A How to Prep for Your Fall Menu

Fall is right around the corner, and it’s time to think about how to adjust your menu to match the season. Cooler temperatures mean people crave hearty, comforting dishes. Here are a few tips to get your fall menu ready.

1. Leverage Seasonal Ingredients

Autumn brings a bounty of fresh ingredients like squash, root vegetables, apples, and pears. Use them to create dishes that feel homey but still showcase your creativity. Consider offering specials that highlight these ingredients, like roasted butternut squash soup or apple-glazed pork chops.

2. Add Some Comfort Foods

As the weather cools, people gravitate toward dishes that warm them up. Think about adding more braised meats, stews, or baked pasta dishes to your menu. Mac and cheese with a twist, beef short ribs, or a classic pot pie can be a hit this season.

3. Warm Up with Fall Spices

Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice are key fall flavors. These spices can be worked into desserts, sauces, and even savory dishes. Try a cinnamon-scented squash puree or a nutmeg-spiced cream sauce over your pasta dishes. It’s an easy way to add a fall twist to your menu.

4. Keep It Simple, But Elevated

You don’t need to overhaul your entire menu. Instead, update a few dishes with seasonal twists. Add a new side or swap out a summer salad for one featuring roasted fall vegetables. Small adjustments can make a big impact and keep customers coming back.

5. Update Your Drinks Menu

Fall is a great time to offer warm drinks or fall-inspired cocktails. Spiked apple cider, a bourbon-based cocktail with ginger, or a pumpkin-spiced latte can be great seasonal additions. Don’t forget about hot chocolate and tea for the non-drinkers.

6. Think About Presentation

A little goes a long way when it comes to presentation. A warm, rustic look suits fall dishes. Serve soups in bread bowls, or top off your meat dishes with fresh herbs and roasted vegetables for a colorful, inviting plate.

By adjusting your menu to reflect the season, you’ll create a fresh experience for your guests while keeping them warm and satisfied. Need help getting your fall menu just right? Reach out to FoodPRO, and we’ll assist you in designing a great menu filled with the season’s bounty.