Episode 46: Karen Malody

Karen Malody began her food service career with the development team at Starbucks, where she played an integral role in the development of Frappuccino and the creation of many other successful offerings.

 

In this episode, we learn how Karen’s consulting company, Culinary Options, helps restaurant operators develop winning and profitable menu items. "For 25 years, I have been fighting what I call bloated menu syndrome," says Karen. “Operators tend to present too many items creating a heavy menu with high inventory and low profit margins.” 

 

Karen enjoys taking her client's idea and developing it into a full menu concept. She believes the foundation for a successful menu starts with the cross-utilization of products and making a second purpose for popular menu items. “I believe future menu formulas will include convenience and packaging with quality and consistency to improve the guest experience.”