🍽️ Outsourced Thanksgiving Meals | 🍫 Mars Invests in Chocolate

The Thanksgiving holiday isn’t a day off for restaurants – almost half of Americans plan to buy their holiday meal from a restaurant instead of making it themselves. Pull up a chair to learn why in today’s edition of The Prep.

On the menu:
🍬 NYC's new sugar labeling law for chain restaurants
🍴 EatOkra app boosts Black-owned restaurant visibility
🍫 Mars invests in premium chocolate, signaling market growth

49% of Americans rely on restaurants for Thanksgiving meals

Almost half of Americans surveyed said they’ll let a restaurant handle their Thanksgiving meal this year.

Of 1,000 US consumers surveyed, 32% said they will opt for takeout/delivery to handle the meal details, and another 17% will dine at a restaurant in person.
Notably, individuals under the age of 35 showed a higher inclination toward restaurant reliance, with 42% opting for takeout/delivery, and 20% planning to dine on-site, according to survey conductor Popmenu.

The reasons behind passing off the Thanksgiving preparation duties? The survey revealed that:
• 64% find it more convenient.
• 35% prefer not to cook.
• 35% appreciate professionally-cooked food.
• 24% believe ordering from restaurants is more cost-effective than buying ingredients for Thanksgiving dinner.

Trusting a traditional holiday meal to a local restaurant shows a lot of faith in the industry. What does the trend mean for upcoming holiday meal-based gatherings?

Full Story: Cision (11/20)

For your review: Does your restaurant prepare and sell Thanksgiving meals?

Yes 👍

No👎

🎧 Running Restaurants Podcast

Episode 202 - The Inspiring Journey of Balance Grille (Fast Casual Asian Fusion Restaurant)

“As an owner, you’ve got to show the type of work ethic and [show] what you’re envisioning to your employees and they will follow you as long as you treat them good.” - Ho Chan Jang, Co-Founder & Exec Chef of Balance Grille

We recommend listening to the full podcast here (24 mins)

NYC mandates chain restaurants to disclose "added sugar" items

NYC's new Sweet Truth Act will require chain restaurants to label "added sugar" in menu items that surpass FDA recommendations.

Aimed at combating hidden sugar consumption and its health impacts, the law penalizes non-compliant businesses, reflecting a growing focus on nutrition transparency in the food industry.

Full Story: Salon (11/20)

EatOkra app connects foodies with Black-owned restaurants

EatOkra, an app developed by Anthony and Janique Edwards, links 500,000 foodies to Black-owned restaurants and culinary creators.

Launched in 2017, it emphasizes Black food culture, providing users with an extensive network of restaurants, chefs, and food suppliers.

Beyond promoting Black culinary heritage, EatOkra also offers an e-commerce platform and a rewards program, aiding in the visibility and growth of Black-owned food businesses.

Full Story: Forbes (11/20)

CREATE’s future of Food Service report

Nation's Restaurant News presents a treasure trove of industry gems in its Future of Foodservice Report. Filled with videos, podcasts, and products, this interactive report is your gateway to the newest trends in restaurant technology, finance, and consumer growth!

Get your free report from Create

Mars just spent $665M on premium chocolate: Here’s why

Premium chocolate is forecast to grow by $15bn over the next 4 years (Mordor Intelligence).

What opportunities could premium chocolate bring to your business? New menu options, a way to differentiate from competitors, or attract new customers?

A pinch of this and that

🌎 America's Favorite Eateries: Ranking the top full-service restaurant chains in the US for 2023.
🔪 Chef Life Tips: Essential beginner tips and tricks for in a restaurant simulator.
🍴 Bakersfield's Culinary Gem: Exploring the history and charm of Bakersfield's Basque restaurant, Wool Growers.

✈️ Gourmet Travel Insights: Reviews and experiences from food-focused trips shared by avid travelers.
🍔 Saving Small Eateries: A creator's mission to preserve New York City's small restaurants using his platform.

Wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you. I’m grateful you took some time to read this edition of The Prep newsletter. Each week, we’ll highlight news, insights, and even social media content about restaurants, bars, and food culture.

Is there something you think we should cover in the next edition, or feedback you’d like to share? Reply to this newsletter and let me know about it. You can also forward this email to a friend or colleague.

We’re looking forward to connecting with you each week – thanks for coming to the table for The Prep.

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49% of Americans rely on restaurants for Thanksgiving meals

For your review: Does your restaurant prepare and sell Thanksgiving meals?

🎧 Running Restaurants Podcast