They say variety is the spice of life, and modern diners are looking for more of it at restaurants. And since they also crave the ability to personalize their meals and appreciate a touch of culinary creativity, food flights are popping up on more menus. From lineups of mini pancakes to small portions of potatoes, the trend is gaining steam, fueled in part by social media sensations like TikTok’s food flight craze. Find out why flights get special attention from diners and learn how to make the most of the trend to boost your breakfast traffic.
Great on the Plate
While beverage flights have long enjoyed the spotlight, the food menu is getting in on the fun. Deciding what to eat is hard—especially first thing in the morning. Restaurants can make that easier and appeal to variety seekers with breakfast flights, which offer smaller portions of a dish prepared in a few different ways.[1]
By featuring a mix of toppings, textures, and seasonings, flights let diners sample multiple tastes in one meal. Imagine a trio of waffles, each topped differently with mixed berries, chocolate hazelnut, and cinnamon apple—or a trio of diced potatoes ranging from loaded to Cajun roasted to white truffle parmesan with eggs. Potatoes, in particular, are having a moment on TikTok as the ultimate blank slate for creative flavors.
Good on the ‘Gram
Flights are an especially photogenic way of serving food. And when diners snap shots of their plates, chances are they’re sharing them on social media. That means more eyes on your business and more stomachs grumbling for your menu. So, give your customers what they want by adding pops of color or contrasting flavors with sauces or toppings. With some creative flair, your breakfast flights will be turning heads.
As patrons look for more variety on menus, offering flights can help meet that demand and turn one-time diners into regulars. Get inspired with delicious breakfast recipes your guests will love and products that bring them to life.
[1] Food and drink flights take off in new directions, Restaurant Business, 2024
