Menus do more than list what’s for dinner. They tell stories, show off personality, and help create moments that stick with guests long after the last bite.
We recently attended the National Restaurant Association Show, and one thing was clear: menu innovation is alive and thriving. Here are three ways to create a menu that stands out and keeps guests coming back for more.
Stand out with signature sauces
At this year’s show, sauce was everywhere—featured at multiple booths, highlighted in demos (like Heinz’s tool for customizing thousands of options), and called out in Monday’s featured session. It wasn’t just about taste, but about identity, creativity, and craveability.
Unique sauces, especially unexpected flavor pairings, can turn a good dish into a standout.
Menu tip:
Pick a popular dish and add a rotating seasonal sauce. Use mouthwatering descriptors like “zesty,” “smoky,” “tangy,” “herb-infused,” or “sweet heat” to catch attention. Send a one-time email to highlight it as a special or limited time offer to pique guest interest.
Create drinks that spark buzz (and revenue)
The beverage pavilion was buzzing with creativity this year. From global sodas and slushy mocktails, to Instagrammable coffee drinks, one thing is clear: beverages are no longer a sideshow— they’re front and center. And for good reason. They’re one of the easiest and cost effective ways to express brand personality and drive high-margin revenue.
A signature drink doesn’t just quench thirst—it’s highly Instagrammable, sparks conversations, and drives repeat visits. It can do as much for your restaurant as a signature dish, but with less prep and higher profits.
Menu tip:
Design a drink that’s meant to be showed off. Alcoholic or non-alcoholic, the choice is yours. Use color, garnish, or texture to make it unique. Go a step further and feature it on your Instagram page.
Crave it, click it, book it
Great flavor isn’t the only way to spark cravings—presentation and visibility matter, too. You know what they say: the eyes eat first.
Use tech like OpenTable (where you can manage everything in one place) to make it easier for guests to discover and book your restaurant. When your menu is uploaded directly to your OpenTable profile, guests can view it and make a reservation in one seamless experience.
Menu tip:
Upload your menu in just a few clicks with our AI powered software. Also, be on the lookout for tools that integrate with your system, like POPMENU. POPMENU lets you display real-time updates, dish photos, and guest reviews, helping you turn passive browsers into excited bookers.
Your menu is your brand
A thoughtful menu says a lot about your restaurant. It shows who you are, sets you apart, and gives guests a reason to come back (and tell their friends).
So go ahead—get bold with your flavors, creative with your drinks, and smart about using tech to get it out there to guests. Your menu deserves to be as unforgettable—and crave-worthy—as your hospitality.
