American casual dining is the broadest category. Burgers, sandwiches, and entrees define the menu. Portion control and protein cost management are the keys.
Target Food Cost
28–32%
Avg. Menu Price
$16
Gross Margin
70%
Profit / Plate
$11.20
Key ingredients for american / casual dining menus with current average pricing and yield percentages.
| Ingredient | Category | Price | Unit | Yield % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80/20) | Proteins | $5.49 | lb | 78% |
| Chicken Breast (boneless/skinless) | Proteins | $4.29 | lb | 75% |
| Bacon (sliced) | Proteins | $7.99 | lb | 55% |
| Cheddar Cheese | Dairy | $5.99 | lb | 95% |
| Hamburger Bun | Grains & Bread | $0.55 | each | 100% |
| Russet Potato | Produce | $0.99 | lb | 80% |
| Romaine Lettuce | Produce | $2.49 | head | 85% |
| Tomato (beefsteak) | Produce | $2.49 | lb | 90% |
Burger patty weight must be standardized — a 1oz overweight patty costs $0.35 extra
Fries from fresh potatoes are cheaper than frozen premium brands
Bacon is a high-shrink item (45% loss) — price accordingly
Offer chicken alternatives to beef for better margins
Use our free calculator with pre-loaded american / casual dining ingredients to see your real food cost percentage.
Open Free Calculator