ROSEMONT, IL – US Foods is introducing a new Summer Scoop product line inspired by family dining that restaurants can add to their menus.
“With this Summer Scoop product line we are changing the way families dine together by providing new menu offerings that will please the palates of even the pickiest family members,” said Pietro Satriano, Chief Merchandising Officer, US Foods. “Nearly 90 percent of families choose a restaurant based on its kid-friendly environment and more than 60 percent of parents want more interesting options on a kids’ menu. With this product line, we are providing operators with the products they need to capture this audience and keep their tables filled all summer long.”
The Monach Puzzle Potatoes are one of the most kid friendly additions and are delicious and fun to eat. They are designed in puzzle shapes to bring entertainment and eating together. The new Harbor Banks Basil Cod Fries pair with cod, one of the healthiest sources of low-calorie protein and omega-3s, and the new Devonshire Cake Pops are a fun way to end the meal for children and adults alike.
Aside from the new menu, the line includes an exclusive 3-D customizable coloring placemat that allows kids to see their images come to life in 3-D with the “colAR Mix” app available from iTunes and Google Play.
The company is also introducing two new Italian sausages from famed meat purveyor Pat LaFrieda, according to a press release. The Chef’s Line Hot Italian Sausage and Sweet Italian Sausage are made using traditional recipes. Another new item is the winning item from the US Foods 2013 Next Top Product Contest, the Chef’s Line Black Bean Burger.
Keeping adults in mind too, US Foods added two new pasta options. The Chef’s Line Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Mezzelune and the Buffalo Milk Ricotta, Spinach and Rapini Tondi add an updated twist to classic stuffed pasta.
“Creating a menu that will satisfy both kids and their parents is only one part of making a restaurant family friendly,” said Satriano. “That’s why we’re searching for restaurants that represent the best in helping families enjoy the entire dining experience together.”
Building on the family theme, US Foods is excited to launch the Top Family Friendly Restaurants contest to search for the best family restaurants in the country. Restaurants will be judged on their family friendliness, kid’s menus and overall fun environment. Ten finalists will be chosen by a panel of culinary experts, including a judge from Rachael Ray's Yum-o! organization. The judging panel will announce five winners on September 2, 2014 who will each receive $2,000 worth of culinary equipment and supplies and be featured in the 2014 winter issue of Food Fanatics Magazine.
Restaurants can enter through July 18, 2014 by clicking here.
