Panini’s have become a firm favourite on a lunchtime menu or as a quick bite to grab on a lunch break, so it's important to know your Panini press.
Long gone are the days when an ordinary sandwich is the only option and the nation’s bread based sole favourite. Although the public are still partial to a traditional classic they also now require the option of something a little more European with fillings more interesting than simply cheddar or egg mayonnaise. Panini’s originated in Italy and have become known as a warm toasted or pressed sandwich. The popularity grew dramatically in the 70’s and 80’s especially in the U.S. In more recent years the lure of a tasty Panini has exploded in the UK and is a steadfast item on many menus.
The majority of restaurants who offer a lunch menu will choose to stick with proven favourites, and it is true that this is a safe option. The question is ‘Are you maximising the potential Panini market?’ One idea is to introduce a ‘Panini of the Day’ or ‘Panini of the Week’ that has a new and slightly more adventurous filling for your customers to try. Aim to offer something exciting and out of the ordinary, but that is no less delicious. By extending the offer for a week you are sure to have captured as many customers attention as possible. Some customers may only visit on 3 out of 5 days a week and would therefore miss two special offer days. Ensure that you advertise your new menu item and make the public aware of what they may miss out on if they don’t visit you in their lunch break. Print out posters for your restaurant windows and some fliers that inform the customers what special ingredients they can expect in the future. If they like the look of a particular day or week then they will make a conscious effort to come to you for lunch during the time that that specific offer is on. By assessing the popularity of the days or weeks special and gaining feedback from your customers you can gauge public reaction and decide if the most well accepted recipes should become a feature on your regular lunch menu.
The more creative and inventive you can be the better. If you find some unusual and new fillings that whet the appetites of your customers you can expand your lunchtime menu and keep your offerings fresh and relevant. Your Panini grill will be working hard, your customers are happy and satisfied and your till is ringing; give your new ideas a try…what’s to lose.