In the competitive foodservice industry, profitability is just as important as creativity. High-margin dishes help boost revenue without increasing kitchen workload. The secret? Identifying and emphasising high-value items—premium ingredients, unique sides, and artisanal components that elevate perceived value while maintaining reasonable food costs. Here’s how to create dishes that customers will happily pay for.
1. Invest in Premium Breads
Bread is often overlooked, but upgrading to premium options can transform a dish. High-quality sourdough, brioche, and artisanal rolls offer better texture and flavour, instantly elevating a simple sandwich or burger. A classic burger or steak sandwich made with standard bread has an expected price point, but consider swapping it for a rich, brioche style bun or a hand-moulded sourdough which allows for more premium pricing.
2. Offer Unique Sides That Stand Out
Customers are willing to pay extra for sides that feel special. Instead of the standard fries, think about offering crispy polenta chips, truffle-infused sweet potato fries, or charred seasonal greens. Sides with unexpected flavours and textures create a point of difference and encourage upselling. Swapping standard chips for duck-fat roasted potatoes with rosemary and sea salt, for example, gives a dish a gourmet edge, allowing for a price increase with minimal additional food costs.
3. Incorporate Artisanal and House-Made Components
House-made sauces, infused butters, and pickled elements add perceived value while keeping costs low. Offering condiments made in-house, such as chilli-infused honey, herb aioli, or a signature smoky barbecue sauce, allows you to charge a premium for dishes without significantly increasing costs. For example, a standard grilled cheese sandwich made with premium sourdough and served with a house-made spiced tomato chutney can be priced higher than a basic version.
4. Highlight Limited-Edition or Seasonal Specials
Limited-time offerings create urgency and justify a higher price. Using seasonal ingredients, specialty breads, or a unique pairing (such as a beer-matched burger or a dessert collaboration with a local chocolatier) adds exclusivity that customers are willing to pay for.
5. Emphasise Presentation and Experience
How a dish is served can impact its perceived value. Thoughtful plating, high-quality serveware, and engaging presentation (such as table-side finishing touches or shareable platters) add to the experience and justify premium pricing.
Creating high-margin dishes isn’t about cutting costs—it’s about maximising value. If you need help creating dishes that your customers are willing to pay that little bit extra for, get in touch with our expert team today.
