There’s a reason why bread and butter often appear before anything else on a menu. It’s the first taste, the initial impression. It sets the stage for the dining experience to come.
From the simplest rolls to complex, artisanal sourdough, the bread selection says a lot about a restaurant. And, of course, the butter matters, too. Is it salted? Unsalted? Whipped?
This article will explore the different types of bread and butter offerings you might find on various menus, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Bread varieties: from simple to sourdough
There are so many different types of bread these days that the bread basket is often a real showcase of what a restaurant has to offer. Here are a few types you may see:
Sourdough and vegan options
Sourdough bread is more popular than ever, and many restaurants now offer it. Sourdough is often naturally vegan, which is a plus for many diners.
If you’re vegan, just be sure to ask about the ingredients. Some breads have cheese baked into them, and of course, the butter served alongside the bread will likely be dairy butter.
Other bread types
Beyond sourdough, you might also find bagels, croissants, rolls, multigrain, or challah in your bread basket. Some restaurants sell day-old bread at a discount, so that’s something to ask about, too.
Butter and Spreads: More Than Just an Add-On
The type of butter a restaurant serves with its bread can really elevate the experience. From salted to unsalted, whipped to flavored, there’s a lot of room to play.
Some restaurants are also experimenting with alternatives to butter, or offering them alongside. Olive oil is a popular choice, especially when paired with herbs and spices. Hummus and tapenades can also add a Mediterranean flair.
Using high-quality, locally sourced butter is another way to impress diners and show a commitment to fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Bread as Part of a Larger Menu
Bread isn’t just a side dish; it’s the foundation for some of the most popular and comforting foods we enjoy every day.
Bread in Breakfast Offerings
Think about it: bagels slathered with cream cheese, flaky croissants, warm toast with jam, or a hearty breakfast sandwich. All rely on a delicious bread component.
And let’s not forget bread-adjacent options like pancakes, waffles, and crepes – all variations on the theme that make mornings brighter.
Bread in Lunch and Dinner
For lunch and dinner, bread steps up its game. Sandwiches, from the simple to the sublime, wouldn’t exist without it. And who can resist a juicy burger nestled between the halves of a perfectly toasted bun? At [Restaurant Name], we use only USDA Certified Black Angus for our burgers, showcasing our commitment to quality ingredients.
Bread also shines as an appetizer, whether it’s in the form of crispy breadsticks, savory garlic bread, or a vibrant bruschetta.
Menu Considerations and Special Diets
If you’re offering bread and butter, make sure your menu descriptions are clear. List the ingredients and describe how it’s prepared, including any potential allergens.
Consider offering gluten-free or vegan bread options to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. You might also provide plant-based butter alternatives.
If possible, highlight your sourcing practices. Let guests know if you use locally sourced ingredients or ethically raised dairy products. Customers are increasingly interested in the origins and quality of their food.
Key Takeaways
Bread and butter may seem like a simple thing, but it’s often the first taste a guest has of your restaurant. That makes it an important way to welcome your customers.
Whether you choose a classic baguette with European-style butter, a unique flavored bread with a compound butter, or another combination, there are many ways to make your bread and butter service special.
Using high-quality ingredients and presenting them thoughtfully can make a lasting impression.