Is vegetarian food for bean counters?
Avila and Wright say margins on vegetarian dishes are comparable to those delivered by their other menu offerings. “The margin on some dishes, like a traditional bean burrito, may be higher, but on a cactus salad with papaya and more expensive ingredients, the food cost is higher,” Avila notes. One interesting point about vegetarian dishes is that, while the margin per plate may be comparable to non-vegetarian items, food costs can improve with vegetarian options on the menu. “Vegetables don’t spoil nearly as quickly as meat or fish, so you’re able to keep them longer,” Wright says. In the end, the fact that more diners are asking for health-conscious meals wins the day. “We’ve asked people for comments on our menus, and they’ve told us they are glad we’re taking it seriously,” Wright says.
