This blog post is dedicated to independent operators. The ones who are battling the big chain restaurants that seem to swoop in and take all the business away. You have something that the big chains will never have and that is the ability to adapt quickly. Your team can refresh the menu and take advantage of local & seasonal ingredients at a pace that the big chains can't compete with. Your ability to make things in small batches and customize the menu to fit the neighbourhood is what sets you apart. The key to your success is leveraging these strengths!!

Take a look at your beer batter recipe for your fish & chips. When was the last time this was refreshed to reflect the changes that are going on in the beer industry? 

The Microbrewery is a perfect example of how to compete in a market that is dominated by the giants. Microbreweries take advantage of local water, and craft their beer in small batches.  They have unique flavours that spark interest. The microbrew is often priced 15-20% higher, and it sells fast!! People are willing to pay for quality and uniqueness. 

What beer is in your fish & chip batter? What local microbreweries exist in your neighbourhood? You'd be surprised at what you will find out once you explore. Consider adding these popular local beers to your bar menu, and using them in your kitchen for the fish & chip batter. Call it out on your menu and watch sales increase dramatically. But don't stop there. What about having a featured fish & chip batter of the day/week?     

Let's not foget about the world of citrus and how it pairs so well with fish. White beers are using citrus and coriander notes to enhance the flavour of the beer and create a refreshing light taste. Have you tried using one of these white beers for your fish and chip batter?? It's a match made in heaven, and I'm often surprised at how few establishments have yet to explore this option. 

But let's step outside of beer for a second. A fish batter doesn't always have to be made with beer. Generally you need some sort of carbonation, but this can be achieved by using soda or  sparkling water. How about doing a fish batter with orange, gin and soda? You can still use the same batter mix to experiment, just switch the liquids. I've tried it and the results are stunning. Pair it with a citrus inspired tartar sauce and you have something that will set you apart. 

Until next time.....Stay Hungry My Friends.