Is it time to change your menu? Some establishments choose to change the menu seasonally, others monthly, and others irregularly. In many instances, change consists of incorporating new limited-time offers. Here are some important menu factors to keep your restaurant competitive and increase your profit margin:

Does your menu lack variety when compared to your competitors? Consider adding any specific items that competitors successfully offer that are not part of your menu. If you can develop dishes that compare to competitors signatures, you may be able to draw in some of their customers.

Is there a menu item that we should have but don’t that is key to our concept? Explore the menus of other establishments that serve your cuisine. Are they offering ethnic dishes that would fit well with the theme of your menu? With the new emphasis on health in dining, maybe it’s time to expand your offerings of lighter fare.

Once you’ve decided what menu changes are necessary, it’s important to take into account operational considerations that can make the change easier and more profitable.

-Will your kitchen equipment be appropriate for the new items?

-Does the new menu item follow a similar prep process to items you already prepare?

-Does execution require special steps that will slow down your kitchen?

-Will the new item require any special ingredients not currently purchased?

When it comes time to put the changes in print, Serv-U offers menu jackets and high quality menu paper in a variety of designs. If you are testing out special, limited-time offers, menu clips are a great option to debut the selection to your customers. Menu development is an important process—positive changes will impress your customers and generate growth to your bottom line.