Foundations of Branding - Color

Color your senses

Instructions: "As you imagine the dining experience, create a palette of colors that could be used to brand this restaurant. Thinks of the flavors and the aromas. Beside each color, list the color's RGB value and then explain why each color was chosen."

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1. Smoky Hickory Brown

• CMYK: (46, 70, 89, 59)
• RGB: (78, 48, 22)
• HEX: 4E3016
• Inspired by the deep, earthy richness of smoked meats, barbecue char, and aged wood, this color embodies the heart of Southern barbecue and the warmth of slow-cooked flavors.

2. Soy Glaze Black

• CMYK: (65, 68, 70, 81)
• RGB: (30, 20, 15)
• HEX: 1E140F
• Reflecting the glossy depth of soy sauce, seared teppanyaki surfaces, and charred edges, this black adds sophistication, umami depth, and an air of mystery.

3. Sakura Ember Red

• CMYK: (15, 98, 98, 5)
• RGB: (200, 40, 40)
• HEX: C82828
• A fiery red inspired by Japanese chili peppers, sizzling grills, and the glow of embers, this color conveys heat, passion, and intensity of flavor.

4. Cincinnati Chili Gold

• CMYK: (8, 52, 100, 0)
• RGB: (230, 140, 10)
• HEX: E68C0A
• This color, taken from the warm, inviting hue of Skyline Chili's signature dish and the golden glow of cheese melting over a steaming plate, adds a sense of comfort and indulgence.

5. Teppanyaki Steel Gray

• CMYK: (60, 52, 51, 21)
• RGB: (100, 100, 100)
• HEX: 646464
• Inspired by the polished steel of teppanyaki grills and industrial kitchen surfaces, this neutral tone grounds the brand with a sleek and modern culinary aesthetic.

6. Wasabi Smoke Green

• CMYK: (38, 4, 93, 0)
• RGB: (170, 200, 70)
• HEX: AAC846
• A nod to the sharp, fresh heat of wasabi and the herbal undertones in barbecue rubs, this green brings a vibrant contrast to smoky flavors and heavy textures.

7. Bourbon Maple Amber

• CMYK: (13, 77, 100, 3)
• RGB: (210, 90, 20)
• HEX: D25A14
• Reminiscent of caramelized bourbon glazes, grilled peaches, and the warm richness of aged whiskey, this amber hue enhances the brand identity's warmth and depth.

8. Miso Cream Beige

• CMYK: (6, 6, 29, 0)
• RGB: (240, 230, 190)
• HEX: F0E6BE
• A soft, creamy beige inspired by miso paste, buttered cornbread, and lightly toasted buns, adding a neutral balance to the bold, smoky, and spicy elements.

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This color palette blends the bold, smoky richness of barbecue, the refined umami of Japanese teppanyaki, and the warm, comforting essence of Midwestern flavors. Together, these colors tell a story of heat, depth, spice, and harmony—perfectly encapsulating the fusion of Japanese teppanyaki, American smokehouse barbecue, and Midwestern comfort food.

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