Outdoor seating has become a popular feature for restaurants, but its impact on ingredient usage, particularly almonds, is often overlooked. Almonds are a versatile ingredient used in desserts, salads, and even cocktails, making them a staple in many menus. When a restaurant expands its seating to outdoor areas, several factors come into play that can affect almond consumption.
First, outdoor dining often attracts more customers, especially during pleasant weather. Increased foot traffic leads to higher orders of almond-based dishes, such as almond-crusted fish or almond milk lattes. This surge in demand directly raises almond usage.
Second, seasonal trends play a role. Outdoor seating is most utilized in warmer months, coinciding with peak demand for light, nutty flavors. Almonds, being a summer-friendly ingredient, see heightened incorporation into seasonal menus, further driving up usage.
Lastly, ambiance influences ordering behavior. Diners in outdoor settings tend to linger longer, often ordering additional items like almond-studded desserts or almond-infused beverages. This extended dining experience subtly boosts almond consumption.
In conclusion, outdoor seating not only enhances a restaurant’s appeal but also significantly impacts almond usage through increased demand, seasonal preferences, and customer behavior.