Welcome to Restaurant Talk, our brand-new 2025 news outlet, replacing What’s Cooking? as your go-to roundup for the latest restaurant industry news. So, what’s the talk this January? 1. Italy seeks to protect restaurants and hotels from fake and paid-for reviews 🗣️What’s the talk: Italy is proposing a new law to protect restaurants, hotels, and […]
January is a time of renewal, and for many, this means embracing healthier habits. Google Trends offers an interesting glimpse into this shift, highlighting what’s on guests’ minds—and plates—as they navigate the start of the year. How to use google trends: Google Trends is a solid tool for tracking what’s buzzing online. You […]
What a year it’s been for the blog! We launched our monthly restaurant industry news round-up, ‘What’s Cooking?’, and had expert contributions from our in-house team: data driven Daniel, and SO-ME pro Triin. Here are your three hot topics: Click to jump to blog post No-shows: How well do you know your guests? Following the […]
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to serve up the best restaurant industry news! Pour yourself a glass of gløgg, kick back, and jump into the festive buzz brewing this holiday season. We’re starting with some must-know safety tips for the holiday madness (because no one wants drama with their dessert). Then, we’re […]
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and for restaurant owners and managers, it’s also the season to seize every opportunity to make the most out of some last-minute restaurant marketing. Here in Copenhagen, Hotel d’Angleterre sets the stage every year with an impressive Christmas display. And guess what? They’re not just stopping there; they’re offering […]
The restaurant industry can be intense—you don’t need a report to tell you that. But recent data from Glassdoor puts it into perspective: the restaurant sector leads all industries in employee burnout, with a score of 98 out of 100. But It’s not all bad news! Job satisfaction for food service workers has actually increased […]
All the leaves are brown, and the sky is… full of restaurant industry news! That can only mean one thing: it’s time for some fresh updates. So, what’s cooking this October? One thing’s for certain—some guests are still skipping out on their bills! In the UK, “Dash & Dine” is back and more aggressive than […]
This year, Halloween falls on a Thursday, known as ‘little Friday’ in Denmark. And on little Friday, be prepared to encounter a few ghosts in the form of no-shows—a term that continues to spook the restaurant industry. Here are 2 tricks and 1 treat from DinnerBooking HQ to stop no-shows from haunting your restaurant. Trick […]
With 31 fake bookings, Amazon ghost kitchens, and the secret sauce behind what makes great neighborhood restaurants, this serving of ‘What’s Cooking?’ is the restaurant industry gossip column you’ve been waiting for. Let’s get stuck in! The starter: Hoaxer makes 31 fake table bookings at restaurant Imagine that ☝️☝️ The BBC reports how one restaurant […]
Guess who’s back? It’s our social media expert Triin, and she is ready to jump-start your restaurant with enough SO-ME tips to make your feed sizzle! Be sure to stick around for her top 3 social media tips for restaurants. “Hey Triin, thanks for agreeing to another chat!” Triin: Absolutely, always happy to share my […]
It’s that time of the month—your quick snack of restaurant industry news, served up in the form of ‘What’s Cooking?’ A quick recap: How does it work? Our B2B marketing team scans the internet for the tastiest crumbs of restaurant industry gossip, allowing you to take 5 with a cup of coffee and soak it […]
Navigating the social media landscape can feel like quite a task. Which platforms should you use? What emojis are appropriate? Hash what? Tags—ah yes, hashtags. So, how can your restaurant up its social media game? Let’s find out from our marketing manager and social media pro, Triin. “Hey Triin – thanks for setting some time […]
It’s the holiday season for the restaurant industry, and we hope you are busy! Why not take five, grab a coffee, and scan through July’s serving of ‘What’s Cooking’? In this edition, UK diners are running away from the bill, labs are creating cell-based seafood, and Finnish media outlet ‘Helsingin Sanomat’ dares to spice things […]
Restaurant owners, your website isn’t just a showcase—it’s a powerful tool for converting visitors into guests. And the key to making this happen? Your booking button. What is a ‘Booking Button’? It’s that clickable icon on your website’s front page that directs guests straight to your booking page. In marketing terms, it’s your CTA (Call […]
Welcome to the June (and slightly Nordic-inspired) edition of ‘What’s Cooking?’, serving you the freshest restaurant industry buzz. We’ve been taking notes, and there’s a lot to celebrate in this round-up. From Nordic Michelin stars to Danish trends in plant-based eating… let’s cut the small talk and get stuck in! 1. The starter: ‘New michelin […]
Yesterday evening, the restaurant industry’s top players gathered in Helsinki to celebrate the Michelin guide Nordics 2024. This years hosts had a lot to celebrate, as Tapio in northern Finland, was awarded a star for the first time. We talked to the head of our Finnish team, Joonas, who joined the crowds in Helsinki to […]
Welcome to the first edition of ‘What’s cooking?’, your new go-to news round-up of what’s going on in the restaurant industry. Our team has carefully scanned the internet for the most appetising topics that we think could be relevant for you, curious, restaurant industry professionals. We know your schedule is tight but be sure to […]
Tired of reading the same standardised messages? Well, guess what? Your guests are too! It’s time to get personal. Written communication is like a dish best served hot—engage with your guests at every stage of the booking process and leave them hungry for more. In Part One of this two-part blog post, we showed you […]
Your restaurant is more than just a place to dine—it’s an experience, a story, and a journey. This is where brand identity comes into play: connecting every dish, every décor choice, and every interaction. Booking communication: A reflection of brand identity Brand identity is more than a logo and colors, it is about building […]
Picture this: tables are perfectly set, food is ready to go, yet your staff stands around with nothing to do. Sound familiar? It’s the dreaded off-peak hours. It’s time to get creative. (After all, those tables won’t fill themselves.) The solution: Event planning Hosting events is your golden ticket to unlocking fresh opportunities and drawing […]
Dry January – it comes as no surprise that the term is spiking on Google Trends. So, what does this mean for your restaurant? You need to sell more mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. As guests ride the health wave, gym memberships are booming, leaving your bookings as dry as the month of January. How can you […]
It was the busiest time of the year (Christmas and New Year’s) for the restaurant industry, and everyone was on edge—not only because of the high number of guests, but also because the main concern was: would they show up? Just like the world of dating, restaurants were getting stood up, and, in some cases, […]
As we rewind through the year, our blog served up a buffet of restaurant industry topics spicier than a jalapeño. You loved our post on Valencia’s top 50 restaurants, and for the romantics, our Valentine’s Day ideas were served with an extra helping of love. As we progress into 2024, let’s briefly revisit some food-for-thought […]
If you’ve ever explored our blog, you know we are keen followers of the Michelin Guide, especially when it comes to those restaurants striving for the sort-after stars. But a star isn’t everything… Ever heard of a “Bib” restaurant? Picture this: a delightful, simpler style of cooking that leaves you utterly satisfied, all at a […]
The food landscape is evolving, and dietary preferences, including veganism, are gaining momentum in Europe. Restaurant owners are right in the thick of this transformation, adapting and embracing change in the quest to provide an exceptional guest experience. Understanding that the guest journey begins with the booking, it’s not just important but truly essential to […]
Denmark’s capital boasts an internationally acclaimed restaurant scene. So, when 150 industry players meet for the first ever Digital Day conference, what’s on the agenda? The hot-button topic of restaurant digitalisation. Digital Day: More than just an event Digital Day is a landmark event for data in the Danish Restaurant Industry. In a world where […]
Sustainability… An ever-prevalent global topic gnaws at the conscience of restaurateurs. How can you even begin to think about environmental concerns, when your prime focus is on sustaining the business itself? Answer: Get double the benefit from a single action. What if there was a way to keep your restaurant thriving while simultaneously embracing green practices? […]
Season 2 of this captivating kitchen drama is back, exploring the idea of a more progressive and nurturing workplace for its team. The first season shed light on the often-toxic work environment present in restaurant kitchens, a topic that still holds the restaurant industry in its grip. With the latest season taking a more optimistic […]
As of July 2023, the Michelin Green Star, a symbol of sustainability, has been awarded to 456 restaurants worldwide. This leaf-coloured award recognizes restaurants that lead the way in sustainable practices. Join us on a tour of three of Europe’s Michelin Green Star Restaurants. Learn how they’ve become sustainability front-runners and read their advice to […]
Lighting. Lines. Angles. Colours. Resolution. These are all important factors to consider if you want to capture good photos of your team, restaurant, and dishes. Join us on this pixilated journey as we explore the importance of good restaurant photos and how to take them. “Say cheeeese!”. A few clicks later and you have a […]
Many restaurants in Europe don’t have enough staff to meet the demands of hungry guests. An understaffed restaurant risks having to turn down bookings and losing revenue. Let’s explore some strategies to help you and your team in times of understaffing. In Denmark, Horesta, the trade association and employers’ organization for the restaurant, hotel, and […]
Restaurants worldwide are increasingly embracing the insights derived from statistics and analytics data. Why? Because this data is a treasure trove bursting with insights that can enhance every aspect of a restaurant’s operations. From staff management and menu planning to customer review analytics, discover why munching on restaurant data is a recipe for a robust […]
Plastic packaging from takeaway food significantly contributes to the litter found in the world’s oceans. This debris harms the marine animals and plants that call the ocean home. By making more informed and responsible choices when selecting your restaurant’s food packaging, you can contribute to cleaner oceans. While it might seem like a small step, […]
On Thursday, March 30, 2023, the 50 best restaurants in Finland were announced at Helsinki Expo and Convention Center. The vote was held for the 15th time and one extraordinary restaurant, that recently kept its two world-famous Michelin Star-status, was named the best restaurant in Finland for the fourth consecutive year. Tune in for the […]
Chefs, restaurateurs, food writers, and all other foodies worldwide have been eagerly anticipating one of the most exciting events in the gastronomic calendar — the unveiling of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023, this year in Valencia. Now the entire list is finally here! This summer is filled with culinary awards and celebrations, and we […]
It was written in the stars that the list of Nordic restaurants included in the Michelin Guide would be a long one. A total of 42 restaurants have been added to the Michelin Guide Nordic 2023. Here are the highlights of restaurants in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden that made this year’s Michelin Guide […]
Midsummer, also known as the summer solstice, is a joyous celebration of summer. And there’s much to revel in – long days and warm evenings, an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, and that special feeling it brings to spend time outdoors in good company. Help your guests celebrate the magic by hosting culinary Midsummer […]
In 2022, Michelin introduced its first-ever Estonian guide, awarding well-deserved Michelin Stars and Bib Gourmand titles to exceptional restaurants in Estonia. On May 25, the Michelin Guide Estonia for 2023 was launched, featuring Estonia’s first two-star restaurant! Join us for a delicious journey through stars and gourmet titles! Estonia has a rich history, breathtaking forests […]
Many restaurants already celebrate Mother’s Day by creating tasty events. But what about Father’s Day? By creating a special event for the occasion, you can help guests treat their dads to a divine experience at your restaurant! Tune in for some fun Father’s Day ideas, learn when it’s time to commence the preparations, and how […]
The sound of forks and knives on plates, glasses clinking for a toast, the buzz of cosy dinner conversations, and relaxing tunes playing in the background – a restaurant’s soundscape is a crucial part of what creates the ambience that guests love when dining out. However, when the sound is too loud, it can have […]
Takeaway food is a convenient way to get food on the table. It helps us avoid having to clean up several kitchen utensils and spend precious time sweating over the stove trying to find that perfect balance between sweet and sour. Essentially, your takeaway food can be a lifesaver to busy families and a big […]
The artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT has been making headlines since the first prototype was launched in November 2022. ChatGPT can provide fashion advice for a friend’s birthday party, suggest recipes, and offer temporary companionship. With the latest update, the paid version can even pass the American bar exam. But can it also help restaurants? ChatGPT […]
Restaurant food is all about flavours, textures and beautifully plated dishes that thrill the eyes and tastebuds of guests. But what about their noses? Numerous studies have shown the importance of scents in our perception of just about everything reality has to offer. Naturally, we all know that food should smell good, but there’s more […]
Child-friendly restaurant – these three words can make many guests and restaurant workers tremble. Luckily, there are many ways of becoming a child-friendly or family-friendly restaurant. We’ve gathered 3 suggestions for restaurants that are interested in providing a good restaurant experience for the smallest guests, and perhaps even passing on their love of food by […]
Throughout the year, Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates in the entire world. By hosting events or putting together a special Mother’s Day menu, your restaurant can become part of the celebration and help your guests give their moms a memorable culinary experience that lasts longer than a bouquet of roses. Getting flowers is […]
As usual, spring made us wait impatiently to pack away our winter coats. But very soon your guests will grab every chance they get to enjoy a tasty meal in the sun. The value of a good outdoor dining season can’t be underestimated. Prepare now and become the restaurant guests flock to in the coming […]
Easter and spring will soon push winter away with festive celebrations, daffodils, coloured eggs and traditional Easter dishes. Many people are looking for restaurants that offer appetising Easter menus and events. Get inspired by these ideas and bunny-hop into the new season with more guests! Although Easter is a Christian holiday, it’s also very much […]
European energy prices are high and many countries are dealing with shortages. Saving energy always makes sense. But it’s even more crucial these days if you don’t want the electricity bill to shake your restaurant’s budget out of balance. As a restaurant owner, finding ways to save energy can help you protect your budget and […]
The winners of Bocuse d’Or 2023 have been announced! Tune in for the results, highlights of the contest, and the thoughts from one of the jury members. A big congratulations to Danish Brian Mark Hansen from Søllerød Kro and his assistant, Elisabeth Madsen, from Svinkløv Badehotel, who won gold at Bocuse d’Or 2023. The competition […]
Valentine’s Day is a popular day to dine out. This romantic holiday used to be an American phenomenon, but now it’s growing in Europe. Plenty of guests are just waiting for you to offer Valentine’s Day specials and events, so they can invite their special someone out for dinner, luxurious brunch or another culinary love […]
It might seem obvious what a restaurant’s purpose is. But all restaurants have missions, visions and values that make them unique. Defining yours in a written mission statement can help you develop a stronger restaurant brand and reach a wider group of guests. The mission statement also provides you and your staff with a clear […]
We’ve explored some sprouting restaurant trends that are likely to bloom in 2023. You can also read Finnish chef and restaurant owner Mattias Åhman’s thoughts on the trends.
When restaurant guests make a booking and never show up, they become no-shows. These guests are expensive for the industry. In the storms of the inflation’s financial downturn and higher prices, reducing no-shows is more crucial for restaurants than ever. It’s time for us to turn things around! According to a 2021 study no-shows […]
Do you want to stay one large step ahead in a world of foodies? Treat your guests to memorable dining events full of delicious surprises to make them hungry for more. With these 10 tips, you’re off to a flying start! Restaurant events that bring guests something more than just a tasty meal are among […]
Solo dining, what’s that all about? Dining in a restaurant is often associated with two or more people sharing a meal. But according to several studies, there are more and more solo diners out there. That means there’s a new guest group to consider. Learn why making solo diners feel welcome in your restaurant is […]
Your menu is often what gives new guests their first impression of your restaurant. A restaurant menu is much more than just a list of mouth-watering dishes and drinks. Did you know that there are a ton of ways you can use the menu to boost your restaurant’s profit? In this article, we’ll explore how! […]
Restaurant lighting is more important in the overall dining experience than you might think. Learn how direct or indirect lighting can impact guests’ first impressions of your restaurant. Or what kind of lighting and settings can make your guests stay for longer and much more. Interior light has proven to influence guests’ dining experience and […]
We don’t even want to imagine a world without restaurants. Not only because it’s our industry and passion, but also because restaurants breathe life into cities with alluring scents, cosy facades and a myriad of flavours waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore some restaurant facts to find out how we got here and where we’re […]
The restaurant guests of the future want memorable dining experiences. Restaurant events are among the latest and most popular industry trends. In December, Christmas and New Year’s events are especially popular. That’s good news for your restaurant because selling tickets for events can boost revenue while making things easier for you and your team! Restaurants […]
Cosy streets with sparkling Christmas lights, Wham on every playlist, and knitted sweaters with red-nosed reindeer. We’ve almost arrived at that magical time of the year. December is a lovely and busy time. But it’s also a time when the risk of stress increases for restaurant workers. We’ve put together a list of things that […]
Dining out should be an enjoyable experience. Tasty food, great company, and service that brings out a smile is all that’s needed, right? For guests with disabilities, a pleasurable dining experience also requires good accessibility. A place where they can relax and enjoy delicious food without having to worry about a bunch of things. Make […]
On November 8, the project We’re Smart® World published its latest ranking of the 100 best vegetable restaurants in the world. These restaurants aren’t necessarily vegetarian, but they excel in cooking delicious dishes where vegetables play the leading roles. During the last few years, more and more restaurant guests are looking for restaurants with a […]
The Michelin stars were drizzling down on Hungarian restaurants when the famous gourmet guide revealed its first-ever country-wide selection in the beautiful and diverse Central European country. This year seven restaurants each received 1 Michelin Star and two restaurants impressed the guide’s inspectors enough to be awarded 2 stars! The Michelin inspectors tasted their way […]
Google ranking and online visibility are essential for your restaurant’s success. These factors significantly impact your revenue, especially in the highly competitive restaurant industry. A well-implemented SEO strategy can boost profits and ensure that your restaurant tops the list when potential diners are searching online for their next meal. Effectively mastering SEO can help propel […]
Sometimes managing a restaurant can feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube — there’s often that one messy side. Whatever that side is for you today, tomorrow, and next year, there are restaurant people out there who know what you’re dealing with. They’ve been there and made it through to the other side, and now they’re […]
Bubbles, sparkly outfits, glitter confetti and delicious food — the last evening of the year has more party energy than any other! Invite your guests to a memorable New Year’s Eve at your restaurant and make them remember you whenever they want to dine out in 2023. As is the case with Christmas Eve, more […]
Did you know that the colours of food and dinnerware can have an impact on the overall dining experience? Come along on this colourful ride, get to know the do’s and don’ts and learn how to use colours to your advantage. Numerous studies have shown that colours play a role in the dining experience. For […]
Deck the halls with…well not quite yet, but even though we still haven’t carved our pumpkin lanterns, it’s time to think about Christmas events and promotions for your restaurant. Read our list and start planning today! Whether your restaurant is a go-to place for large company Christmas parties, or you just want to plan something extra […]
The spookiest holiday is just around the corner. Get your restaurant ready for the season of grinning pumpkins and sticky spiderwebs before Halloween blows through town with the autumn leaves. Did you know that Halloween is a more popular search term than Christmas? Sure, it does vary from country to country, but Halloween is no longer just an […]
Prices of food and electricity are soaring in Europe. This is making it harder for many restaurants to handle all their costs. Here are some cost-cutting tips to help you get your restaurant safely through inflation. The inflation is a real punch to European restaurants that recently struggled through two years of Covid lockdowns. […]
Music influences how much food and drinks restaurant guests order and how long time they stay. Let’s explore how you can shape guest experience with music.
Rikke and Morten Storm Overgaard are the owners and founders of sustainable and vegetarian Restaurant Moment. Their restaurant is situated in Mols Bjerge in Denmark by the entrance of the organic village Friland. In this interview, they share their thoughts on running a restaurant, conveying a deeper understanding of sustainability to guests, and what it […]
Do you know many people who aren’t on social media? We’re guessing it’s not enough to count on two hands. Everyone is scrolling away on various feeds. That’s why you need a good social media strategy if you want to attract new guests and remind regulars why they love your restaurant! So, what exactly is […]
Friday, August 26, the Danish newspaper Berlingske revealed the winners of Byens Bedste 2022. Byens Bedste, which translates to Best in Town, is a yearly occurring selection of Copenhagen’s best cultural and gastronomic experiences. From 75 nominees, voted for by readers, the Berlingske jury selected 15 extraordinary winners who all contribute to Copenhagen’s vibrant cultural […]
Do guests with food allergies feel safe eating at your restaurant? Learn why being an allergy-friendly restaurant is good for business!
Trends come and go year after year, some fade out while others stay and become the new normal. Our industry, the restaurant industry, needs these waves of new ideas to survive, thrive, grow and remain exciting for both guests and restaurant staff. A new era for the restaurant industry After almost two years of lockdowns […]
50 Next is created by the organization behind The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. It’s an unranked list of young people who are doing great things to shape the future of gastronomy. On June 24, 2022’s 50 Next line-up was revealed at a live ceremony in Bilbao. So, what is 50 Next all about? 50 Next […]
Working in a restaurant is exciting and challenging, but it can also be stressful when the sauce is boiling over, and the orders keep rolling in. Learn how you and your team can help each other reduce the risk of stress and burnout. Constant stress doesn’t have to be an everyday reality In […]
On July 18 the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 were revealed in London. This year’s ceremony, hosted by the Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci, marked the 20th anniversary of this important gastronomy event. A celebration of global culinary diversity This isn’t just another list. It’s a celebration of the many strengths and diversities of the global […]
Diners today are elevating their expectations. While seeking culinary experiences, they also expect a conscious commitment to sustainability from restaurants. This isn’t a fleeting trend or passing wave; it’s a fundamental shift that’s here to stay. Let’s dive into strategic ways your restaurant can become more sustainable while avoiding the pitfall of greenwashing. Get inspired […]
The complete list for the Michelin Guide Nordic has just dropped! The stars are truly shining on the Nordics. Take a look below to see where your next restaurant visit should be. On July 4th, the Michelin Guide presented a new selection of restaurants for the MICHELIN Guide Nordic Countries. The guide reveals an abundance […]
Umami is a basic taste that isn’t sweet, sour, salty or bitter. So, what does it taste like and how does it affect how your guests experience your food?
The winners of the postponed Nordic Food Awards Embla 2021 were announced in Oslo on June 20, 2022. The awards are divided into seven different categories that celebrate Nordic food and highlight all the talented people behind it. Embla celebrates many aspects of the Nordic kitchen Embla Nordic Food Awards, founded by The Nordic Farmers’ […]
Tracking your restaurant analytics can give you a lot more achievements to celebrate. Best of all — it doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s show you how tracking is the key to more restaurant bookings! The data you get from tracking makes it easier to spend money on the right things. This means that you […]
Reviews are the pulse of the restaurant industry, shaping its vibe as diners relish the chance to share their experiences. They’re not just the latest fad, reviews can bring in new guests and strengthen your brand. So let’s not just tolerate them, let’s celebrate them! In this article, we’re diving into how embracing guest reviews […]
The famous Michelin Guide has finally made its way to Estonia! This sparkling new guide includes 2 Michelin Stars, 2 Michelin Green Stars and 5 Bib Gourmands. On May 25, the Michelin Guide revealed its selection of Estonian restaurants. Being mentioned in the Michelin Guide, with or without stars, is a big deal for restaurants. A […]
On May 18, we could finally stop waiting. The list of Finland’s 50 best restaurants was announced at the Gastro Helsinki trade fair. This exciting gastronomy vote is organized yearly by Viisi Tähteä online media. 2022 was the 14th year. The result of a vote for Finland’s 50 best restaurants 2022 was announced on May […]
Nimb in the heart of Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens knows exactly what kind of fairy dust it takes to create memorable events. Learn how they do it! Have you ever embarked on a magical journey to Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen? Perhaps you paused to marvel at an enchanting Moorish-style palace adorned with a sophisticated onion dome. […]
Head chef and restaurant owner Nicolai Nørregaard from the Danish Michelin restaurant Kadeau has a love for the nature. Spending time outdoor picking the herbs and vegetables for his kitchen is connected to a deeper thinking of avoiding food waste. “When I spend time in the nature, I feel free.” – says Nicolai Nørregaard The […]
If you are working in the restaurant industry, you are probably familiar with no-shows – when guests fail to show at a reserved table. And we can probably all agree, that it is quite disconcerting – both because the restaurant will lose revenue and because it often results in food waste when the restaurant has […]
