How to Create a Bistro Menu
A bistro is a small restaurant that can range from a cafe to an upscale fine dining restaurant. Typically a bistro serves simple fare that includes locally grown fresh ingredients. Creating a bistro menu should be based on the theme of the eatery.
- Decide on the theme for the bistro. It can be anything, such as French, Italian or regional American comfort foods.
- Design a menu that is small, typically no more than 12 items. Bistro menus are relatively low in price, so keep that in mind.
- Create signature dishes. Signature dishes should be a staple at the bistr0. For example, if sticking with American comfort foods a signature dish could be a chicken pot pie. Create a recipe for this dish that is unique to your bistro.
- Bistros typically use fresh ingredients grown locally. Find farmer's markets in the area and buy directly from them. This will keep costs low and provide the freshest possible ingredients to customers. The menu can change with the seasons to offer more variety and keep ingredients as fresh as possible.
- Check the competition for menu prices. A popular bistro should be in line with other restaurants of its caliber.
- Cost is a big factor when designing a menu. To be profitable, food costs should stay below 30 percent.
- Design the menu or menu cover. A menu cover works well if the menu changes seasonally. The front cover of the menu should reflect the theme of the restaurant in some way. Hire a professional graphic designer to create the cover.