Category

Grab & Go

Beyond the Bean – Tips For Coffee Shop Success

By | Beverages, Coffee, Coffee Shop, Dairy, Grab & Go, Local

Running a successful coffee shop is no walk in the park—it’s a grind. To stand out from the competition, you need to brew up some unique ideas that capture your customers’ attention. One way to do this is by focusing on high-quality, unique ingredients that make your coffee shop the talk of the town. Here’s a breakdown of how you can use ingredients to bean the best around (pun intended).

Offer a Diverse Range of Non-Dairy Milks

Offering non-dairy milks is no small coffee feat. It’s about catering to vegan customers, those with dietary restrictions, and those that just want to stay on top of coffee trends, so your coffee shop is welcoming to everyone. Almond milk brings a nutty flavor, coconut milk offers a sweet twist, and oat milk is rich and creamy. By giving your customers a latte choices, you show that you’re serious about providing a tailored coffee experience.

  • #98291 – Almond Milk
  • #34119 – Califia Almond Milk
  • #2154 – Coconut Milk
  • #4191 – Califia Oat Milk
  • #93048 – Soy Milk

Embrace Local and Organic Dairy

If you’re udderly committed to quality, consider embracing local and organic dairy products. Sourcing from local farms ensures your dairy is fresh and supports the community, while organic options appeal to the health-conscious crowd. Featuring products like milk and cream from nearby sources gives your coffee shop a wholesome feel. It’s a moo-ving way to show your dedication to quality.

 OH & KY

  • #23275 – Chaney’s KY Whole, 4/GAL
  • #34025 – Legacy KY Whole, 4/GAL
  • #23258 – Snowville OH 2%, 9/64OZ
  • #18667 – Swallow Hill OH Whole, 4/GAL
  • #23299 – Chaney’s KY Chocolate, 9/Half GAL

COLORADO

  • #20702 – Morning Fresh CO 1%, 1 GAL
  • #20352 – Morning Fresh CO Whole, 1 GAL
  • #19815 – Morning Fresh CO Chocolate, 1 GAL
  • #24505 – Royal Crest 2% Half Gals, 6CT
  • #19821 – Organic Valley Whole, 4/1GAL

Take it to the next level: Make sure you are telling your coffee fans where your milk comes from. Think about including a map or sign to introduce the herd producing the milk you source.

Experiment with Flavored Syrups and Spices

Flavored syrups and spices are a great way to keep your coffee menu brewing with excitement. Get creative with chai, ginger, lavender, and pomegranate syrups. These can add a shot of flavor to your drinks, giving customers a unique experience every time they order. Seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can make your coffee shop the hottest spot when the weather gets chilly, whereas lavender or strawberry can keep it fresh in the spring. With over 45 flavors, Monin has options from Almond to White Chocolate and everything in between to really get your creativity going.  

Take it to the next level: Create unique spice blends for your lattes and cappuccinos, drawing inspiration from cuisines around the world. You can even offer “world tour” coffee drinks, each featuring a different cultural twist, keeping your menu as fresh as your coffee.

Encourage your patrons to come up with your next big flavor combo with a contest to recommend the next creative drink!

  • #97854 – Chai
  • #97849 – Ginger
  • #97883 – Lavender
  • #97880 – Pomegranate
  • #97831 – Swiss Chocolate

Search “MONIN” on the app for their 45+ flavors!

Looking for inspo? Monin has hundreds of recipes on hand for creative coffee and tea recipes using their flavors!  

Curate an Extensive Tea Selection

Tea is another brew-tiful way to stand out. A diverse tea selection appeals to a wider audience, and offering everything from classic black tea to herbal blends creates more reasons for customers to visit. Consider featuring local and organic teas to boost your shop’s sustainability cred. This way, even if someone isn’t feeling a cup of joe, they can still steep into something delightful.

Take it to the next level: Offer a “tea flight” where customers can sample a selection of teas, much like a wine tasting. Or have a special teatime each day with finger sandwiches, scones and tea cookies available as a platter.

  • #23304 – Matcha Powder, 100gram
  • #99633 – Blueberry Hibiscus, 50CT
  • #99651 – Chamomile Medley, 50CT

OH/KY/TN/IL/IN

  • #22704 – Bluegrass Breeze, 48/1OZ
  • #99588 – Tiger Spice Chai, 4LB
  • #99348 – Masala Chai Concentrate, 12/32OZ
  • #99532 – Peach Blossom, 1LB
  • #97990 – Iced Classic Black Tea, 24/1GAL

COLORADO

  • #19525 – Chai Concentrate, 6/32OZ
  • #23503 – Colorado Green Tea, 50CT
  • #23502 – Colorado Chamomile, 50CT
  • #23487 – Colorado Iced Hibiscus, 12/12OZ
  • #99634 – Early Grey, 50CT
  • #99633 – Blueberry Hibiscus, 50CT

Have a Variety of Delicious Grab & Go Pastries and Food Items

There is no need to have a full kitchen to show that your coffee shop has the recipe for success. Consider curating specialty baked goods like muffins, croissants and other pastries baked fresh and brought to you by What Chefs Want. By going the extra mile with delicious options you’ll have customers buzzing with excitement about your shop.

Take it to the next level: Make sure to include gluten free and dairy free options for your guests who may appreciate the extra care for their dietary restrictions.

  • #90468 – Croissant – Ghyslain
  • #95776 – Macarons – Ghyslain
  • #18938 – Grandola Granola – Ellas – GF
  • #90246 – Rolled Wafer Cookies
  • #33997 – Yumbana Chocolate Chip Cookies – GF
  • #33986 – Yumbana Blueberry Muffins – GF

Prioritize Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

Many customers prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness when choosing where to spend their money. Set yourself apart by using compostable cups, lids, and utensils. Offer incentives for customers who bring their reusable cups, and implement recycling and composting programs. Share your sustainability efforts with customers to show your commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment.

  • #99381 – Compostable Eco Cup 12OZ, 1000CT
  • #99382 – Compostable Eco Cup 16OZ, 1000CT
  • #99303 – Compostable Eco Lid 10-24OZ, 1000C

With these tips, you can create a coffee shop that’s the cream of the crop. Whether it’s through specialty drinks, carefully curated milks, or delicious pastries, the key is to serve up something unique that keeps customers buzzing. With the right combination of quality and creativity, your coffee shop will be steaming ahead of the competition in no time.

And of course – if you are looking for even more coffee shop essentials, search COFFEE on the app or ordering website to see the hundreds of options available, including many of the everyday essentials that you need.

  • #98206 – Filters, 2GAL, 500CT
  • #99094 – Wooden Stirrer 7″, 5000CT
  • #99319 – Espresso Cleaner, 12/20OZ
  • #99160 – Hot Paper Cup 16OZ, 1000CT
  • #99095 – Hot Lid 12-20OZ, 1000CT
  • #10584 – Cold Cup Sip Lid 12-24OZ, 1000CT

*All products may not be available in each region. Please check the app or reach out to your customer advocate for availability.

Creating Restaurant Wins for Health-Conscious Consumers

By | Beef, Chef's Feed, Gluten Free, Grab & Go, Grilling Essentials, Juice, Meats, Non-GMO, Produce, Retail Ready, Seafood, Sparkling Water, Vegan, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

Top tips for bringing together a healthy menu to appeal to your more health-conscious patrons

In a world where health-conscious dining is on the rise, restaurants are faced with the challenge of catering to a more discerning audience. The demand for nutritious, sustainable, and plant-based options is growing rapidly. To stay ahead of the curve and satisfy health-conscious patrons, chefs can implement strategic changes to their menus. In this blog post, we’ll explore five top tips to help you create restaurant wins for health-conscious consumers.

Lean into Functional Foods

Functional foods add health benefits beyond basic nutritional benefits like protein and fiber.

As the spotlight on mental health intensifies, adaptogens are a sought-after class of ingredients that are believed to help the body resist and adapt to stressors. One such adaptogen that is trending is saffron (item #97219). Saffron, known for its mood-boosting properties, lends a touch of luxury and emotional well-being to dishes. Saffron is believed to alter the concentrations of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain.

Prebiotics like buckwheat are non-digestible fibers or compounds found in certain foods that promote the activity and growth of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) in the gastrointestinal tract. Buckwheat (item #21111) is a gluten-free, nutrient-rich prebiotic food that is a good source of nutrients such as fiber, protein, magnesium, manganese, and antioxidants.

Probiotics like sauerkraut (like the Pickled Pig dill kraut – item #266752) and kimchi (like Napa kimchee item #26574) have beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive system.

Offer more plant-based entrees

As the demand for plant-based options continues to rise, consider expanding your menu to include more plant-based entrees, and we aren’t just talking salad here. Highlighting produce items as main attractions can be a game-changer. Create vegetable-based dishes and a variety of plant-powered choices will not only attract health-conscious customers but also contribute to the overall sustainability of your menu. For a hearty and satisfying option, consider the robust and savory Portabella mushrooms (item #30025, #30008 or #30030), perfect for grilling or roasting as a centerpiece in a plant-based dish. Jackfruit (item #90141) is also incredibly popular as a meat substitute in savory dishes like curries, stews, tacos, and sandwiches. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it a versatile ingredient in plant-based cooking.

Consider incorporating trendy and nutrient-dense ingredients like quinoa (item #19976), lentils (item #93806), and plant-based proteins to add depth and satisfaction to your plant-based offerings. Emphasizing the health benefits of these ingredients in your menu descriptions can resonate with health-conscious consumers, encouraging them to make nutritious choices when dining out.

Plant-based proteins with options like tofu (item #80024) and tempeh (item #99682) are also great additions. These protein-packed alternatives not only provide a substantial base for various dishes but also absorb the flavors of accompanying ingredients, making them ideal for creating diverse and delicious plant-based entrees.

To cater to those looking for a meaty experience without the animal products, consider incorporating Impossible Meats. This innovative plant-based meat substitute mirrors the taste and texture of traditional meat, providing a familiar yet entirely plant-based option for your health-conscious patrons. You can find Impossible Ground Pork (item #26939) or Impossible Ground Beef (item #03198).

Offer healthy drinks & mocktails

Extend your commitment to health-conscious dining beyond the food menu by introducing healthy drinks and mocktails. Incorporate trendy options like kombucha, known for its probiotic benefits. Craft refreshing mocktails using fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices to provide a non-alcoholic alternative that complements your menu.

If you are looking for a great Kombucha to add to your lineup you can try Elixir (search Elixir in the app), with flavors like Blueberry Pomegranate, Harvest Cider, Lavender Lemonade, Pineapple Ginger and Raspberry Limeade if you are in the Midwest/central region. Or try Rowdy Mermaid (search Rowdy Mermaid in the app) if you are in our Colorado region, in flavors like Strawberry Tonic, Watermelon Bloom, Hello Ginger or Savory Peach.

Collagen is still having its moment right now as well. Collagen is often associated with its potential to promote skin health, joint health, and overall well-being. Circle is a sparkling collagen water focused on making healthier options accessible, enjoyable and affordable. Circle comes in flavors like Raspberry Hibiscus (item #22710), Lemon Mint (item #22711), Vanilla Pear (item #22712) and Watermelon Thyme (item #22713).

Use our Natalies juices or our variety of purees to craft creative and healthy alternatives to alcoholic cocktails and garnish them with something from our huge variety of edible micro flowers.

Showcase sustainable & healthy seafood

Highlighting sustainable seafood serves as an opportunity to educate consumers about making ethical choices in seafood consumption. Collaborate with trusted suppliers adhering to sustainable practices to build transparency and trust with your health-conscious clientele. Sustainable seafood not only offers ecological benefits but is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, providing a nutrient-dense and heart-healthy dining option. Consider featuring seasonal and local seafood options to emphasize freshness and reduce the carbon footprint. By showcasing sustainable seafood, you contribute to your customers’ well-being and play a role in preserving the delicate balance of our oceans for future generations.

Mariblu shrimp holds a prestigious 4-star BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) certification, which is a testament to our unwavering commitment to responsible and sustainable aquaculture practices. This 100% phosphate-free shrimp comes in a large variety of sizes to fit your menu needs. You can find our Mariblu shrimp options by searching Mariblu on our ordering app or site.

Laguna Blanca Salmon is another wonderful healthy option. This antibiotic-free salmon stands out for its eco-friendliness, produced with notably less impact on the wild fish population, and is BAP and ASC certified. The Laguna Blanca salmon is raised on an algae diet which ensures it is a rich source of omega-3s, making it not only delicious but also healthy. You can find these options on our site by searching Laguna Blanca.

Educate consumers about your menu items

Share the story behind your menu items to educate consumers about the health benefits of your dishes and their origins. For instance, highlight unconventional healthy protein options or promote antibiotic-free meat. Mention reputable producers and what makes them so special to build trust and transparency with your customers. Incorporate this information into your menu descriptions or create a separate section dedicated to the health-conscious choices available.

For example: Make sure when talking about duck on the menu, that in the description you mention the  lower fat and calorie content compared to many other meats, making it a winning pick for those who crave incredible flavors while upholding a balanced diet. Take it a step further and share the details of the source. If you are using our Maple Leaf Farm duck you can share their particular dedication to sustainability and quality.

Or share the story of Joyce Farms chicken and their belief that small farmers, with their deep caring and passion for the animals, are the best at raising them, often using age-old artisan methods passed down through generations. They use no pesticides, animal by-products, hormones, growth stimulators or antibiotics EVER.

Creekstone Farms Angus Beef stands out for its commitment to quality and ethical practices in beef production. Embracing organic farming principles and ensuring humane animal handling, they prioritize a farming approach free of antibiotics and hormones. With a dedication to transparency, Creekstone Farms is not only passionate about delivering premium Angus beef but also strives to educate customers and consumers about the origins of their food, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for sustainable and responsible farming practices.

Highlighting producers like these add value to your menu items and make your patrons feel good about the choices they make at your restaurant.

Create easy healthy grab-and-go options

Recognizing the fast-paced lifestyles of many customers, offer easy and healthy grab-and-go options. To-go parfait cups filled with nutritious ingredients, such as Greek yogurt, fresh fruits, and granola, make for a convenient and satisfying choice. Consider other portable options like salads in a jar or protein-packed snack boxes to cater to health-conscious consumers on the move.

We have the perfect Parfait Combo Kit + Lid (item #34031) for your grab and go needs! This clear cup is a portable, fast, convenient, and easy-to-use package for yogurt parfaits and savory snack combinations.

Grandola Granola is a gourmet granola that’s made by hand, cured, nut free, gluten-free, and vegan with flavors like Autumn (item #18929 – Chai/Pumpkin spice with apricots and cranberries) and Ella’s Favorite (item #18932 – Madagascar vanilla, cherries and cranberries).

Pair granola with Greek or regular yogurt for easy options for your customers!


By incorporating these top tips, chefs can successfully cater to health-conscious consumers, fostering a dining environment that aligns with the growing demand for plant-based, sustainable, and transparent culinary choices. This strategic approach not only expands your customer base but also plays a vital role in enhancing the well-being of your patrons. Adapting to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers isn’t merely a passing trend; it’s a fundamental strategy for ensuring enduring success in the dynamic restaurant industry.

* Some featured items may not be available in all regions. Please contact your customer advocate for substitutions or new fresh, healthy menu ideas.

Item of the Day: VerTerra 3 Compartment Bento Box 

By | Chef's Feed, Grab & Go, Item of the Day, Paper / To-Go, What Chefs Want

VerTerra 3 Compartment Bento Box 

From VerTerra – Our “Bento in a Box” offers the elegance of our VENTO collection with the economic pricing of a paper board box. 

Made with Kraft Paper with an RPET liner, this line is water and oil proof for days providing a long shelf life. Three separate compartments with dividers that go 90% up prevent food from mixing, and 4 locks (2 top and 2 front panel) ensures the food travels to guests.

With our patented fold back lid so you feel like you are eating off a plate not out of a clamshell.

Our bento box is perfect for catering events, to-go orders, and event hosting for easy food transportation. The best part? It’s made with 100% recyclable materials.

Item 27240- 9×7 3 Compartment Box 200 CT Case 

Introducing 2 new exciting flavors from Phocus Sparkling Water!

By | Beverages, Chef's Feed, Coffee Shop, Grab & Go, Local, Local and Specialty, Mixology, Products, Retail Ready, Sparkling Water, Tea, Vegan, What Chefs Want

Crisp Apple Sparkling Water

Item 25958 – 12 count case

Tart. Tangy. Juicy apple taste with a burst of fresh-from-the-orchard flavor in every sip.

Mixed Berry Sparkling Water

Item 25959 – 12 count case

Blackberry and raspberry joined together in fruit-forward harmony.

Each can of Phocus contains 75mg of caffeine and is infused with L-theanine for a smooth boost of energy and focus without the crash.

Search Phocus on our app or website for more flavors.