Ever wondered what all the options are when you sit down at a restaurant? That’s what “menu pats” refers to — a restaurant’s offerings of various food choices. A well-designed menu is key to attracting customers and showing off what a restaurant is all about. Think of it as a first impression and a brand statement all rolled into one.
Today, menus are incredibly diverse, with everything from appetizers to desserts and sides. And with more people looking for gluten-free, vegan, and other specialized menu pats, restaurants are working hard to keep up with the demand.
This article will explore the common categories and things to consider when looking at a typical restaurant menu.
Appetizers, Soups, and Salads
Before we dive into the main courses, it’s worth talking about the dishes that often come first: appetizers, soups, and salads.
Appetizers
Appetizers are small dishes that get the meal rolling. Think of them as the opening act, setting the stage for the flavors to come. You know the usual suspects: garlic bread, cheese bread sticks, maybe some chicken wings if you’re feeling festive. A good appetizer does more than just fill a little space; it teases the palate and gets you ready for what’s next.
Soups
Soups are liquid dishes, and most often, they’re served hot. Soups can be creamy and rich, light and brothy, or something in between, like a bisque. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in need of some comfort, a bowl of soup can be a versatile and welcome option.
Salads
Salads are a mix of raw or cooked vegetables, often tossed with a dressing. From a simple tossed salad to a more elaborate Caesar, salads offer a lighter, often healthier choice. And these days, everyone’s looking for ways to customize their meals, so salads are a great way to offer that flexibility. (Don’t forget the heartier options, like a Chicken Pasta Salad, for those who want something more substantial.)
Pizza and Calzones
Pizza is a classic for a reason! It’s a crowd-pleaser, and we make ours with a variety of crust options to suit every taste. Choose from our traditional thin crust, a hearty double dough, wholesome whole wheat, or lighter lo-carb, gluten-free, or even cauliflower crust. And the toppings? The sky’s the limit! We’ve got all your favorites, plus some signature pizza creations you won’t find anywhere else.
Our plain pizza starts at just $9.25 for a 9-inch pie and $15.00 for a 14-inch.
Craving something a little different? Try one of our calzones! A calzone is basically a pizza that’s been folded in half and baked (or sometimes fried). Think of it as a turnover made with pizza dough. Like pizza, calzones are completely customizable. You can fill them with just about anything you can imagine. They’re great for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, and they’re easy to eat on the go.
Sandwiches, Burgers, and Roll-Ups
Sometimes you just want something you can pick up and eat, right? Here are some handheld options to consider.
Hot Subs & Sandwiches
There’s nothing quite like a hot, melty sub or sandwich for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Load ’em up with your favorite fillings: sliced deli meats, cheeses, grilled veggies, savory sauces… the possibilities are endless! Steak subs are always a popular choice, too.
Burgers & More
The burger: it’s an American classic for a reason! Whether you’re a beef patty purist or prefer turkey or veggie burgers, the toppings are where you can really get creative. Crispy lettuce and tomato, melted cheese, sauteed onions, crunchy pickles, creamy mayo, tangy mustard… Build the burger of your dreams!
And “more” doesn’t just mean burgers, of course. Think grilled or fried chicken sandwiches, crispy fish sandwiches, or maybe even a juicy portobello mushroom cap.
Roll-Ups
Roll-ups, also known as wraps, are the perfect choice when you’re on the go. They’re basically portable packages filled with deliciousness! Deli meats, cheeses, crisp veggies, and flavorful sauces all come together in a soft tortilla for a quick and easy meal. They’re endlessly customizable, so you can always find a roll-up to satisfy your cravings.
Dinners and Sides
When you’re looking for a complete meal, our “Dinners” section has you covered. We’re talking about fully realized plates, usually with a main course and a couple of sides. Think comfort food, done right.
Take, for example, our spaghetti or ziti dinners. You can go classic with just the pasta and sauce, or you can amp it up with meatballs, meat sauce, or sausage. We aim to have something for everyone, whatever your taste.
- Spaghetti/Ziti Dinner: $6.50
- With Meatballs: $8.35
- With Meat Sauce: $8.50
- With Sausage: $8.85
Of course, no good meal is complete without some killer sides. That’s where our “Sides” menu comes in. These are the supporting players that round out your dining experience.
We’ve got all the usual suspects: fries (regular and waffle), sweet potato fries, onion rings, coleslaw, and steamed broccoli. Whether you’re craving something crispy, sweet, or green, we’ve got a side to match.
- French Fries: $5.00 / $7.00
Kid’s Menu and Payment Options
When you’re trying to please a crowd, it helps to have a few tricks up your sleeve. Here’s what Pat’s offers for the younger set, along with how you can pay for your meal.
Kid’s Menu
If you’ve got little ones in tow, you’ll be glad to know that Pat’s offers a dedicated kid’s menu, with smaller portions and kid-friendly choices. You can expect to find classics like chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and mini burgers. Kid’s sides, such as fries or apple slices, go for about $1.99.
Payment Options
For your convenience, Pat’s accepts a variety of payment methods. You can use American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and Diners Club. By offering multiple payment options, Pat’s aims to make your dining experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Conclusion
A great restaurant menu should offer a balance of appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts, with prices that are competitive and descriptions that are enticing. A well-designed and varied menu is one of the best ways to attract new customers and keep regulars coming back for more.
But a restaurant menu can’t stay the same forever. Savvy restaurant owners and chefs keep up with current food trends and incorporate dishes that cater to the growing demand for gluten-free, vegan, and other specialized options.
Ultimately, a menu is more than just a list of what a restaurant has to offer. It’s a critical communication tool that tells potential customers who you are, what you value, and what they can expect when they walk through your door.