How to Build a Universal Breakfast Menu
For some, breakfast has remained a carbohydrate heavy meal, but for others it has evolved into an expression of specific combinations of proteins, vegetables, oats, and grains. Many specialized diets have come into the mainstream claiming to supply energy, promote healthy weight-loss, and minimize unpleasant symptoms or health risks.
In order to balance the varying desires of your breakfast consumers with your desire to maintain a minimalist menu, you must have a clear vision of how you want to stratify your offerings. Let's start with the broad strokes.
Coffee & Tea
Breakfast is a beverage heavy meal. This could possibly be the most dense section of your menu. For hot beverages, you will need a minimum of coffee - decaf and regular, plus a variety of tea bags. Milk or 1/2 &1/2, almond milk, sweeteners, plus disposable supplies, like coffee cups, lids, carriers, stirrers, spoons, and napkins.
Juice
More than hot beverages, you should have a juice/smoothie section. If you have a refrigerated display, you might want to consider preparing and bottling these ahead of time. Why not distinguish your business with delicious fresh, cold-pressed juice offerings? Click here for juice recipe ideas.
Alternative
As changing preferences for breakfast extend beyond metropolitan areas and into mainstream, it is wise to offer a few options that are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and "paleo". Think of a revolving morning soup or porridge concept. Lentils, beans, and peas are all making their way into the AM meal for health conscious consumers. The only barrier to alternative options should be an individual's preference or allergy. These items should be available and approachable to almost everyone.
More than preferences and anti-preferences for specific ingredients or food groups, the entire structure of three square meals-a-day is being disrupted by new-age ideas about ideal eating. In light of this, breakfast businesses might consider offering specialty snacks in grab-and-go, resealable packaging.
Traditional
Not everyone has changed their diets to preclude them from eating delicious, timeless breakfast meals and even for those who have, a greasy-spoon meal might be the perfect once in a while "cheat meal". For traditional breakfasts like omelettes, pancakes or crepes, sausages, and hash browns simplify your efforts with a counter top induction cooker and several induction pans.
Celebration & Special Occasion
If your venue is equipped with space enough for large parties or has a back room for private groups, consider creating a pop-up brunch experience. Serve your weekend or special occasion guests breakfast options in shiny chafers and offer them bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary's.
If you already have access to a venue that serves lunch and/or dinner, adding breakfast is great way to expand your base and increase your bottom line. Creating a universal menu will ensure that you have something for almost everyone who walks through your doors. Don't forget: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
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