Battle of the Burgers
The “build-your-own” concept and “better burger” trend continue to elevate the burger. Chefs and operators are reimagining traditional burger offerings to differentiate their menus while boosting incremental sales and patron appeal. With just a few small changes, you can transform your burgers from menu staple to menu specialty.
Satisfy diners’ hunger for bold flavors—73% of diners say that if they try an innovative menu item at a restaurant and like it, they will be very likely to come back for the same item. Turkey burgers are a delicious canvas for nearly any flavor profile, so they make the perfect base for adventurous toppings and condiments. Use fresh ingredients like peppercorns, basil, garlic or mushrooms to make sauces bursting with interesting flavor. Try crafting themed burgers with pesto, BBQ ranch, curry, or Cajun sauce.
Ensure your menu appeals to all palates by implementing a build-your-own burger program. Customers love to customize—64% are interested in building their own burgers. Create a list of your offerings, including buns, proteins and toppings, and invite your diners to choose their favorites.
You should also create a “recommended combinations” section, since 50% of diners say they would like to hear the restaurant’s suggestions for the best burger builds. Drive repeat traffic to your operation by keeping track of the most popular flavor combinations. Use your findings to create a signature burger that appeals specifically to your diners.
Keep tabs on trending flavors and be sure to adapt your burger menu to match. Be sure to stand out from the better-burger crowd by adding new toppings to your list based on seasonal ingredients and other limited-time-offers you’re serving. Try one of our Innovative Recipes or view all of our turkey burgers and sauces for more menu inspiration.
SOURCES
Burger Consumer Trend Report, Technomic, 2013
The Flavor Consumer Trend Report, Technomic, 2013
