Appetizers Make a Tasty Introduction & Boost Guest Checks!
The MenuWorks team has designed numerous menus and it is clear that appetizers deliver more than just flavor. They shape the dining experience, spark curiosity, and invite guests to order beyond the basics, which makes them just as profitable as they are delicious. Let’s explore why offering a variety of enticing appetizers is good for your restaurant.
The more you appeal to your customers, the more likely they’ll start their experience with an appetizer. According to a survey from food and beverage market intelligence provider Datassential, 39% of customers order appetizers and about 30% order small plates on all or most restaurant visits. There is no better time to revamp or expand your appetizer offerings to excite guests and boost sales.
Appetizing Options
Appetizers, small plates, and shareable starters give chefs a space to showcase bold flavors and experiment with ingredients. Traditional starters like chicken fingers and garlic bread are declining as diners seek alternative options. US Foods’ trending appetizers include street tacos, cauliflower-based dishes, Asian-inspired bites, and Middle Eastern flavors.
Research shows that diners are expecting more variety from appetizer selections, with global flavors and ingredients topping the list. The National Restaurant Association’s 2025 What’s Hot Culinary Forecast highlights Southeast Asian cuisines as a key influence.
The popularity of Southeast Asian-inspired appetizers is fueled by cultural exposure and curiosity. Access to authentic ingredients through growing Asian grocery options makes it easier than ever for restaurants to bring these globally inspired flavors to their menus. A modern appetizer menu offers more than small bites; it delights diners, showcases innovation, and boosts sales.
Added Ways to Incorporate Appetizers & Increase Guest Checks
Appetizers don’t have to stay as starters or sides. Get creative by using them as toppings on sandwiches, garnishes on entrées, or even on cocktails like Bloody Marys with bacon, fried pickles, or shrimp. You can also offer appetizer “flights” for bars, patios, or late-night menus. Using appetizers as upgrades across the menu can boost check averages and even double profits.
Best Practices to Promote Your Appetizers
- Special Menu Section: Highlight appetizers in a prominent area of your menu using boxes, color, images, and strategic placement, following proven techniques of menu optimization.
- Spotlight Menus: Showcase appetizers on a stand-alone menu or in highlighted sections on late-night menus, bar menus, or happy hour menus.
- Table Tents: TableTanks, MenuWorks’ sturdier and superior take on the classic table tent, immediately draw hungry guests’ eyes to appetizers as soon as they sit down.
- Staff Training: Encourage servers to offer appetizers before taking orders.
- Social Media: Post enticing photos of new and popular appetizers.
Engage your customers with tasty, profitable appetizers.
MenuWorks creates attractive, durable menus as well as pop-in pages, paper inserts, and TableTanks for restaurants of all sizes. Our laminated options are easy to clean and can include Microban® antimicrobial protection at no extra cost. To learn more about presenting and promoting your appetizers and how our turnkey services, menu design, and optimization expertise can help, contact one of MenuWorks’ experienced account managers. We’ll send a sample pack of some of our products for reference and inspiration.