As August rolls in, diners are craving bold flavors, thoughtful presentation, and memorable experiences — whether they’re dining in or grabbing takeout. With summer produce at its peak and patio season still going strong, now is the time to refresh your offerings and fine-tune operations.
At A1 Cash and Carry, we stay connected with restaurant professionals across Canada to bring you what’s trending — and what works. From eco-friendly packaging to flavor-forward menus and smart fall planning, here are five August trends that can help your restaurant stand out and stay ahead.
1. Seasonal Menus That Spotlight Local Produce
August is a chef’s dream — Ontario peaches, field tomatoes, sweet corn, zucchini, and fresh herbs are all at their peak. Highlighting these ingredients through rotating features, chalkboard specials, or even limited-time desserts keeps your menu fresh and gives customers a reason to come back.
Local sourcing not only enhances flavor and nutrition — it also tells a story of sustainability and community support, which today’s diners value more than ever.
A1 Tip: Our fresh produce department is fully stocked with late-summer staples at wholesale prices. Buy in bulk to save, and lean into vibrant, colorful plating that screams "seasonal."
2. Mocktail Momentum: Flavor-First, Spirit-Free
The sober-curious and wellness-driven crowd isn’t slowing down — and in August’s heat, alcohol-free doesn’t mean boring. Today’s best mocktails are as thoughtfully crafted as cocktails, built with layers of flavor from ingredients like house-made syrups, muddled herbs, and globally inspired garnishes.
Think yuzu mojito mocktails, sparkling lychee spritzers, or peach-ginger coolers. Offering a few sophisticated non-alcoholic options not only broadens your menu but also boosts check averages with add-ons like custom glassware or snack pairings.
A1 Has You Covered: From premium fruit purées and syrups to sparkling mixers and bar tools — everything you need to build a next-level mocktail menu is in stock. Ask about our bulk beverage pricing and seasonal flavors!
Mocktail Spotlight: 🥒Cucumber Gimlet Mocktail
Ingredients (single serving):
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30 ml Monin Cucumber Syrup
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15 ml fresh lime juice
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Top with club soda
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Garnish with a lime slice and cucumber ribbon
Instructions:
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Combine cucumber syrup and lime juice in a shaker filled with ice.
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Shake well to chill and combine.
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Strain into a chilled coupe or highball glass.
This mocktail delivers a crisp, refreshing flavor with a cooling finish — perfect for hot summer days or pairing with your seasonal dishes.
3. Quick Wins with Limited-Time Offers (LTOs)
LTOs encourage repeat visits and drive urgency — especially when paired with creative presentation. This August, try spotlighting a “Taco Tuesday” feature or weekly rotating tacos using seasonal toppings and global flavors.
New from A1: Serve your tacos sustainably with our newly launched Eco-Craze Eco-Friendly TACO Bagasse Containers. Available in both 2- and 3-compartment options, these compostable containers are perfect for takeout or dine-in presentation. They keep flavors separated and fresh while showcasing your commitment to eco-conscious dining — a quality modern diners value.
🆕 Product Spotlight
📦 Eco-Craze Taco Bagasse Containers
Serve tacos with style and sustainability. These 2- and 3-compartment compostable bagasse containers (made from sugarcane and bamboo fibers) are microwave-safe, leak-resistant, and ideal for taco bars, catering, or take-out. They're now available at A1 Cash and Carry and deliver that premium, planet-friendly presentation your customers will love.
Shop Now – Taco Bagasse Containers
Key Features:
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Made with sugarcane and bamboo — compostable, biodegradable, and microwave-safe
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Keeps tacos and sides separated and fresh — perfect for taco bars and catering
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Durable, leak-resistant design supports hot or cold foods without bending
Need Ingredients? Our frozen section has premium proteins and taco essentials, while our international aisle offers the spices and sauces to make your taco game stand out.
4. Outdoor Dining Enhancements: Comfort Meets Style
As patio season stretches into late summer, creating a welcoming, comfortable outdoor space can boost your guest experience — and your bottom line. Invest in cozy seating, ambient string lighting, and stylish umbrellas to keep diners comfortable and coming back, even as the evenings cool down.
Don’t overlook the details that make a big difference: portable bars for quick service and eco-friendly disposables that align with growing consumer demand for sustainability.
A1 Tip: Explore our extensive range of patio essentials — from biodegradable cups and cutlery to sturdy serving trays and eco-friendly packaging. Our products help you combine comfort, style, and eco-consciousness effortlessly.
5. Fall Prep: Get Ahead of the Season
August is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming fall rush. Think beyond just menu changes — prep your kitchen and front-of-house with seasonal staples, equipment checks, and inventory management to avoid last-minute scramble.
Stock up on hearty ingredients like squash, root vegetables, and apples. Transition your menu to include comforting dishes, warm spices, and seasonal beverages that tap into autumn’s cozy vibe.
Pro Tip: Use A1 Cash and Carry’s bulk purchasing options to secure key fall ingredients and pantry essentials early — saving money and reducing supply chain headaches.
Ready to Elevate Your August Menu and Service?
From fresh, local produce to eco-friendly packaging and refreshing mocktails, A1 Cash and Carry is your partner for restaurant success this season. Explore our wide range of quality ingredients, innovative products, and sustainable solutions — all designed to help your business thrive.
🛒 Shop now at A1CashandCarry.com and stock up on everything you need to serve fresh flavors, impress your guests, and run your kitchen smarter this August.
