make sure they don’t let people linger at tables for too long. That being said, make sure that you give them enough time that they also feel welcome. Pressuring people or making them feel rushed takes away from their customer experience, which will hurt your reputation. As mentioned previously, word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising you can get, as it’s free and highly effective. This is why it’s so important to take every means to satisfy the customer, within reason. Find a healthy middle ground for your staff to follow so that your customers are satisfied, but still flowing in and out of the establishment.
Market Position
When opening a restaurant, it’s important not to be stubborn about your vision. To most restaurant owners, their business is like a child they raised. However, it’s important to keep in mind that a great restaurant pleases the customer first, not the owner. If your business model isn’t working after an extended period of time, it could be time to reinvent. Look at what your restaurant offers that others don’t. If your business clashes with another successful business in the area, look at how you can offer something that they don’t. This can mean anything from price point, to convenience, to health conscious options. Take your surrounding area into consideration. This doesn’t mean you have to entirely ditch your restaurant’s identity. Switching up what you offer or offering new and better restaurant promotions can lead to a whole new world of opportunity.
Utilities
A lot of your money is going to end up covering gas, water, and electricity – there’s no getting past it. As a general rule of thumb, if your bills account for more than 5% of your operating costs, something needs to change. There are ways to cut back on these costs, which in the long term can save a lot of money on a monthly basis. Outdated kitchen equipment can be a major cause of wasted utility bill money. If they’re being used past their breaking point, they can consume extra gas, electricity, or water just to function normally. Make sure all of your old rusty equipment is functioning efficiently, or toss it. Consider the price of new equipment, of course, but a better piece of machinery will be a good investment in the long run. A huge factor when it comes to saving money on electricity is light management. If your restaurant has big windows, don’t waste money running all of your lights during peak daylight hours. You can get away with turning off some of your lights if it’s bright enough. Additionally, it can help to invest in smart light bulbs that use less energy. This will consistently lower the cost of your electric bill. Finally, the last tip in reference to lowering utility bills is to monitor your hot water usage. It can seem insignificant, but especially in the early stages wasting hot water regularly will hurt your budget. There are plenty of ways to improve your restaurant’s profit margins if you’re creative.
How Much Do Restaurant Owners Make?
With all the costs discussed, how does one make a profit as a restaurant owner? As you enter the industry, you know that established restaurant owners make good money, but exactly how much can someone expect to make early on? In the beginning years of a new restaurant, an owner is expected to make around $35,000 to $75,000 a year. That being said, high profit restaurant owners can very realistically make a $150,000 salary. Many restaurant owners will take a pay cut in the early years of their business, and invest that money into improving their restaurant. Doing this poses a high-risk high-reward situation. It’s definitely a smart move to invest money into improving the business you want to make a living out of. However, if you’re particularly unsure about the success of your restaurant, it might make sense to pay yourself first.
Use careful planning when budgeting for your restaurant’s start up costs. Opening a new restaurant is always a costly operation, but with the right business plan and dedication to your business, you can own a thriving restaurant. The post How Much Does It Cost To Open a Restaurant? 2020 Restaurant Startup Costs appeared first on Restaurant Clicks. https://restaurantclicks.com/restaurant-startup-costs/via Blogger How Much Does It Cost To Open a Restaurant? 2020 Restaurant Startup Costs |
RSS Feed
