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Choosing the Right Breakfast Format to Boost Guest Satisfaction and Profit

05 June 2025

Breakfast is not just a meal. It’s the first impression your guest gets in the morning. It can set the tone for their whole day, and their opinion of your hotel.

Research shows:

  • 81% of guests believe breakfast is the most important meal of their stay.

  • 64% said they would return to a hotel just for breakfast.

That’s why every hotel should think carefully about how they serve breakfast, and what format works best for them.

Four Breakfast Formats – What Works for You?

1. Classic Buffet

The buffet allows guests to choose from a wide variety of foods. It’s great for large hotels with many visitors. Guests serve themselves, which saves time.

  • Pros: Lots of options, Good for big groups, Flexible for different diets

  • Cons: Food waste can be high, Needs space and good layout, Requires constant supervision

2.  À la Carte

In this format, guests order from a menu. It works well for boutique hotels or smaller spaces.

  • Pros: Personalized  meals, Calm and quiet experience, Beautiful presentation, Upselling is easier

  • Cons: Slower service, Needs more trained staff, Menu planning and stock control can be complex

3. Grab & Go

Perfect for city or business hotels. Guests pick up a box, smoothie, or snack and go. It’s fast, modern, and cost-effective.

  • Pros: Takes up little space, Lower staff costs, Popular with younger guests

  • Cons: Needs attractive packaging, Trends and guest preferences must be updated often

4. Room Service Breakfast

Great for luxury or resort hotels. Guests enjoy their breakfast in their room, in peace.

  • Pros: Private and comfortable, Works at any time, Ideal for business travelers

  • Cons: Higher costs for the hotel, Limited menu, Slower delivery

What to Consider When Choosing a Format

Ask yourself:

  • What type of hotel are you (boutique, resort, city, etc.)?

  • What is your brand identity?

  • How much space do you have?

  • What is your guest profile and budget?

Tips to Improve Your Breakfast Offering

  • Add live cooking stations to make the buffet more exciting

  • Use local and seasonal ingredients

  • Offer smaller portions to reduce food waste

  • Make the setup clear, clean, and beautiful

  • Partner with experts for design and layout

  • Think about storytelling — breakfast should reflect your hotel’s character

Case Study: A Real Example from Crete

I collaborated with a resort in Crete to redesign their breakfast buffet through strategic zoning, individual portions, and open kitchen stations. This organized approach led to a 40% reduction in food waste and a 30% increase in guest satisfaction.