Incorporating Locally Sourced Foods

Today’s consumer places a high premium on knowing exactly what they are eating and where it comes from. For that reason, many restaurants are turning toward locally sourced ingredients, which are better for the environment and tend to taste better too. Here are a few ways you can incorporate locally sourced ingredients into your menu.

• Check out farmers’ markets. They can usually provide what you need or point you in the direction of someone who can, and you might be inspired by a find you didn’t realize was in season.


• Communicate with customers. A customer who loved a particular dish might be disappointed to find it out of season – but you may be able to manage their experience by letting them know when the dish might be available again, and also recommending something with similar flavors. As a local sourcing restaurateur, you are in a position to guide the tastes of your guests. Embrace it.


• Do your research. Read up on when various ingredients will be in season, so you’ll know what to expect.  Vendors at farmers’ markets make a great source, since they are also growers. It’s important to plan ahead so your menu will align with the ingredients you can actually get.


• Keep the menu short. A longer menu is more difficult to fill out with locally sourced ingredients.


• Believe in your mission. Be willing to stand up to the challenges of sourcing your products locally. Be a champion of the quality of your food!