The world is transforming, and with it, the needs of the modern consumer are also undergoing a revolution. This has created a direct impact on many industries, including the retail F&B sector. From health-conscious meals, sustainable packaging, and the rise in cloud kitchens and ready-to-eat meals, the restaurant trends are no longer defined by the industry and more by what the consumer wants.
But now that 2022 has ended, restaurateurs want to know what is next in the restaurant trends!
So we did some digging and have prepared an answer for you. Here are a few restaurant trends to look out for in 2023.
Restaurants Trends That Will Be Popular In 2023
As the world continues to evolve and cultural exposure increases, the needs of consumers are changing and driving new trends in the food and restaurant industry. Here are a few food and restaurant trends to look out for in 2023:
1. Plant-Based Diet Will Continue To Dominate Menus
With an increasing focus on sustainability and health, plant-based protein is rising. Though there are restaurants that offer plant-based alternatives, the percentage is still less compared to the rising popularity of this restaurant trend.
From black bean burgers to tofu stir-fries, expect to see more meatless options and vegan menus at restaurants of all types.
Need to know more about the vegan food trend? Here is everything you need to know!
2. Outdoor Dining And Patios Will Be In High Demand
Outdoor dining is popular despite the seasonal changes. However, in 2023, outdoor dining is expected to become even more popular.
People like the outdoors instead of sitting within the four walls. Restaurants are expanding their outdoor seating options, and many are even investing in outdoor heating and shelter to make the experience comfortable year-round.
3. Ghost Kitchens Will Continue To Thrive
This is one industry trend that is here to stay. Ghost kitchens, or cloud kitchen restaurants, have exploded in popularity recently. These kitchens allow restaurants to expand their reach without the overhead of a physical location.
Virtual restaurants, which only exist online and offer delivery or takeout, are also on the rise. Expect to see more of these types of restaurants popping up in the coming year.
4. Health-Conscious Options Will Be More Widely Available
With an emphasis on wellness and self-care, health-conscious options such as low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly options will definitely be a growing restaurant trend in 2023.
Tip: It’s time to healthify your cafe menu to attract new customers. Click here to learn how!
From sugar-free and vegan desserts to no-meat chicken tikka, make your menu more inclusive to cater to people who are following the path of conscious living by diversifying your menu in 2023.
5. Comfort Food With A Twist Will Be Popular
Comfort food is always a hit, but in 2023, expect to see a twist on classic dishes.
Why? Because the modern consumer is experimental and easily bored with the same food. Hence the industry trends have to rapidly change to keep the consumer interested. From mac and cheese with unexpected mix-ins to grilled cheese with unique bread and filling combinations, restaurants will get creative with their comfort food offerings.
6. Farm-to-table Will Be Important
Consumers are becoming more conscious of where their food comes from and how it is produced. In 2023 restaurant trends expect to see a focus on ethical sourcing and transparency, with restaurants highlighting the origin of their ingredients and production methods.
7. International Flavors Will Continue To Be Popular
Another industry trend that will follow in 2023 is the rising demand for international flavours and the love for authentic flavours. Thanks to Instagram and other social media platforms, people have more exposure to exotic dishes worldwide and wish to taste the world’s flavours.
Expect to see an emphasis on cuisines from underrepresented countries and regions. From West African to Middle Eastern, these flavours will bring a new level of diversity and excitement to menus.
8. Sustainable Packaging Will Be A Priority
With an increasing focus on reducing waste, sustainable packaging will be a top priority for restaurants in 2023.
Consumers do not prefer plastic containers and cutlery because of the various health risks as well. So it is especially important for restaurants to upgrade their delivery packaging.
From biodegradable takeout containers to reusable containers for dine-in options, expect to see a push towards more eco-friendly packaging solutions.
9. Restaurant Automation Will Thrive
In the past few years, automation has taken over the restaurant business, especially due to the pandemic. Automation and technology enable restaurants to provide better customer experience because it is more efficient and removes the chance of human error.
From contactless payment to virtual ordering, technology will continue to play a larger role in the restaurant industry. In fact, it is highly likely that the year 2023 will see a rise in kitchen robots, waiter robots and kitchen automation.
If you haven’t already invested in a POS system to help you stay updated with this restaurant trend.4
10. B2B Supply Chain Will Become Popular
Even though Amazon food closed in 2022, there would be a high rise in B2B food suppliers. They are more efficient and cater for quality at fair prices. Also, restaurants will get a chance to directly connect with their suppliers/ manufacturers, make complaints and demands and ask for customisations without having to deal with multiple middle parties.
Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for food and restaurants, with a focus on sustainability, health, and cultural exposure. Whether you’re a foodie or just love trying new things, there are plenty of trends to look out for and enjoy in the coming year.
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