After all the excitement of New Year's, what happens between now and Spring Break? Don't succumb to a lull in traffic — embrace it.

This is the perfect time to implement all of those ideas you've been putting on the back burner. Here are some of our own ideas that could work to generate some business during slower weeks.

Cooking Classes

Consider hosting cooking classes on slow business periods during the next few months. This is a creative business builder to get people learning about your great food, quality ingredients, and talented staff. Do this in conjunction with a wine or beer tasting so that your customers can try some libations, preferably local, they may not have had. Consider offering a theme of healthy dishes for those looking to cut back on calories after the holidays, but remember that comfort food is helping folks get through the winter as well. These can be great marketing pieces as well as revenue drivers.

Don't Wait For Them To Come To You

Break out your savvy marketing skills to get the word out. Start texting and emailing your customers to remind them of special events, limited-time offers, tastings, or customer appreciation discounts. If you have a customer database, consider texting or emailing them on their birthday or anniversary. And don't forget Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, even TikTok. If you have been putting off starting a social media account — now is the time!

To-Go

To-go orders are obviously a huge part of your business right now, but they can actually spike post-New Year's due to people still seeking the convenience of food without wanting to risk the weather or being around large groups of people. Put an emphasis on to-go meals or package deals to-go. Try an appetizer, two salads, two entrées, and a dessert for a set price.

2022 Gatherings

Consider running a catering special or event special on 2022 gathering packages. Partner with schools, food banks, businesses, and other non-profits to raise money and supplies for those in need. Suggest that businesses send meal packages to employees in lieu of an in-person event. 2022 deals and events can push revenue, while allowing small businesses to offer an unexpected perk.

Experiment

Most restaurants don’t have much time for research and development. Use this time to your advantage to work on new service applications, menu features, cocktail recipes, or whatever it is you have dreamed of trying but never got the chance to do.