In today's climate, takeout is a must. When you're more resource-strapped than ever, how can you make your menu work twice as hard for you?

The Crave Makers have advice on how you can turn dine-in favorites into takeaway dishes that will satisfy your guests and your bottom line.

Crafting the Experience

Whatever menu item you have in mind, think of it as an at home experience, not just a meal. Consider doing something that gets everyone involved and can turn a midweek meal into a fun family night.

A taquiza party is a great example. You can offer a range of options and let diners choose how they want to build their at-home spread. Here’s a sample menu to consider:

Taco Fillers (Choose 3)
Chik’n in Mole Sauce, MorningStar Farms^® Chorizo Crumbles, Cuban Picadillo, Chorizo with Potatoes & Grilled Cactus, Chorizo & Grilled Veggie Queso Fundido, Chipotle Black Bean Meatless Chili, Esquites Street Corn with Chorizo

Sauces & Salsas (Choose 3)
Guacamole, Roasted Red Chili Salsa, Salsa Verde, Pico de Gallo, Tomatillo & Corn Pico, Crema

Accompaniments (Choose 3)
Lime Wedges, Cilantro & Onion Picado, Sliced Jalapenos, Radishes, Shredded Lettuce, Pickled Red Onions

Complete the meal and upcharge with some extras:

Extras
Rice, Refried Beans, Charro Beans, Fresh Fried Tortilla Chips, Crispy Tostada Shells

Course It Out

To make it a full meal and a complete experience, course it out by including a starter, main course, sides and desserts.

Offer a portion scale for 2-4 people with options to increase by increments of two so diners are confident they’re ordering the right amount to feed their family.

Heat ‘n Eat vs. Hot ‘n Ready

You’ll have to decide whether it’s better to parcook the food and have customers finish cooking at home or to fully cook it in your kitchen and provide directions for reheating. Every decision should come down to what will create the best experience for your diners.

Whether you're doing heat ‘n eat or hot ‘n ready, take into consideration what will travel best and how it will be served at home. Use microwave and oven safe containers where appropriate to make the process quicker and easier. Be sure to provide step-by-step instructions.

EVERY DECISION SHOULD COME DOWN TO WHAT WILL CREATE THE BEST EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR DINERS."

Turning dine-in favorites into takeout favorites doesn’t have to be hard, but it needs to be thoughtful. From your kitchen to their table, give careful consideration to each step and you’ll be able to give your customers the same experience at home that they crave from your restaurant.