Love is in the air

It's January. The New Year is done. Chinese New Year is a few days ahead. After that, what's next?

Yes, you got it. It's Valentines day! That means probably one of the busiest times for a restaurant. If you have not planned for Valentines day, you still have time to do so.

So what exactly do you want to do on Valentines?

You might say, "No, not the same 'dinner for two'...", "How about a family Valentine feast?" or what about a Chocolate buffet?

What promotion or special offer, if you have any, will be dependent on what is hot or most profitable in your locality. That will apply to your decision on the food, service, serving size and other promotions.

Valentines is mainly targetted towards couples, husbands and wives. Second would be families who eat out on February 14 with their children adn relatives. Next would probably be group of friends. Where I live, I have seen both. There are restaurants who target couples. Others stick to family diners.

As to the menu, it is usually items in the menu made extra special or named to suit the day like Heart Crepes with Chocolate Sauce or "Steak my Heart away" or something to that effect.

No matter what works for you, it is best to keep in mind, like other special occasions, this is no time to mess with the food. The food, the service, the place, all have to be special.

One thing I would like to remind restaurant managers is to take it easy on the heart shapes. Don't overdo it! Flowers would be expensive during these times but there are other ways to make a romantic setting. you may use candles, figurines, covered votives, rose petals (tell your florist to collect for you in advance), plants, pillows, music. Keep the heart shapes to invites, cake or dessert and flyers. Other than those, it just might get tacky.

Also, take it easy on the "red" color. Overdoing it might make others see red. Red is a great color but not to be overused on Valentines day.

One other thing is keep the good ambience going. Don't overpack your restaurant just because you want to optimize the day. Diners need some space.

So happy valentines day planning to you!