Independent restaurant operators are leading an emerging “kid-adult” fusion trend by promoting adult-style offerings to kids in greater numbers, according to a new report by Chicago-based research firm Technomic Inc.
The new menus target kids with smaller portions of premium steaks, fresh fish, locally sourced healthy foods and bolder ethnic flavors that are usually the domain of adult palates, said the report, titled “2009 Kids’ Marketing & Menu Report.”
The report provides in-depth analysis of the Kids’ Menu category for the 250 largest chain restaurants, as well as leading emerging chains and independents.
“The ability to develop menu offerings around a local, organic or natural culinary focus is a trademark of independent concepts that operate in the higher-end, fine-dining realm,” said Darren Tristano, executive vice president at Technomic. “Parents who value these attributes in food are beginning to steer their children away from mac-and-cheese and chicken-finger entrees in favor of fresh seafood, baked or grilled chicken, organic vegetables and premium cuts of meat. This trend has notable trickle-down potential for the Top 250 chains.”
Other common tactics used by limited-service chains are the menuing of kids’ combo meals, availability of toys and prizes, Web sites with online activities, birthday clubs and play areas, while full-service chains often promote “kids eat free” nights, birthday clubs and family sized to-go meals.
Other interesting findings in the report include: