5 Ways to Make Menu Training Fun
As a restaurant manager or owner, you know that menu training is an essential element to the success of your business. But it's also just one of the many topics to cover when onboarding a new hire. By the time menu training starts, that new employee may be feeling a bit overwhelmed from all the new information. That's just when a unique and fun learning experience could really make a difference.
With these 5 unique ideas, you can engage with your menu in a way that will make that knowledge stick and there's a lot of opportunity for team inclusion with each experience. So why not give these a try? You might just find yourself sharing your passion for delicious food while also creating a top - notch service experience for every guest who walks through those doors.
#1: The "Foodie Match" Game
Who says learning can't be fun? Let's kickstart the menu training journey with a game called "Foodie Match." It's like a classic matching game, but with a delicious twist!
How To Play
To start, new employees create flashcards featuring vibrant pictures or enticing descriptions of the dishes, while writing the corresponding names on separate cards. Once the cards are shuffled and laid out, the challenge begins!
The task is to match each dish with its correct name or description. To improve recall, give them the opportunity to tantalize their taste buds by indulging in a mini-tasting session of each dish. By combining the visual and sensory experience, they engage their memory and build strong associations between the images, names, and flavors.
Game Play Tips & Variations
Encourage them to approach the game with a playful mindset, cheering for every successful match they make. To add an extra layer of excitement, you can set time limits or create friendly competitions among the new employees. Sure, they'll memorize the menu, but they'll also deepen the team dynamic in your restaurant.
The more they play, the more they'll start recognizing patterns and connections between dishes. Encourage them to discuss their findings and share any interesting facts or observations about specific ingredients or cooking techniques.
To reinforce the learning, mix up how you use the cards. Try using only descriptions and challenging them to match the correct dish or by presenting the cards face down and asking them to recall the names solely based on the descriptions. These changes will make their menu training more effective, while also making learning a bit more fun.
Key Benefits
Increased knowledge retention, Improved team cohesion, Increased employee confidence
#2. The "Taste Bud Time Traveler" Exercise
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through time with the "Taste Bud Time Traveler" exercise! This on imaginations to visit different countries and eras, as they explore the diverse flavors and cultural influences behind each dish on the menu.
How to Play
To begin, have employees write down the names of the dishes on the menu, along with their corresponding countries of origin. Encourage them to research and discover interesting historical facts and landmarks associated with each country. This will help create an interesting mental picture of the culture in which these dishes were born, making your restaurant stand out from others with similar menus.
Now, invite the new employees to use their imagination and visualize themselves as time travelers. With each dish, they will embark on a culinary adventure to the specific country and time period it represents. For example, they might find themselves in ancient Greece enjoying a dish that pays homage to the birthplace of democracy and philosophy.
Encourage them to close their eyes and envision the bustling streets, the aromatic spices, and the vibrant colors of the local marketplaces. Engage their senses by asking them to imagine the sizzling sounds and mouthwatering scents wafting from the kitchens of historical figures and iconic establishments.
As they travel through time, ask them to connect the dots between the dish's name, its country of origin, and the cultural influences that shaped its unique flavors. Encourage them to research the key ingredients and techniques used in each cuisine and discuss the historical significance of certain dishes.
Game Play Tips & Variations
To make this exercise even more interactive, consider hosting mini "time-traveler" sessions where employees can share their findings and engage in group discussions. This will not only deepen their understanding of the menu but also foster a sense of teamwork and camaraderie among the staff.
As they embark on their "Taste Bud Time Traveler" journey, new employees will develop a broader appreciation for the culinary heritage represented on the menu. They'll gain insights into the cultural exchange and fusion of flavors that have shaped our global cuisine.
Encourage them to take notes and share interesting anecdotes about each dish, creating a personalized menu guidebook along the way. This guidebook will serve as a valuable resource for future reference and help them connect with guests about the origins and stories behind the dishes they'll be serving.
Menu Training Benefits
Deeper menu mastery, More engaging guest experiences
#3. The "Create-Your-Own-Special" Challenge
Get ready to unleash your inner chef and embark on a culinary journey of creativity with the "Create-Your-Own-Special" challenge! This activity asks new employees to put on their thinking caps and invent their very own signature dish using the ingredients available on the menu.
How to Play
To begin, provide them with a list of ingredients that they can choose from. This can include proteins, vegetables, spices, and other essential elements found in the kitchen. Encourage them to explore the flavors and textures of each ingredient, considering how they can complement and enhance one another when combined.
Now, it's time to let their imagination run wild! Challenge them to come up with an enticing combination of flavors, unique presentation, and perhaps a clever twist that sets their dish apart. Encourage them to think outside the box and push the boundaries of their culinary creativity.
As they brainstorm and experiment, remind them that there are no wrong answers in this challenge. It's all about exploring and discovering their own unique culinary voice. Encourage them to trust their instincts and embrace the freedom to take risks and try new ideas.
Once they have formulated their dish concept, invite them to name their creation. The name should reflect the essence of their dish and capture the attention and curiosity of guests. It could be a playful pun, a nod to its inspiration, or a name that evokes a sense of excitement.
Game Play Tips & Variations
To add an interactive element to this challenge, consider hosting a tasting session where the new employees can present their creations to their colleagues. This provides an opportunity for everyone to taste and provide constructive feedback on each other's dishes. It's a chance for them to showcase their creativity and receive valuable input from their peers.
As the game continues, encourage the new employees to refine and improve their dishes based on the feedback they have received. Remind them that the journey of culinary innovation is an ongoing process of learning and growth, as chefs continue their quest for perfection with each new dish they create.
To celebrate their accomplishments, consider featuring their creations as specials on the menu for a limited time. This gives guests the opportunity to experience the fresh and innovative dishes crafted by the talented new members of the team.
Menu Training Benefits
Better ingredient knowledge, Greater employee confidence, Improved employee loyalty, Improved team cohesion
#4. The "Menu Explorer" Scavenger Hunt
Turn your menu training into an exhilarating adventure with the "Menu Explorer" scavenger hunt! This interactive activity will turn the process of learning the menu into a thrilling quest of discovery and excitement.
How to Play
To begin, design a series of clues that will lead new employees from one dish to another on the menu. Each clue should provide hints about the name, ingredients, or description of the next dish to be found. For example, a clue could be: "This dish is a seafood delight, known for its succulent shrimp and tangy lemon sauce."
Place the clues strategically throughout the restaurant, ensuring that each clue leads the participants closer to the next destination. Encourage them to work together or form teams, promoting collaboration and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the staff.
As they unravel the clues and find the dishes, new employees will actively engage with the menu, reading and understanding the descriptions to identify the correct dish. This activity not only familiarizes them with the menu offerings but also helps them navigate its layout and structure.
Game Play Tips & Variations
To make the scavenger hunt even more interactive, add new challenges along the way. For example, they may have to answer trivia questions about specific dishes or perform a task like de a particular cooking technique. These additional elements inject fun and excitement into the learning process, keeping everyone on their toes.
As they progress through the scavenger hunt, encourage the participants to take notes about each dish they discover. This will help reinforce their memory of the menu items and provide them with a valuable reference for future inquiries from guests.
To celebrate their successful completion of the scavenger hunt, reward the participants with a small treat or token of appreciation. This gesture acknowledges their hard work and dedication, boosting morale and fostering a positive learning environment.
Consider gathering the team after the scavenger hunt to reflect on the experience and discuss any interesting facts or insights discovered along the way. This provides an opportunity for new employees to share their observations and engage in meaningful conversations about the menu and its offerings.
To further enhance the learning experience, create a visual representation of the scavenger hunt, such as a map or diagram illustrating the connections between the dishes. Display this visual aid in a prominent location where new employees can refer to it for reinforcement and future exploration.
Menu Training Benefits
Deeper menu mastery, Improved team cohesion, Greater employee confidence
#5. The "Chef's Table" Tasting Experience
Get ready for a mouthwatering and immersive experience as we invite you to the exclusive "Chef's Table" tasting adventure! Take new employees on a culinary journey through the menu, allowing them to savor a variety of dishes while deepening their understanding and appreciation of the restaurant's offerings.
How to Play
To begin, set up a designated area in the restaurant where the "Chef's Table" will be hosted. This can be a beautifully decorated table adorned with elegant tableware and tasteful décor, creating an ambiance of luxury and sophistication.
Craft a mini-tasting menu comprising a selection of signature dishes, seasonal specials, and customer favorites from the menu. Each dish should be carefully prepared and presented in small portions, allowing the new employees to experience a diverse range of flavors and textures.
As the tasting experience begins, invite a knowledgeable chef or experienced staff member to guide the participants through each dish. This guide can provide a brief introduction to the dish, sharing insights about the key ingredients, cooking techniques, and the inspiration behind its creation. Encourage the participants to ask questions and engage in discussions to deepen their understanding.
As the new employees savor each dish, encourage them to use all their senses to explore the flavors, textures, and aromas. Prompt them to pay attention to the balance of flavors, the presentation, and the overall dining experience. This interactive tasting process allows them to develop a discerning palate and a nuanced understanding of the menu's culinary offerings.
Game Play Tips & Variations
To make the "Chef's Table" experience even more enriching, consider pairing each dish with a complementary beverage. This can include wine, beer, or non-alcoholic alternatives that elevate the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience. Encourage the participants to explore the interplay between food and beverage, and how the pairing can elevate the enjoyment of each dish.
Throughout the tasting experience, emphasize the importance of descriptive language and effective communication when discussing the dishes. Encourage the participants to articulate their thoughts and provide feedback on the flavors, presentation, and overall impression of each dish. This exercise hones their ability to communicate effectively with guests, enhancing their confidence and professionalism.
To further engage the participants, include interactive elements in the "Chef's Table" tasting experience. For example, include a blind tasting challenge where they have to identify the key ingredients in a dish just based on on taste and aroma. This activity sharpens their sensory perception and encourages them to develop their palate.
After the tasting experience, gather the participants for a post-tasting discussion. Encourage them to share their favorite dishes, the most memorable flavor combinations, and any surprises or discoveries they encountered. This debrief session allows for reflection and the opportunity to celebrate the culinary journey they embarked on together.
To ensure the tasting experience leaves a lasting impact, provide the participants with a comprehensive menu guide that includes detailed descriptions of each dish tasted. This guide can serve as a reference for future inquiries from guests and help the new employees confidently navigate the menu.
Menu Training Benefits
Faster menu mastery, Greater employee confidence, Increased team cohesion
These are just a few fun ways to keep your new employees engaged while improving their knowledge and confidence. Some may be better suited to your operation than others. We covered a lot of ground with these. We hope you'll give these a try, or maybe just inspire you to create some fun and effective ways to improve your menu training process.
Have any other ideas? Share them in the comments below!
