Hosting Special Events Can Boost Margins and Sales
Special events can be a powerful tool for restaurants to boost sales and create memorable experiences for their customers. Let’s dive into how restaurants can leverage special events effectively.
Stand Out and Build Community
Hosting special events allows restaurants to differentiate themselves from competitors and build a loyal customer base. Here are some types of events to consider:
Wine tastings attract wine enthusiasts and curious customers interested in trying something new. Offering a selection of wines paired with small bites can create a unique experience.
Trivia nights encourage repeat business and customer engagement. Teams compete on various topics, fostering a sense of community and fun.
Live bands and music performances create a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends when customers seek a night out. Consider themed music nights or local artist showcases.
Tie events to holidays or special occasions like Halloween, New Year’s Eve, or Valentine’s Day.
Exclusive Tasting Menus and Prix Fixe Options
During special events, offer unique tasting menus or prix fixe options with add-ons. Guests are enticed to explore new dishes, leading to increased sales and revenue. Be creative with menu offerings to make the experience memorable.
Community Appreciation Events
Celebrate local heroes and their efforts. Host military appreciation events or fundraisers for local charities. These events not only attract a loyal customer base but also create a sense of community and appreciation among patrons.
By managing the ticket sales process for local charities, you can make it easier for them to raise funds for great causes, while giving you important business and community connections.
Togotiki has great options to help you manage online event ticket sales.
Promote Your Special Events
Use social media, email newsletters, and in-restaurant signage to promote upcoming events. Highlight the special features, menu items, and entertainment. Encourage reservations to ensure a full house.
10 Suggestions for Restaurant Special Events
Vino Voyage: A wine-tasting event that takes guests on a journey through different wine regions.
Brews & Bites: Beer tastings paired with delicious appetizers.
Culinary Cabaret: A lively dinner and entertainment experience.
Chef’s Showdown: Involve guest chefs competing in a friendly cook-off.
Sip & Sizzle: Grilled food paired with craft cocktails.
Taco Takeover: A celebration of all things taco-related.
Soulful Suppers: Live music and comfort food.
Flavors of the World: Explore international cuisines.
Burger Bash: A burger-themed event with creative toppings.
Sushi Soiree: Sushi-making demonstrations and sake tasting.
Additional Benefits of Ticketed Special Events
- Improve margins by maximizing revenue on slow evenings.
- Better inventory management with planned volumes and meal choices.
- Improve staff utilization.
- Develop a recurring schedule of successful themed events for improved off-season sales.