Food and Spirits are part of the Lifestyle
Future club members are searching for a casual atmosphere – but that doesn’t mean hotdogs and chicken tenders.
Outside of golf, weather and beautiful scenery, don’t forget about the food and dining atmosphere at clubs. Without question, a “casual” dining experience leads the way in terms of consumer demand for an ideal club to join. However, there is a significant difference between a “casual atmosphere” and a “casual menu.” Let’s discuss.
After analyzing nearly 24,000 ProGuide³’s, 58% of consumers say they will base their decision of which club to join by the club’s food and beverage operation, cuisine and atmosphere. We’re not surprised by the data, a consumer’s food experience can make life at a club much better, especially while entertaining family and friends.
The caveat, however, is making sure that expectations and definition of “casual” aligns with the club’s culture. There are great clubs across the Sun Belt with topnotch dining operations where wearing jeans is permissible and are kid-friendly to boot. However, there are others with a low-key atmosphere and low-key menus with basic tavern food.
Chief Navigator Tip: It is important to gain a pulse on a club’s dining parameters before investing. Personally, I would try to have dinner at the club – or at the very least – visit the club during a busy lunch after the men’s and ladies’ leagues arrive off the course. Be vigilant, ask questions and rate your experience to your standards.
From the club side of the equation, we know that most Sun Belt clubs have a “casual” setting for dinner, however 80% report that they also have a “formal” offering for special occasions and events.
When expectations like having wine storage, a sports bar or the club being open for breakfast come into play for your search, that’s when it gets a bit tricky. Only 40 to 45% of clubs have these specific amenities so finding them can be a challenge. If you haven’t already, take a ProGuide³ to get granular with your search and locate clubs with these specific dining amenities.
In all, if the dining operation and atmosphere is important, we highly recommend that you speak with one of our local Navigators. They can answer questions about your “Best-Matched clubs” and connect you with the clubs that will meet your expectations for the perfect food and dining experience.
Best of all, our Navigation is free! Use the contact form on this page to schedule your free call.
Enjoy the journey, you’ve earned it!
