In the dynamic world of foodservice, it can be a challenge to balance authenticity with trends. You want to stay relevant and offer dishes that excite customers, yet stay true to your menu’s core identity. Authentic dishes connect with customers by offering a sense of tradition, while trendy dishes keep your menu fresh and engaging. Finding the sweet spot between the two is a recipe for success.
Here are some strategies to create a balanced menu that showcases both authenticity and trend-forward appeal, without compromising on quality or integrity.
Stay True to Core Flavours and Ingredients
If your menu is rooted in a specific cuisine or theme, maintaining the essence of those core flavours is essential. Authenticity doesn’t mean you can’t innovate—it just means respecting the ingredients and flavours that make a dish unique.
Focus on high-quality, traditional ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, and quality spices. From there, you can add a twist, such as a locally inspired garnish or sauce that aligns with current trends.
When it comes to bread-based dishes, consider keeping traditional bases intact while experimenting with toppings or fillings. For example, a classic Italian bruschetta on Speedibake Sourdough can be updated with seasonal toppings like whipped feta and roasted tomatoes.
Update Classics with a Twist
One way to satisfy both traditionalists and trend-seekers is to start with a classic dish and add a small, unexpected twist. This keeps the dish recognisable yet adds a fresh element that keeps customers intrigued.
Consider some modern burger variations. Serve cheeseburgers on the classic Tip Top Brioche Style Bun, but try swapping in unique ingredients like smoked gruyere instead of cheddar or adding trendy toppings like kimchi or sriracha mayo.
Incorporate Trendy Ingredients as Accents
Trendy ingredients are a fantastic way to modernise traditional dishes without overshadowing them. Think of trendy elements like garnishes, sauces, or sides that can be added or removed easily, so your dish remains versatile.
A fun and easy way to do this is by including some fermented vegetables on the side. Fermentation is a popular trend, so consider adding a side of kimchi or pickled radishes to a classic dish. For instance, offer a Reuben sandwich on panini with a side of house-made pickles, adding a modern touch while staying true to the essence of the dish.
Play with Presentation
Sometimes, making a dish trendy is more about the presentation of the dish rather than altering the ingredients. Embracing modern plating techniques and thoughtful presentation can give traditional dishes a trendy edge without changing the core recipe.
For a trendy presentation, consider smaller portions served family-style. Speedibake Sharing Loaves work wonderfully for this approach, allowing customers to break bread together while sampling dips, spreads, and other small bites.
Striking the right balance between authentic and trendy is about staying connected to the roots of a dish while allowing room for modern flair. Tip Top Foodservice’s high-quality breads and bakery products make this balance achievable, giving you a reliable foundation to build on, whether you're keeping it classic or trying something new.
