By Katy O’Donnell Tequila isn’t just showing up in shots and in margaritas anymore – guests are drinking it neat, trying different expressions and becoming more curious about what’s behind the bar. For restaurants, that interest opens up more ways to sell the category, but adding five more bottles to the back bar isn’t much […]
By Elizabeth Wessel Chefs and restaurateurs need to stay innovative to set themselves apart from the competition, and adding trendy food items to the menu is one way to attract attention and increase restaurant traffic. This latest edition of Trend Watch focuses on three menu trends that are being seen across Canada right now: quirky gin infusions, […]
Dry January is a trend that has gained traction over the last few years as part of a sober-curious movement, often continuing well past the final day in January. Studies show that 49 per cent of consumers are trying to consume less alcohol this year, which is a 44 per cent increase over 2023. Recent […]
Earlier this year, the provincial government announced that a new wholesale pricing model would be developed and introduced in January 2026. LCBO is taking the necessary steps to implement this new model based on a pricing formula that adds taxes, mark-ups, and fees to the supplier’s quote. The new pricing model closely aligns with industry standard […]
By Eric Brass, co-founder of Tequila Tromba Canadians have a long and storied history with alcohol, from bootlegging during prohibition to developing homegrown wines and liquors. One relatively untapped spirit in Canada is tequila. Distilled with the heart of the agave plant, this liquor has seen a sharp rise in popularity below the border in […]
Today’s economic uncertainty, persistent inflation, and supply chain interruption mean restaurateurs are laser-focused on maintaining their margins. Amid controversy with the U.S. and continued tariffs, imported liquor has been limited, prices are fluctuating, and profitability is the top priority. Cocktail menus can help raise guest cheques and set your restaurant apart, but careful consideration needs […]
Summertime is the perfect time to add food holidays to your calendar and get guests talking about your restaurant. There’s so much to celebrate in July, from Canada to chicken, and beyond! Here’s a look at some of the food holidays to choose from in July: July 1: Canada Day While not strictly a food […]
By Katie Belflower Our monthly edition of Trend Watch with Technomic features three menu trends that are gaining popularity across Canada right now, highlighting how Canadian restaurateurs are successfully incorporating them into their menus. This month’s edition focuses on unique cocktail rims, specific preparation time callouts, and ricotta toast. Unique cocktail rims Operators are adding […]
Beverages continue to play an important role on restaurant menus this year. From the functional to the health-conscious, hydration to happy hour, guests will be ordering off the drink menu this summer with wellness in mind. Colourful, fruity drinks are always popular once the warmer weather hits, but this year, tropical flavours are in hot […]
By Jacob Mancini As we enter the holiday season, breweries are offering more than just their usual seasonal brews. While pumpkin ales and festive stouts remain fan favourites, there’s a bigger change fermenting in the industry, one that goes beyond what’s in your glass. Breweries are starting to reimagine their spaces, evolving from production facilities […]
