Why Menu Discipline Is Hard — and Why It’s Worth It

Written By Brian Johnson

Menu discipline protects margins, execution, and sanity — even when it’s uncomfortable to enforce.

Every operator struggles with menu discipline.

Adding “just one more item.”
Keeping low sellers “because someone likes it.”
Running specials that never get repeated.
Carrying ingredients that only show up once a week.

It all adds up.

Why Discipline Feels Uncomfortable

Because it requires:

  • saying no

  • removing favorites

  • disappointing a regular

  • challenging old habits

But comfort is expensive.

What Menu Discipline Protects

  • speed

  • consistency

  • food cost

  • training time

  • inventory clarity

  • execution confidence

Discipline isn’t restrictive — it’s protective.

Final Thought

A tight menu gives your team room to breathe and perform.

Brian Johnson
Next

Why Presence Matters More Than Perfection in Leadership