Menu Language for Gen X

Gen X and the Menu

Although the Generation X demographic is smaller than boomers and the millennials, consider its position. Gen Xers, born between 1966 and 1976, are in their prime moneymaking years. Studies show they worry less about finances when dining out than any other generation. Another reason to draw them in is that they are typically the parents of Gen Z, choosing dining out spots for this up-and-coming generation. Additionally, Gen X boasts an impressive purchasing power of $12 billion. Enticing this group of diners into your restaurant makes good business sense. Apart from luring them in with dishes they yearn for, using menu language that connects to their values and flavour preferences is a smart strategy.

Culinary Cues

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Premium cues resonate more with Gen X than any other generation, including millennials, according to Technomic Inc. Use menu language to express those closely held values. The challenge is relating “premium” without calling out that word, which can sound elitist. Premium attributes for Gen X signal culinary artistry and quality products, so look to words like “hand-torn,” “house pickled,” “made in house,” and “hand-tossed.” Use menu buzzwords that highlight back-of-house technique and attention to detail. Examples here include “24-hour brine,” “honey-glazed,” and “cider-braised.”

Culinary cues also apply to the beverage side of the menu. Use words that express care and attention. Examples here include: “freshly squeezed,” “hand-mixed,” “house-infused,” “artisan made,” and “hand-cut.”

Sustainability Counts

Much like millennials, Gen Xers look for evidence of honesty and integrity on the menu. They want to see a link between your restaurant and the community—both local and global. Provenance, that sense of place, can help express those values. Menu buzzwords like “local” and “organic” are good starting points, but maybe go further by calling out local purveyors and farmers. For instance, honey is on trend as an all-natural sweetener, but add “local” as descriptor and now you have a premium indicator. If you’re sourcing sustainably, use buzzwords that resonate with this generation, such as: “wild-caught,” “grass-fed,” and “rope-grown mussels.”

Also, make sure your menu works hard for you in communicating sustainability initiatives. Using recycled paper products? Print it on the menu. Composting? Recycling? Take credit for these efforts and share them on your menu.

Gen X is a diner demographic worth going after. With a compelling narrative expressed on your best marketing tool—your menu—you can make emotional connections, inviting repeat visits.