Going to the movies isn't what it used to be. While a trip to the cinema was always about bringing people together around a central narrative or story, today they're about much more -- and foodservice plays a big role. Theaters must keep up with the changing entertainment landscape, and adding fun and exciting menu dishes is one of the best ways.
But how can operators upgrade their movie theater menu effectively?
Thankfully, upgrading the menu doesn’t mean operators have to worry about large investments in commercial kitchen equipment. By utilizing creative takes on classic items and space-saving commercial kitchen equipment, theaters can keep up with consumer demand and deliver menu selections to keep guests returning.
Perfecting the Classics
Griddles are perfect for a wide variety of food choices, including classics like burgers, hot dogs, and nachos. Operators can further enhance their menus with the Star Manufacturing Griddle. These griddles are perfect for crafting unique dishes, not just the classics listed here.
Fresh Burgers
Guests will appreciate the ability to order customized burgers with their choice of ingredients and toppings. The Star griddle can also leave those quintessential grill marks for added visual satisfaction. Plus, operators can come up with unique names for each burger to match the current box office trends.
Gourmet Hot Dogs and Sausages
While traditional hot dogs are still a mainstay (particularly for family-friendly shows), many guests prefer to order something a bit more gourmet. Options like bratwurst, chorizo, or Italian sausage can elevate the menu without requiring additional commercial kitchen equipment.
Nachos
These days, nachos have to be both delicious and visually appealing. Operators can upgrade their nacho selection with griddle-cooked meats and veggies that will look good on social media and taste good in the theater. However, servers must also keep in mind that spills and messes happen, so nachos should come in a self-contained box to limit the amount of cleanup necessary.
Sides and Snacks
While some guests may come to the theater hungry enough to devour a main course, many visitors will only want a fresh, warm snack to help them get through the opening previews. Some excellent snack options that operators can create with TurboChef Rapid Cook Ovens include:
Baked Potatoes
Potatoes are always a hot commodity, but theaters can upgrade the experience with a baked potato bar where guests can load their dishes with various toppings. This option is not only delectable and satisfying, but it can also look really good on social media.
Warm Pretzels
Soft pretzels are a breeze to make with TurboChef rapid cook ovens. Able to cook and keep pretzels warm quickly for high-volume showings, the oven also helps heat up sides of cheese or other dips to go alongside the pretzels.
Crispy Snacks
Ready-made fried dishes like fries, onion rings, and mozzarella sticks can be a huge hit with audiences. TurboChef Ovens can crisp these items quickly, so operators don't have to worry about dealing with or having to train staff on fryers.
Ice Cold Options
Regardless of the movie or time of day, drink sales are a huge revenue booster for movie theaters. With the Kloppenberg ice station, staff can keep up with demand and ensure that each beverage is as cold and refreshing as possible.
Able to store up to 250 pounds of ice without needing much space in the kitchen, these machines are also designed to stay cleaner for longer and deliver better ice quality compared to other manufacturers. Ice matters to the guests, so it should matter to management just as much.
Last But Never Least - Dessert!
Although candy might be the first dessert that comes to mind when at the movies, having sweet treats that are different than the norm can increase sales.
Mini Pies
A slice of pie may be too unwieldy for a movie theater, but a handheld, personal pie is just the right blend of deliciousness and convenience.
Apple Turnovers
Nothing compares to a warm, gooey apple turnover, especially when it's paired with some delicious ice cream.
Mini Tarts
Like pies, tarts offer a fantastic mouthfeel and just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, operators can roll out different tarts based on the season and local fruits that are in season.
Cookies
A cookie is already tasty, but when it's hot and fresh, it's so much better. Convection and rapid cook ovens can warm cookies to order so customers can enjoy them as soon as they sit down. Plus, the smell of baked cookies will only drive more sales.
Discover how TurboChef, Kloppenberg, and Star can help your movie theater, hospitality venue, or arena bring in more sales. Book time in our test kitchen for a hands-on experience:
