Game-day snacks can lead to higher check values

Despite a 2021 dip, consumer spending on game day has been on the rise overall and is expected to rise even more this fall*. That’s why it’s important for restaurant operators to start planning now for game-day specials, LTOs, and promotions to take advantage of consumers’ desire to celebrate their favorite teams either on-premise, at home, or while tailgating.

Poppable foods that can be served individually or mixed and matched in sampler platters alongside an assortment of dipping sauces are ideal for game-day menus. It’s easy to serve these craveable appetizers while incorporating consumers’ taste for global flavors and comfort foods as well.

Operators have the option of serving appetizers and snacks in the usual way – in other words, simply heat and serve with a standard dipping sauce – or in a more upscale way that can give their bottom line a boost. These allow operators to charge extra for “premium” sauces or serving methods and enjoy higher average check values.

Here are some ideas for your game-day menu:

Mini-Mexican Appetizers

Ready-to-eat mini-Mexican appetizers, including mini tacos and taquitos, are quick and easy to prep.

• Traditional option: Serve Mini Jalapeño Chicken Tacos with spicy salsa on the side.
• Upscale option: Drizzle Mini Korean Style BBQ Beef Tacos with bulgogi sauce, garnish with crunchy fried garlic, scallions, and sesame seeds, and serve with a tangy cilantro crema.

Asian Appetizers

Asian dim sum that offers quick preparation and authentic flavors is a great way to jazz up game-day menus.

• Traditional option: Serve Pork, Scallion, Ginger, and Garlic Wontons with a side of a soy sauce-based dip.
• Upscale option: Pan-sear Gourmet Pork Potstickers, glaze them with a citrus ponzu sauce, serve with seaweed salad, sriracha mayo, and pickled ginger, and garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

Classic Appetizers

All-American appetizers satisfy consumers’ cravings for comfort food, especially when the weather starts to cool in the fall.

• Traditional option: Serve Nashville Hot Style Cheese Curds with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
• Upscale option: Serve mini beef patties on toasted slider buns with butter lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, tangy onion jam, and Smoked Gouda and Bacon Flavored Mac & Cheese Bites.

Think outside the box this fall with appetizer menus and score big with customers on game days!

As a leader in culinary innovation, Ajinomoto Foods North America can help you stay informed. Check out our easy-to-serve, trend-forward products and follow our blog at AjinomotoFoodservice.com.

Keywords: Game–day LTOs, game–day menus, game–day promotions, football game day menu ideas, fall foods, fall trends, comfort foods, seasonal LTOs

Resources:
*National Retail Federation