Make the Menu Work for You (3/3)

Use direct mail to reach your audience. This method - as well as proper use of the menu – is perhaps the strongest sales tools a restaurant has to gain recognition and drive sales. Create menu magazines containing your menu as well as background information about the chef, the restaurant history, interesting cultural facts, coupons, specials, perhaps some general community information, etc. and distribute throughout the neighborhood. The wise use of modern technology can boost sales. Use the internet to help drive traffic through the door – talk to your chamber of commerce or a professional you know to link your restaurant information with online destinations where potential customers frequent for dining ideas – offer specials, promotions, coupons, location information, a photo – a compelling reason – to visit your restaurant. A considerable amount of time and effort goes into creating a menu, so make that investment maximize your opportunity for increased sales.