Posted by
Patrick Maness +
Almost as important as the food on the plate is the plate itself.
Today’s restaurateur is faced with what seems like a million and one options regarding how to plate and serve their food. Oftentimes you need to hire a professional decorator to make sure all the pieces go together, complement the menu and fit with the overall ambiance of the restaurant.
Though you might not be an expert in design, it’s worth knowing about current trends in tableware so you can make the right decision for your business.
To do this, we turn to one of the leaders in the industry, Libbey, for guidance. For almost two centuries, Libbey has been bringing some of the finest glassware, silverware, tableware and more to restaurants around the world. Simply put, they're experts in design and in helping restaurants pick from the wide range of available styles.
To get the most out of your tableware, Libbey suggests considering these four steps.
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Make a claim
How you serve, present and display your food should tell a story. This might sound abstract, of course — after all, how does a square plate or asymmetrical glass tell a story? They do so by intriguing the customer, catching their eye and making them wonder.
All good stories begin with wonder.
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Push the boundaries
It’s easy to play it safe. But in the competitive restaurant world, customers have no shortage of “safe” options. We’ve written in previous blogs about new spices to look out for, and just as your menu should be adventurous, so should your tabletop design.
First impressions count for a lot, and when people see their meal served on a beautiful and unique plate, they’ll remember.
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Create experiences for communities and individuals
We all know eating out is about more than filling up. It’s a chance to reconnect, share, see and be seen. To accommodate this social setting, consider tableware that encourages sharing and experimentation. This can include anything from small, shareable plates to sample drink glasses that make dining an interactive experience customers can share with their friends and family.
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Creative connections between spirits and profitability
You’ve probably noticed that today’s bar scene is nothing short of intense. People are willing to pay a premium for classic and new-fangled cocktails, not to mention craft beers and wine. The profit margin can be huge, but before you jump in, remember that this new style of drinking is an experience. People want their glasses to look a certain way and convey a particular feeling. If you do so, you'll ensure your beverages are truly unique and specialized. So don’t hold back on the best barware.
Read other articles in this series: