IndyTend
IndyTend
Post a new listingBrowse BartendersBrowse ChefsBrowse Food TrucksGetting StartedProvider FAQsMenu Builder GuideHow to Post a ListingHow Alcohol Delivery WorksBookings and Payments Explained
Log inSign up
0 new notification
View

Oh no, something went wrong. Please check your network connection and try again.

Indytend | Menu Builder Guide

How to Use the Cocktail Builder & Menu Builder

The Cocktail Builder and Menu Builder are the heart of your Indytend listing.
They make it easy to showcase your drinks or food offerings so that party hosts can browse, customize, and book you with confidence.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Why Use the Builders?

  • Professionalism: Hosts love seeing a clear, professional menu.
  • Transparency: Costs are automatically calculated based on bottles and ingredients, so hosts know exactly what they’re paying for.
  • Creativity: You can showcase signature cocktails, house-made syrups, and seasonal food items.
  • Flexibility: Hosts can mix and match cocktails and dishes that work best for their event.

Getting Started

  • Log into your Indytend Dashboard.
  • Select “Create Listing” or “Edit Listing”.
  • Scroll to Cocktail Builder (for bartenders) or Menu Builder (for chefs).

Step 1: Choose Your Base Items

Cocktail Builder

  • Start by selecting a base spirit: vodka, gin, tequila, rum, whiskey, etc.
  • These are linked directly to our partner liquor stores.
  • Example: Choosing Tito’s Vodka pulls in pricing from our catalog.

Menu Builder

  • Chefs can select meal types (Appetizer, Main, Dessert, Prix Fixe).
  • Example: For a 3-course menu, select one from each category.

Step 2: Add Mixers, Sides, and Extras

Cocktail Builder

  • Add fresh juices, sodas, syrups, or other mixers.
  • These connect to local produce and supplier catalogs.
  • Example: “Fresh Lime Juice (Crown Produce)”

Menu Builder

  • Add sides, sauces, or accompaniments to dishes.
  • Example: “Roasted Vegetables” or “Salsa Verde”

Step 3: Add Garnishes & Finishing Touches

Cocktail Builder

  • Choose garnishes such as citrus, herbs, or spices.
  • These are automatically mapped to produce partners.
  • Example: “Lime Wheel” or “Mint Sprig”

Menu Builder

  • Add plating or presentation notes.
  • Example: “Served with microgreens and house-made aioli.”

Step 4: Add Custom Ingredients

This is where your creativity shines.

  • Cocktail Builder: Add house-made syrups, infusions, tinctures, or special garnishes.
    • Example: “Lavender Honey Syrup (custom)”
  • Menu Builder: Add signature sauces, specialty breads, or unique side dishes.
    • Example: “Smoked Chili Oil (house-made)”

Tip: Use descriptive names. It makes your listing stand out.

Step 5: Pricing & Cost Transparency

  • Ingredient costs are calculated automatically.
  • Bottle sizes are measured against recipe ounces to estimate how many cocktails per bottle.
  • The system shows cost per cocktail / cost per dish, plus Indytend’s platform fee.

Example (Cocktail):

  • 2 oz vodka per drink → 12 cocktails per 750ml bottle.
  • If the bottle costs $30, ingredient cost = $2.50 per cocktail.

Step 6: Previewing Your Menu

  • Once your cocktails or dishes are entered, preview your listing card.
  • Hosts will see:
    • Cocktail or dish name
    • Ingredients (with custom items highlighted)
    • Cost per cocktail/dish
  • Make adjustments until you’re happy with how everything looks.

Tips for a Great Menu

  • Keep it focused: 3–6 cocktails or 3–5 food items is ideal.
  • Balance your offerings: Include something light, something strong, and something adventurous.
  • Highlight seasonal items: Fresh produce stands out to hosts.
  • Add a signature: Unique cocktails or a chef’s special dish can set you apart.
  • Write it like a restaurant menu: Use short, vivid descriptions.
    • Example: “Smoked Old Fashioned – Bourbon, house-made smoked syrup, orange peel.”

FAQs

Do I have to use the builder?

Yes. All providers must use the builder so hosts see accurate pricing and availability.

What if I don’t see an ingredient I use?

Use the Custom Ingredient option. For alcohol, stick to catalog items for compliance.

Can I update my menu later?

Absolutely. You can edit or add cocktails/dishes anytime.

What if a host wants something off-menu?

You can add it as a custom ingredient or discuss with the host after booking.

Need help setting up your menu? Reach out to us at jordan@indytend.com