Maximizing Holiday Revenue with Catering and To-Go Options

A Guide for Chefs

1. Build a Standout Holiday Menu

Crafting a holiday-specific menu that’s both appealing and manageable is key. Focus on dishes that are popular, transport well, and are simple to prepare in larger quantities. Offering seasonal classics like roasted meats, hearty sides, and festive desserts can attract customers looking for traditional holiday flavors. To set your menu apart:

• Include unique twists on classics that reflect your restaurant’s signature style.
• Offer customizable options to accommodate dietary preferences, like vegan or gluten-free dishes.
• Highlight dishes that work well for both catering and to-go orders, ensuring they’ll be enjoyed whether served immediately or reheated.

2. Emphasize High-Margin Dishes

Maximizing profits means highlighting items with higher margins. Look for dishes that are low-cost but high-value, such as pasta, roasted vegetables, and baked goods. When creating holiday packages, mix high-margin sides with popular entrées to increase profitability. Consider creating premium holiday bundles with add-ons like wine pairings, dessert options, or appetizers that can boost the overall ticket.

3. Optimize Packaging for Quality and Presentation

For to-go and catering orders, packaging plays a huge role in both presentation and quality. Customers expect food that looks and tastes as good as in your restaurant. Invest in durable, eco-friendly containers that maintain temperature and prevent spills. For premium presentation:

• Include instructions for reheating and serving to ensure customers enjoy their meals at the right temperature and texture.
• Use packaging that reflects your brand’s aesthetic—details like branded stickers or ribbons add a festive touch.
• For larger catering orders, consider offering rentals for serving dishes to elevate the dining experience and reduce waste.

4. Offer Online Ordering and Simplified Pickup Options

Streamline the ordering and pickup process to make it as convenient as possible. Promote online ordering through your website and social media channels, allowing customers to place orders without hassle. For in-store pickup:

• Set up a designated area for holiday order pickups to keep everything organized.
• Offer curbside pickup for added convenience, especially during peak holiday times.
• If possible, create a dedicated ordering page for holiday catering and to-go items to make the customer experience seamless and efficient.

5. Market Early and Consistently

Get the word out early to capture holiday orders before your competitors do. Promote your catering and to-go menu on all available channels, including social media, email newsletters, and your website. Consider offering early-bird specials or discounts to incentivize early orders, helping you manage demand.

• Share high-quality photos of your holiday dishes to spark interest and build excitement.
• Send reminders as key holidays approach, emphasizing any last-call deadlines.
• Encourage customers to share their experiences with your holiday catering and to-go meals online, as social proof can drive new business.

6. Collaborate with Local Businesses

Partnering with other local businesses can expand your reach. For example, teaming up with a local bakery or wine shop can allow you to offer a complete holiday meal package, adding value for your customers. Cross-promotions with businesses that share your target market can increase visibility and bring in new customers. Additionally, consider:

• Creating collaborative holiday bundles with complementary items from other vendors.
• Hosting joint events or tastings to showcase your offerings and build anticipation.
• Offering reciprocal discounts with partner businesses to encourage customer loyalty and boost overall holiday sales.

7. Plan Staffing and Operations for Increased Demand

Holiday orders can create a surge in business, so it’s essential to plan ahead for staffing and production. Schedule additional kitchen and front-of-house staff to manage high order volumes, and ensure everyone is trained on holiday procedures to keep everything running smoothly. Streamline operations by:

• Preparing ingredients and dishes in bulk where possible to reduce prep time.
• Assigning specific team members to handle catering and to-go orders to avoid confusion.
• Setting realistic deadlines for orders and limiting order quantities if necessary to maintain quality.

8. Follow Up and Gather Feedback

After the holiday season, take the time to follow up with customers and gather feedback. Understanding what worked and what could be improved helps you refine your approach for next year. Reach out via email or include a feedback card with each order. Not only does this show customers you care, but it also helps you make data-driven decisions for future holiday seasons.

The holiday season is a prime opportunity to showcase your restaurant’s strengths and reach new customers. By offering thoughtful, well-organized catering and to-go options, you can make your business an integral part of customers’ holiday celebrations. Focus on building an appealing menu, streamlining the ordering process, and delivering exceptional quality to create a memorable experience that brings people back year after year.

With the right approach, your restaurant can maximize holiday revenue while providing guests with the convenience and quality they’re looking for. Happy holidays and happy cooking!

We designed this guide to help you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of holiday catering and takeout. Ready to make this your most successful season yet? Start planning with FoodPRO today!

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