A menu item that is less profitable but categorized as a?

A menu item that is less profitable but categorized as a "Plow Horse" typically refers to items that are popular among customers and sell in substantial quantities, but may not contribute significantly to overall profitability. This classification highlights the importance of balancing cost, pricing, and sales volume.

Plow horses are often items that attract customers due to their popularity, even though their profit margins are lower compared to other items on the menu. Understanding this classification helps restaurant managers make strategic decisions regarding menu design and pricing. For example, while a plow horse may generate substantial sales, its lower profitability might necessitate careful management of costs, portion sizes, and pricing strategies to improve its contribution margin.

In contrast, items classified as "Stars" are both popular and profitable, "Dogs" are low in both sales and profitability, and "Puzzles" might be high in sales but low in profit. Recognizing where a menu item fits into these categories allows for more informed menu management and marketing efforts.