Adapting Menus to Changing Tides in 2024
The restaurant scene is evolving, shaped by technology, societal shifts, and consumer choices. Grubhub's Food Trends report for 2023 highlights a significant rise in vegan alternatives, responding to a growing emphasis on health, environmental consciousness, and taste satisfaction.
Plant-Based Boom
Restaurants strategically incorporate plant-based options, with the US vegan food market set to grow by 40%, reaching $21 billion by 2026. This shift isn't limited to traditional vegan and vegetarian consumers; it extends to a broader audience, including those with lactose sensitivities and sustainability concerns.
Diverse Vegan Offerings
Grubhub suggests restaurants capitalize on the trend by diversifying their plant-based menu. From vegan burgers to realistic plant-based alternatives like pork, beef, and chicken, the inclusion of renowned brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods is key. Plant-based cheese, dairy-free sorbets, and ice creams enhance the dining experience, attracting a wide range of customers.
Top Trends in Meatless Fare
Meatless alternatives have consistently trended in recent years. In 2021, Impossible cheeseburgers topped orders, and the popularity of meat alternatives spiked by 463% in 2020 on Grubhub.
Sustainability in Focus
Sustainability remains a culinary focal point, with consumers favoring locally sourced food and a willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging. Restaurants are adopting environmentally friendly practices, from cultivated meat to low-waste inventory methods.
Immersive Dining Experiences
In 2023, restaurants embraced immersive dining experiences, ranging from underwater settings to pre-dinner cooking classes. Consumers seek not only a meal but a memorable encounter.
Modernized Comfort Food
Amid inflation and a tense political climate, there's a demand for modernized comfort food. Restaurants are responding with contemporary takes on classics like mac and cheese, with 65% of operators expecting this trend to endure.
Flavor Tourism and Culinary Exploration
Flavor tourism is on the rise, with diners exploring international cuisines without leaving their hometowns. Restaurants incorporate global flavors into existing dishes and create special menu items inspired by trending world topics.
Digitalization in the Restaurant Landscape
Digitalization continues to shape the restaurant landscape, with 90% of customers researching restaurants online before visiting. Robust online presence, current Google Business profiles, social media engagement, QR code menus, and online ordering platforms are essential for success.
Rise of Vegan Eggs and Milk
Vegan eggs made from ingredients like chia seeds, tofu, and vegan yogurt are gaining attention. Restaurants incorporating these alternatives are meeting customer expectations and contributing to the local food movement.
Transformations in Beverages
Zero-proof spirits are gaining popularity as consumers reduce alcohol consumption. Tequila emerged as the beverage of choice in 2023, with premium varieties gaining traction. Alternative milk options and botanical ingredients are becoming staples, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Crafting Experiences in 2024
As the culinary landscape evolves, restaurants embracing vegan options, sustainability, immersive experiences, and nostalgic comforts are not just satisfying hunger but crafting experiences aligned with the changing preferences and values of their diverse customer base. In the culinary journey of 2024, these trends are expected to continue taking center stage.
