Single-Concept Restaurant Beverage Program :
Maggiano ’ s Little Italy
A premium drinks program with an Italian accent
Maggiano ’ s Little Italy started out more than 30 years ago offering simple , authentic classic Italian fare . The company , which now operates 50 restaurants nationwide and is part of Dallas-based Brinker International , in spring 2024 retooled its beverage program , resulting in a lift in alcohol sales and guest satisfaction .
For starters , Maggiano ’ s updated its drink menu for the first time in seven years and launched the Mixologist Collection , “ comprised of four of signature recipes from our menu that we wanted to elevate in both flavor and presentation ,” says Cami Lehmann the brand ’ s director of marketing .
“ As Maggiano ’ s evolves , it was important to ensure that we weren ’ t abandoning or removing any of the things guests love about the restaurant , but instead , amplify and enhance what already resonates with our guests .”
Left : The Master Sommelier Selection . Right : The Pomegranate Martini .
The Smoked Old Fashioned , presented tableside in a smoking box , has become a best-selling cocktail for Maggiano ’ s .
CAPTIVATING THE SENSES
The Mixologist Collection blends classic cocktails with contemporary mixology trends . The drinks , presented tableside , captivate the senses with house-made foams and aromatic cocktail garnishes , as well as dramatic visual elements .
For example , the Smoked Old Fashioned is presented tableside in a smoking box for unique visual appeal and full depth of flavor . Made with Knob Creek rye , Luxardo Maraschino liqueur and bitters , and served over a large ice cube , it has become the best-selling cocktail , says Lehmann .
The Grand Margarita , named after the original Maggiano ’ s location , which opened in 1991 at Clark Street and Grand Avenue in Chicago , combines Patrón silver tequila , Disaronno Amaretto , lime and orange bitters , and is topped with Maggiano ’ s signature , house-made Italian foam .
The Pomegranate Martini , with Absolut Raspberri vodka , Cointreau , pomegranate , cranberry and fresh sour , is shaken tableside in an ornate glass shaker . And the Rosa Spritz , with Malfy Gin Rosa , fresh sour , strawberry and topped with Mionetto rosé prosecco , is served in a carafe on a gold tray , poured tableside and finished with a spritz of rose water .
Where did the inspiration for these elevated drinks come from ? “ Based on his experiences at notable destinations like MGM Resorts in Las Vegas and properties in Europe such as Monte Carlo Beach , Maggiano ’ s president Dominique Bertolone saw a unique opportunity to transform these cocktails by enhancing their presentation and enriching their flavor profile — providing an unforgettable experience that keeps our guests coming back ,” Lehmann says .
GRAPE EXPECTATIONS
Maggiano ’ s also partnered with Master Sommelier Jason Smith and Italian Il-Borro winery owner , Salvatore Ferragamo , to curate an elevated wine selection for the new Master Sommelier Selection . The six distinct bottles pair with the restaurant ’ s dishes and enhance the culinary experience .
Wines include Oberon Cabernet ; Lingua Franca Avni Pinot Noir ; Dr . Loosen “ Dr . L ”; Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet ; Borrigiano Toscana red wine ; and Lamelle Chardonnay . To date , 23 % of wine mix has come from Master Sommelier Selection .
As with the Mixologist Collection cocktails , these new and elevated elements were inspired by luxurious experiences and brought to Maggiano ’ s restaurants on a national scale .
The revamped cocktail menu and improved guest experience has led Maggiano ’ s to an increase in alcohol mix for the first time in a decade , with alcohol sales averaging 10 % growth since the launch . Nearly 40 % of the liquor mix comes from the new Mixologist Collection . — MD
14 Cheers • Winter 2024 www . cheersonline . com