If you’re planning to hold a party or any kind of event at a restaurant, one of the most important things you need to look into is, of course, the menus.
Most restaurants offer a big selection of menus that can suit different tastes, from sophisticated meals like Chicken Parmigiana to more casual favorites like hamburgers. But there’s one menu that is often overlooked—restaurant appetizer menus.
Some surveys have shown that 10-20% of customers will go straight to the main course without getting appetizers but 70% of people will order at least one appetizer option. Even though most people will order at least one appetizer, these menus need more love.
What are the hallmarks of a great restaurant appetizer menu?
Here are a few things that make an appetizer menu great:
1. Balance and Variety
A good appetizer menu should offer a variety that caters to all kinds of tastes and preferences. Ideally, the menu should have a combination of interesting flavors, cooking styles, and textures.
Also, the menu should have a good mix of vegetarian options along with meat options, and a few cold dishes too. This variety doesn’t just make the menu more interesting but it also ensures that there’s something for each of your guests to enjoy.
Another important factor that the appetizer menu should account for is dietary information, preferably indicating ingredients that may cause allergies in some people.
2. Innovation and Creativity
The best kind of restaurant appetizer menus are the ones that push boundaries by including a few unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else. In addition to the traditional appetizer menu options, like onion rings, it would be great if the menu included something special, like the restaurant’s unique take on loaded fries.
Some of these dishes don’t even have to be completely new; instead, they can represent a unique twist on old recipes. Creative appetizer options aren’t just a restaurant’s attempt at diversification; they also showcase their confidence in creating something unique.
3. Quality Ingredients and Preparation
Appetizers may seem like the more basic dishes you can order at a restaurant, but that doesn’t mean you should look past the quality of the ingredients. Good restaurant appetizer menus should have foods that are prepared to the highest quality with the finest ingredients.
Also, the appetizer options should be presented in a visually appealing way—appetizers shouldn’t just taste good; they should look good too. Additionally, a well-prepared appetizer menu shows the restaurant’s dedication to quality and giving their customers a great dining experience.
4. Appropriate Portion Sizes
The whole point of appetizers is to whet your appetite and get you excited about the main course.
So the ideal appetizer menu should offer appropriate portions that will keep all your guests satisfied, but the portions should not be overwhelming to the point that they don’t have room for the main course and dessert.
Additionally, the appetizer section should offer good value for money—the portions should be reasonably priced so you don’t feel like you’re paying more than you should. This is especially important when you need to order appetizers for a large number of guests.
5. Pairing Potential
A great appetizer menu should have items that can pair well with other dishes and beverages. The menu should have foods that can go nicely with drinks like coffee, iced tea, and various flavors of soft drinks.
In addition, the appetizers should be good starters for the main course items, like fries for burgers and pizza.
What are some scrumptious appetizer menu items?
Now, let’s take a look at some interesting appetizers that your guests will love:
1. Stuffed Banana Peppers
A sweet and spicy delight, stuffed banana peppers are an excellent twist on a classic recipe. Stuffed banana peppers can be a good precursor for pasta and other heavy dishes.
2. Zucchini
Zucchini can be a nice alternative to fries. It’s a cold dish that offers a crunchy texture and a refreshing aftertaste. It’s also a good appetizer for your vegetarian and health-conscious guests.
3. Spicy Cheese Balls
Spicy cheese balls are the perfect option for anyone who loves cheese-filled dishes with a spicy kick. This appetizer goes well with soft drinks and main dishes like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches.
4. Breaded Cauliflower and Mushroom
If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative to breaded chicken, this is the perfect dish for you! These dishes have a great texture and are loved by adults and kids alike.
5. Chicken Fingers
Not too different from the iconic fish fingers, chicken fingers are a nice little snack that can be enjoyed with all kinds of condiments, like ketchup or barbecue sauce.
6. Potato Skins
A classic bar food, potato skins, are hollowed-out potatoes filled with cheese and all kinds of other great toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions from our customers:
1. What’s a kid-friendly appetizer?
Mini sandwiches or chicken fingers can be great appetizers for kids.
2. Should I find out about the dietary restrictions of guests before choosing a menu?
Absolutely! Find out about dietary restrictions that your guests may have and communicate this to the restaurant staff.
3. Can I customize the appetizer menu?
This depends on the restaurant. Some restaurants may allow you to create your appetizer menu but most offer a fixed one.
Explore great restaurant appetizer menus today
Appetizers might not look like much but they can set the tone for the entire meal at any event. When you’re looking into the menus at a restaurant when planning an event, don’t forget to see what the appetizer menu has to offer.
Get in touch with a family restaurant in your area today.