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Menu Balance

Creating a balanced menu ensures your guests have a variety of drink options that work well together.

What is Menu Balance?​

Menu balance refers to the distribution of:

  • Flavor profiles (sweet, sour, bitter, etc.)
  • Base spirits (diversity of alcohol types)
  • Preparation methods (shaken, stirred, built)
  • Complexity levels (simple to advanced)
  • Strength levels (high-proof to non-alcoholic)

Analyzing Menu Balance​

Automatic Analysis​

  1. Create or open a menu
  2. Tap "Analyze Balance"
  3. Review the balance indicators:
    • Flavor distribution chart
    • Spirit variety graph
    • Complexity rating
    • Strength diversity

Manual Review​

When creating a menu, consider these balance factors:

  1. Count the number of drinks using each base spirit
  2. Ensure a mix of sweet, sour, and bitter options
  3. Include both simple and complex preparations
  4. Provide options at different alcohol strengths

Improving Menu Balance​

Using Recommendations​

If Bartendie identifies balance issues:

  1. Tap "View Recommendations"
  2. Review suggested changes
  3. Apply recommendations by tapping "Add to Menu" or "Replace"

Manual Adjustments​

To improve balance yourself:

  1. Replace overrepresented categories
  2. Add underrepresented drink types
  3. Ensure at least one non-alcoholic option

Balance Considerations​

For Small Menus (3-5 drinks)​

  • Include at least 2-3 different base spirits
  • Offer both shaken and stirred options
  • Ensure at least one lower-alcohol or non-alcoholic choice

For Medium Menus (6-10 drinks)​

  • Aim for no more than 2-3 drinks with the same base spirit
  • Include options from all major flavor categories
  • Vary complexity levels for different guest preferences

For Large Menus (10+ drinks)​

  • Group by category for easier navigation
  • Ensure representation across all balance factors
  • Feature specialties while maintaining overall balance

Balance Visualization​

Bartendie provides visual tools to understand your menu balance:

  • Radar Charts: Show distribution across flavor profiles
  • Bar Graphs: Display spirit distribution
  • Sliding Scales: Indicate overall complexity and strength

Saving Balance Templates​

Once you've created a well-balanced menu:

  1. Tap "More Options" (three dots)
  2. Select "Save Balance Template"
  3. Name your template
  4. Use it as a starting point for future menus

Tips for Perfect Menu Balance​

  • Start with a featured drink and build balance around it
  • Consider your guest list when evaluating balance
  • Match balance to your event theme
  • Don't sacrifice quality for balance
  • Aim for diversity but avoid unnecessary complexity