Brunch is Booming: How Rice Can Elevate Your Mid-Morning Menu
Why Brunch is a Profitable Must-Have for Restaurants
Brunch has solidified itself as a billion-dollar industry in the restaurant world, with demand skyrocketing post-pandemic. According to the National Restaurant Association, brunch traffic has increased by 20% since 2021, with customers willing to spend 40% more per meal compared to traditional breakfast offerings[1]. The brunch crowd prioritizes Instagram-worthy dishes, comfort foods, and global flavors—making rice the perfect ingredient to elevate and expand any mid-morning menu.
From savory breakfast risottos to sweet arroz con leche, rice-based dishes offer high-margin, versatile options that cater to evolving customer preferences while keeping food costs low.
Creative Rice-Based Brunch Items to Add to Your Menu
1. Arroz con Leche: The Sweet Brunch Staple Customers Love
Why it works: Rice pudding is a beloved comfort food found in cuisines worldwide, making it an excellent addition to diverse brunch menus.
Menu Inspiration:
- Berry Arroz con Leche – Topped with macerated strawberries and mint.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate Rice Pudding – Spiced with cinnamon and a hint of cayenne.
- Coconut & Mango Sticky Rice Pudding – A tropical, dairy-free alternative.
Consumer Demand:
Google Trends reports a 35% increase in searches for rice pudding recipes since 2022[2],indicating rising interest in this nostalgic dish.
2. Savory Rice Bowls: A Global Take on Breakfast
Why it works: Rice bowls fit perfectly into the growing“all-day brunch” trend, offering protein-packed, customizable options that cater to health-conscious diners.
Menu Inspiration:
- Korean Bulgogi & Fried Egg Rice Bowl – A hearty dish with sweet-savory marinated beef.
- Curried Chickpea & Jasmine Rice Bowl – A vegan-friendly powerhouse meal.
- Cajun Shrimp & Cheesy Grits-Style Rice – A Southern-inspired brunch favorite.
Health & Consumer Appeal:
- 60% of brunch-goers look for high-protein options[3].
- Whole grain rice provides 3x more fiber than traditional breakfast carbs like toast or bagels.
3. Rice Pancakes & Waffles: A Gluten-Free Alternative
Why it works: With gluten-free dining up 25% in the last five years[4],rice-based pancakes and waffles cater to a growing audience of gluten-sensitive diners.
Menu Inspiration:
- Rice & Almond Flour Pancakes – A fluffy, nutty twist on the classic pancake.
- Jasmine Rice Waffles with Honey Butter – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Rice Flour Crepes – A delicate,European-inspired brunch option.
Market Opportunity:
More than 30% of consumers actively seek gluten-free options on brunch menus[5],making rice-based alternatives a valuable addition.
Why Rice Deserves a Spot on Your Brunch Menu
Cost-Effective & High-Profit
- Rice costs pennies per serving but can be used in dishes with $12-$20 price points.
- With global inflation on staple ingredients, rice remains an affordable, versatile choice.
Easy to Prep in Bulk
- Cooked rice holds well for service, making it perfect for high-volume brunch operations.
- Can be prepped ahead of time and reheated without compromising quality.
Meets Dietary Trends
- Appeals to gluten-free, plant-based, and health-conscious diners.
- Works well with international flavors, fromAsian rice bowls to Latin-inspired rice
Brunch is a revenue-driving powerhouse, and rice-based dishes can help your restaurant increase margins, attract new customers, and streamline kitchen efficiency. Whether it’s a creamy breakfast risotto, a sweet arroz con leche, or a protein-packed rice bowl, integrating rice into your brunch menu can elevate your offerings and boost your bottom line.
Need more inspiration? Riceland can help with bulk rice options and expert menu development strategies. Contact your Riceland sales representative today!
Sources:
[1]National Restaurant Association, "Brunch Trends & Consumer Spending2024”
[2] Google Trends, "Search Volume for Rice Pudding Recipes, 2022-2024"
[3] Datassential,"The Rise of Protein-Forward Breakfast Dishes, 2024"
[4]NPD Group, "Breakfast & Brunch Menu Insights, 2023"
[5] Technomic, "Gluten-Free Dining& Consumer Preferences, 2024"