Category: Food & Beverage Operations

Optimize your hotel’s F&B operations from kitchen to table. Learn restaurant management, menu engineering, kitchen efficiency, hygiene standards, and service excellence strategies that boost revenue while controlling costs.

  • The Sober Trend in Hospitality

    The Sober Trend in Hospitality

    Due to a greater emphasis on health, many individuals today request drinks with reduced or no alcohol content. They want to visit pubs but not consume as much alcohol as they once used to.

    Every time you go out to eat or interact with others, alcohol consumption is assumed. Because of the development of non-alcoholic beverages, non-drinkers now have options that were frequently unavailable in the past.

    Nowadays bartenders are getting inventive by preparing fermented fruit tonics and using them in their handmade sodas because making complicated non-alcoholic cocktails is undoubtedly more difficult. Some people are perfecting their own kombucha, a wonderful fermented beverage that is non-alcoholic and has a long list of health benefits. But which companies actually stay up to date with this latest trend?

    Hyatt, USA

    Numerous Hyatt hotels across the United States now offer sophisticated spirit-free beverage alternatives thanks to Hyatt’s new Zero Proof, Zero Judgment program, which uses Ritual Zero Proof and Fever-Tree products. The mission of this program is to create thoughtful, hospitality-driven experiences for everyone and raise awareness about health and well-being.

    A Hyatt poll revealed that, despite the fact that people frequently opt to indulge while traveling, nearly 50% of respondents preferred non-alcoholic beverages to beer or cocktails.

    The Merrion, Ireland

    Although you may not expect to discover alcohol-free alternatives in Ireland’s capital, the zero-proof revolution has spread throughout the entire country. The hotel started distilling “Artonical,” a zero-proof gin produced from botanicals like juniper, angelica root, lemon, orange, and grapefruit, as part of its non-alcoholic Irish spirit program. The private label spirit is showcased in a variety of vibrant combinations on the iconic “NoLo” mocktail menu.

    IHG, USA

    In order to integrate this escalating consumer demand across the IHG brand portfolio, a tea collaboration between Hotel Indigo and Steven Smith Teamaker’s took place. Since January, Hotel Indigo locations have offered healthy herbs, roots, and spice teas. Ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, and other useful, high-immunity components are included in the teas. Other IHG properties, like Regent, put a lot of effort into developing a bar menu with interesting alcohol-free options, such as mocktails.

    The sober trend in hospitality is more than just a passing fad—it’s a reflection of a broader cultural shift toward mindful consumption and inclusivity. As more individuals prioritize health and well-being, hotels, bars, and restaurants are adapting by offering innovative non-alcoholic options that rival traditional cocktails in complexity and flavor. With major brands like Hyatt, The Merrion, and IHG leading the way, it’s clear that the future of hospitality is not just about what’s in the glass, but about personal experiences for all guests.

  • What is Melamine? Understanding the Material

    What is Melamine? Understanding the Material

    Melamine has become a buzzword in the restaurant industry, but what exactly is this material that’s taking the foodservice world by storm? As a professional in the hospitality sector, understanding the ins and outs of melamine can help you make informed decisions about your dinnerware choices. Let’s dive into the world of melamine and explore why it’s becoming the go-to material for restaurant tableware.

    Composition and Properties

    At its core, melamine is an organic compound rich in nitrogen. When combined with formaldehyde, it forms a durable resin that can be molded into various shapes. This resin is then mixed with other materials to create the melamine plastic we see in dinnerware.

    The resulting material boasts several impressive properties:

    1. Durability: Melamine is highly resistant to breaks, chips, and scratches.
    2. Heat Resistance: It can withstand temperatures up to 160°F (71°C) without degrading.
    3. Lightweight: Despite its durability, melamine is surprisingly light.
    4. Versatility: It can mimic the appearance of other materials like porcelain or wood.

    These properties make melamine an ideal choice for busy restaurant environments where durability and aesthetics are equally important.

    Advantages for Restaurants

    The unique properties of melamine translate into several advantages for foodservice establishments:

    1. Cost-Effective: While the initial investment might be higher than disposable options, the longevity of melamine makes it more economical in the long run.
    2. Reduced Breakage: The durability of melamine means fewer replacements due to breakage, saving both money and time.
    3. Improved Safety: Its lightweight nature reduces the risk of injuries from heavy plates, especially in high-volume settings.
    4. Versatile Design Options: Melamine can be molded and colored to suit any restaurant theme or style.
    5. Easy Maintenance: Most melamine products are dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process.

    Manufacturing Excellence

    While understanding the material is crucial, it’s equally important to consider the manufacturing process. Companies like Freeway Homes, based in India, have set new standards in melamine production. As founder Niraj Makharia states, “Our team of experts, along with advanced technology, has worked tirelessly to create beautifully designed, safe, and long-lasting products.”

    Freeway Homes’ dedication to manufacturing excellence ensures that the melamine products they produce meet the highest quality standards. Their factories in Delhi’s Bawana Industrial area focus on delivering excellence at every step of the manufacturing process, from raw material selection to final product inspection.

    Environmental Considerations

    While traditional melamine is not biodegradable, innovations in the industry are addressing this concern. Some manufacturers now offer eco-friendly melamine options that incorporate sustainable materials like bamboo fibers. These products maintain the durability and versatility of traditional melamine while reducing environmental impact.

    Choosing the Right Melamine Products

    When selecting melamine dinnerware for your establishment, consider the following factors:

    1. Quality: Look for products from reputable manufacturers known for their commitment to excellence.
    2. Design: Choose styles that complement your restaurant’s aesthetics and enhance food presentation.
    3. Functionality: Consider the specific needs of your establishment, such as stackability for storage or heat retention for certain dishes.
    4. Safety Certifications: Ensure the products meet relevant food safety standards.

    Here is an infographics published by Singapore Food Agency

    Is melamine food ware safe to use?
    Is melamine food ware safe to use?

    In conclusion, melamine is a versatile and durable material that offers numerous benefits for restaurant dinnerware. Its unique properties, combined with advancements in manufacturing processes, make it an excellent choice for foodservice professionals looking to balance durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness. As the industry continues to innovate, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in melamine technology, further cementing its place as a staple in restaurant tableware.

    By understanding the composition, properties, and advantages of melamine, you can make informed decisions about your dinnerware choices, ultimately enhancing your guests’ dining experience and your restaurant’s operational efficiency.