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Summer Drinks
Thirst quenching summer beverages create liquid assets for restaurants
It is not surprising that as temperatures climb, so does the appeal of refreshing drinks. Restaurants can take advantage of this business booster by offering a drink menu that quenches the public's thirst for summertime beverages.
Beverage Trends
It used to be acceptable to offer a wide range of soft drinks to satisfy the mainstay of summer sipping. This trend has taken a major shift toward non-carbonated beverages such fruit drinks and iced tea. According to the Beverage Digest (March 2009), soft drinks are on a steady decline, while natural beverages are increasing in sales around the country. This is attributed to a thirst for healthy choices. Beverages including green tea, fresh fruits, and vitamin-boosted waters are the preferred cool drink of choice.
Fresh Fruit Juices
Fruit juices are especially appealing in the summer. Pure fruit juice and nectars are expensive and can be too intense for some pallets. Combining fruit with soda water or tea makes a colorful and refreshing alternative. Juices can also be blended with ice for a frozen fruit treat. Strawberries, peaches, and nectarines keep their color and flavor in fresh drinks. In her book Summer Drinks, Elizabeth Feltham shares, "You can indulge in the recent enthusiasm for fresh local ingredients, steering away from manufactured products, you can create delicious fresh fruit blends."
Citrus fruits are especially refreshing in warm weather. Any combination of limes, lemons, and oranges can create a satisfying spritzer or citrus ade. Don't underestimate the popularity of the old standbys. Lemon and limeade are making a comeback. Patrons appreciate the flavor of fresh squeezed fruit and will pay more for the real deal. Consider adding strawberries, peaches, or fresh mint leaves for a new twist on a summertime favorite.
Iced Teas and Coffee Drinks
Ice tea and coffee are steadily growing as popular beverages. The summer season increases the desire for iced coffees, lattes and mochas. Coffee has become increasingly complex as coffee shops offer a multitude of serving options. This can lead to dissatisfied customers when it isn't possible to provide the myriad of choices. My advice is to keep it simple. Offer one or two iced coffee choices and invest more in a fresh brewed iced tea.
According to the NPD global market research firm, the biggest growth, next to coffee, is iced tea—which has increased 12 percent in the five-year span from November 2001 to November 2006, and this trend is continuing. Green tea is especially popular for its reputation of healthy properties. Herbal teas are also popular for those who desire a non-caffeinated option. Raspberry, mint, lemon zest, and blackberry teas create refreshing summer iced drinks.
Smoothies and Shakes
Smoothies and shakes also hit the spot for a warm weather beverage. Frozen yogurt combined with fruit creates a creamy treat that doubles as a tasty dessert. Blended ice lightens the combination as well as providing more beverages per batch. Consider creating your own signature blended drink. These can be of the cocktail variety or a mocktail without liquor. Choosing fresh local fruits to include in the drink ensures a flavorful combination.
Finishing Touches
No matter what summer drinks you choose to serve, it pays to add a finishing touch. Frozen berries, a slice of lemon, or a sprig of mint or lavender communicates that you take pride in your selections. Patrons will appreciate the extra touch that turns a tall cool drink into a summertime experience.
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