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Top 20 Food Trends: Food Stats and Trends (2024)

Caroline PriceAuthor

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Exploring the Latest Food and Restaurant Trends

The Restaurant Trends report by Toast sheds light on the evolving landscape of the U.S. food industry, showcasing emerging food preferences and spending behaviors among consumers. The data reveals significant shifts in what diners are ordering, the prices they're willing to pay, and the types of meals they're favoring. As restaurants navigate these trends, understanding the changing demands of consumers will be crucial for sustaining growth and relevance in this competitive market.

Key Food Trends

Popular Menu Items:

  • Average prices for popular QSR items:

    • Sandwiches and wraps: $11.26 (+4.6% YOY)

    • Bowls: $12.98 (+4.6% YOY)

    • Burgers: $11.45 (+4.6% YOY)

    • Salads: $11.42 (+2.7% YOY)

    • Burritos: $10.74 (+4.3% YOY)

    • Fries: $6.04 (+4.4% YOY)

    • Soda: $3.00 (+4.6% YOY)

Shifting Meal Preferences:

  • Increased consumer spending at quick-service restaurants (QSRs) has moved towards breakfast, with notable year-over-year transaction growth during breakfast hours (4 a.m. to 11 a.m.) and a decrease during dinner hours (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.).

Geographic Variations in Popularity:

  • Sandwiches and wraps dominated as the most popular item in 44 states, while tacos led in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Texas. Bowls were favored in Hawaii, and salads took the top spot in Utah.

Sales Trends:

  • While burgers, bowls, and noodles/ramen emerged as the most expensive menu items, sales of hot dogs dipped 9% compared to Q2 2023, signaling changing consumer preferences.

Wage Trends:

  • In California, the median wage for cashiers at QSRs reached $16.98, highlighting the industry's focus on competitive pay to attract and retain staff.

These insights underline the dynamic nature of the food industry, reflecting not only shifts in consumer preferences but also the broader economic factors influencing dining habits. As restaurants adapt to these trends, staying informed about what diners want will be essential for success in the coming years.

Restaurant-Specific Food Trends

1. Plant-Based Menu Expansion

What is the trend?
Restaurants are diversifying their menus with plant-based options that go far beyond simple salads or veggie burgers. In fact, plant-based offerings have become a central feature in many mainstream dining establishments. Meat alternatives such as seitan, tempeh, and the rise of products like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have led to creative plant-based versions of traditionally meat-centric dishes, from tacos to steaks.

What’s causing it?
The rise in plant-based eating can be traced back to several factors: increased awareness of the environmental impact of livestock farming, growing concerns about animal welfare, and the recognition that plant-based diets can offer significant health benefits. Documentaries such as Cowspiracy and The Game Changers have exposed the environmental and ethical issues surrounding meat consumption, influencing many to rethink their eating habits. Moreover, high-profile endorsements by athletes, celebrities, and health influencers have further amplified this trend.

Will it persist?
Yes, and it’s growing. With major fast-food chains such as McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC offering plant-based options, and with advancements in food technology making plant-based proteins even more meat-like in texture and taste, this trend is set to continue. As consumers increasingly adopt flexitarian diets—where meat is still eaten but less frequently—plant-based offerings will remain a menu staple.


2. Ghost Kitchens and Delivery-Only Models

What is the trend?
Ghost kitchens, also known as cloud kitchens, are kitchens that operate solely for delivery purposes with no dine-in option. These kitchens prepare food exclusively for online orders through apps such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub. Some restaurants are now launching as delivery-only operations, avoiding the costs associated with maintaining a physical dining space.

What’s causing it?
The demand for delivery and takeout has skyrocketed, driven largely by convenience and, more recently, by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced restaurants to close or severely limit dine-in capacity. For restaurateurs, ghost kitchens offer an opportunity to reduce overhead costs such as rent, utilities, and staff while reaching a broader audience through online platforms. The model also allows operators to experiment with multiple brands or cuisines from one kitchen space, testing different concepts without significant financial risk.

Will it persist?
Absolutely. Delivery services are now a part of daily life for many consumers, and the economic benefits for operators make the ghost kitchen model highly sustainable. As dining preferences shift towards convenience, speed, and flexibility, ghost kitchens are expected to become a dominant part of the food industry landscape.


3. Fusion Cuisine and Cross-Cultural Menus

What is the trend?
Fusion cuisine has evolved beyond blending two or three culinary traditions into new and unexpected combinations. Modern fusion restaurants are experimenting with cross-cultural flavors on a global scale, creating dishes like sushi pizza, ramen burgers, and kimchi quesadillas. Rather than feeling like a gimmick, these dishes reflect the growing interconnectedness of cultures.

What’s causing it?
Increased globalization and access to information have broadened consumers' palates, making them more adventurous when it comes to trying new flavors and ingredients. The rise of social media and food influencers has also played a key role, exposing people to new cuisines and cooking techniques from around the world. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are more willing to explore multicultural dishes, seeking out novel food experiences that transcend traditional cuisine categories.

Will it persist?
Yes, fusion cuisine is expected to continue evolving. As cultural boundaries blur and people become even more curious about global food traditions, chefs will keep pushing the envelope by creating hybrid dishes that offer something new and exciting. The ability to surprise and delight with unexpected flavor combinations ensures that fusion remains a powerful culinary trend.


4. Sustainable and Locally Sourced Ingredients

What is the trend?
Sustainability has become a key consideration for many restaurants, with more chefs prioritizing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The farm-to-table movement, which champions the use of food grown by nearby farmers, has gained significant momentum. In addition to reducing carbon footprints, restaurants are adopting zero-waste practices by composting food scraps, minimizing packaging, and repurposing ingredients.

What’s causing it?
The environmental impact of industrial food production, particularly the carbon emissions from transporting food long distances, has led to a shift toward more sustainable sourcing. Consumers are increasingly concerned about where their food comes from and how it’s produced, leading to a growing demand for ethical and transparent food practices. Supporting local farmers and artisans also helps bolster community economies, another key driver of this trend.

Will it persist?
Sustainability is not a fleeting trend—it’s a growing movement that is becoming the new norm for responsible businesses. As climate change continues to dominate global conversations, both consumers and governments are putting pressure on the food industry to reduce its environmental impact. This means restaurants that prioritize sustainable practices are likely to stay ahead of the curve.


5. Smaller Menus and Specialization

What is the trend?
Many restaurants are shifting from large, diverse menus to smaller, more specialized offerings. This trend reflects a desire to focus on quality over quantity, with restaurants narrowing their scope to a few signature dishes or a specific cuisine, and mastering them.

What’s causing it?
Operational efficiency is a major factor behind this trend. With smaller menus, restaurants can better manage their inventory, reduce food waste, and ensure that every dish is made with precision. The pandemic forced many establishments to streamline their operations, and in doing so, they found that a simplified menu improved both customer satisfaction and profitability.

Will it persist?
Yes. Specialization allows restaurants to stand out in a competitive market, as diners increasingly seek out expert-driven experiences. Whether it’s a ramen shop that only serves three types of ramen or a burger joint with just a few variations, this focus on fewer, perfected items is likely to continue thriving.


6. Fine-Casual Dining

What is the trend?
“Fine-casual dining” blends the elevated cuisine of fine dining with the relaxed atmosphere and quick service of casual dining. These establishments offer high-quality dishes typically associated with gourmet restaurants, but in a more approachable, less formal environment.

What’s causing it?
Consumers, especially millennials, are looking for dining experiences that are upscale but without the pretentiousness or high cost of traditional fine dining. They want well-crafted, thoughtfully sourced food in a relaxed setting. The rise of foodie culture, driven by platforms like Instagram, has made people more discerning about the quality of their food, but they still desire convenience and accessibility.

Will it persist?
Yes. Fine-casual dining strikes a balance between quality and convenience, which is increasingly appealing to modern diners. As consumers continue to seek out experiences that blend sophistication with comfort, this trend will likely expand, especially in urban centers.


7. Interactive and DIY Dining Experiences

What is the trend?
Interactive dining experiences, where customers actively participate in preparing or customizing their meals, are becoming more popular. Think of hot pot, Korean BBQ, or DIY sushi rolls. These dining like Mei Mei Dumplings in Boston, educate consumers while providing formats encourage customers to engage with their food in a hands-on way.

What’s causing it?
Millennials and Gen Z value experiences over things, and dining is no exception. Interactive meals are not just about eating—they are social experiences that bring people together. The communal and participatory aspect of these meals makes them highly engaging, which is also a boon for social media content, further promoting the trend.

Will it persist?
The desire for memorable, shareable experiences suggests that interactive dining will continue to gain traction. As dining out becomes more about the experience than simply satisfying hunger, restaurants that offer DIY or participatory elements will thrive.


8. Comfort Food with a Gourmet Twist

What is the trend?
Comfort food—think mac and cheese, fried chicken, and pizza—is being elevated with gourmet ingredients and techniques. Chefs are putting a sophisticated spin on classic dishes by using artisanal cheeses, truffle oil, or slow-braised meats, creating dishes that evoke nostalgia while offering a fine-dining experience.

What’s causing it?
During challenging times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, people seek comfort and familiarity in their food. However, the modern diner also craves innovation and new flavors. This trend merges the comforting aspects of classic, well-loved dishes with the culinary excitement of gourmet ingredients.

Will it persist?
As long as people seek comfort in their food, this trend is here to stay. The ability to reinvent classics while keeping them rooted in nostalgia makes comfort food with a gourmet twist highly appealing across a broad demographic.


9. Tech-Enhanced Dining

What is the trend?
Restaurants are increasingly integrating technology into the dining experience. From AI-powered ordering kiosks to robots assisting in the kitchen, tech is streamlining restaurant operations and enhancing customer service. Digital menus and mobile app ordering systems have become commonplace, even in fine dining establishments.

What’s causing it?
The push for convenience and contactless services during the pandemic accelerated the adoption of restaurant technology. Restaurants are leveraging tech to reduce labor costs, increase accuracy, and improve customer experiences.

Will it persist?
As technology continues to advance, tech-enhanced dining is likely to expand. Automation, AI, and digital ordering platforms will remain critical for improving restaurant operations and customer satisfaction.


10. Health-Conscious Restaurant Menus

What is the trend?
More restaurants are adding health-conscious options to their menus, from gluten-free and keto-friendly dishes to meals rich in superfoods. These options cater to customers looking for both flavor and nutrition.

What’s causing it?
The growing focus on wellness and preventive health has led consumers to seek out healthier dining choices. Social media influencers and wellness trends have played a major role in promoting clean eating, leading restaurants to adapt.

Will it persist?
As people become more health-aware, the demand for nutritious dining options will only grow. Health-conscious menus are here to stay, with more restaurants likely to prioritize nutrient-dense, flavorful dishes.


Popular and Culturally Reflective Food Trends

1. Plant-Based Eating Revolution

What is the trend?
The plant-based revolution has seen a significant shift in consumer eating habits, with more people adopting plant-based diets or incorporating plant-based meals into their routine. Meat alternatives, such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, are widely available, even in fast-food chains.

What’s causing it?
Concerns about climate change, animal welfare, and personal health are major drivers. Documentaries, social media, and the influence of celebrities advocating for plant-based diets have all contributed to the trend’s growth.

Will it persist?
The plant-based movement is set to grow as more innovations in food technology make plant-based alternatives tastier and more affordable. The trend aligns with a broader cultural shift toward sustainability and ethical consumption.


2. Sustainable Packaging and Zero-Waste Movement

What is the trend?
More food brands and restaurants are adopting sustainable packaging and reducing waste. From compostable takeout containers to zero-waste grocery stores, sustainability is becoming a core value for both businesses and consumers.

What’s causing it?
The growing environmental consciousness, coupled with alarming statistics about plastic waste, has made consumers demand more sustainable practices from food companies. Movements like zero-waste and plastic-free living have pushed the industry toward eco-friendly alternatives.

Will it persist?
As environmental issues like climate change and plastic pollution continue to dominate public discourse, the zero-waste movement will likely gain even more momentum. Brands that fail to adopt sustainable practices risk losing favor with increasingly eco-conscious consumers.


3. Rise of Functional Foods

What is the trend?
Functional foods—foods that offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition—are gaining popularity. Products like kombucha (for gut health) and foods enriched with adaptogens or CBD are becoming mainstream.

What’s causing it?
The wellness industry has shifted focus from simply eating “healthy” to incorporating foods that offer targeted benefits, such as stress reduction, improved digestion, or better sleep. Consumers are becoming more interested in using food as a tool for maintaining overall well-being.

Will it persist?
As the lines between food and wellness continue to blur, the demand for functional foods is expected to grow. Consumers are increasingly focused on proactive health measures, and functional foods fit perfectly into this mindset.


4. Global Flavors and Ingredients

What is the trend?
International flavors and ingredients like za’atar, miso, and gochujang are becoming commonplace in mainstream cuisine. Diners are more adventurous than ever, exploring flavors from various cultural traditions.

What’s causing it?
Increased travel, global interconnectedness, and social media have exposed people to a wider range of cuisines. The rise of food influencers and chefs showcasing global ingredients has also played a significant role in popularizing these flavors.

Will it persist?
As global cultures continue to intersect and culinary curiosity grows, the trend of incorporating international flavors will likely persist. Consumers, particularly younger generations, crave new experiences and are open to trying diverse ingredients.


5. Home-Cooking Renaissance

What is the trend?
During the pandemic, many people rediscovered the joy of cooking at home. DIY meal kits, virtual cooking classes, and the popularity of cooking content on platforms like TikTok have contributed to a resurgence in home-cooking.

What’s causing it?
The pandemic forced people to stay home, giving them more time to cook. Social media also played a key role, with influencers and chefs offering tutorials and recipes that inspired many to experiment in the kitchen.

Will it persist?
Though life has returned to normal in many places, the skills and appreciation for home-cooked meals developed during the pandemic are likely to stick. People now have more confidence in their cooking abilities and see home-cooking as a way to save money, control ingredients, and create healthier meals.


6. Food as Self-Expression

What is the trend?
For many people, food has become a way to express their identity, values, and creativity. Social media platforms like Instagram have turned food into a form of art, with users sharing aesthetically pleasing dishes that reflect their personal tastes or lifestyles.

What’s causing it?
The rise of social media and the culture of “sharing” has transformed food into a visual medium. People now express their personal beliefs—whether plant-based, ethically sourced, or gluten-free—through the food they choose to highlight online.

Will it persist?
As long as social media remains a dominant force in our lives, food as a form of self-expression will continue. The personalization of food and the desire to showcase values through what we eat will likely remain a cultural staple.


7. Snackification of Meals

What is the trend?
Busy lifestyles are reshaping eating habits, with snacks often replacing traditional meals. Consumers are opting for smaller, more frequent bites throughout the day, blurring the line between snacks and meals.

What’s causing it?
The fast-paced nature of modern life, combined with the growing demand for convenience, has led to the rise of “snackification.” Brands are responding by offering healthier, more nutritious snack options that can serve as meal replacements.

Will it persist?
As work and life demands continue to evolve, and more people seek on-the-go food solutions, snackification will likely persist. The trend is supported by an ongoing shift away from traditional mealtimes in favor of more flexible, convenient eating patterns.


8. Coffee Beyond the Cup

What is the trend?
Coffee is extending its reach beyond traditional drinks into cocktails, desserts, and even savory dishes. Coffee-infused creations, like coffee-rubbed meats and espresso martinis, are gaining popularity as chefs and mixologists experiment with the versatile ingredient.

What’s causing it?
The cultural obsession with coffee, fueled by the rise of café culture and specialty coffee shops, has expanded coffee’s role beyond a morning pick-me-up. Chefs and bartenders are leveraging coffee’s complex flavors to create innovative dishes and drinks.

Will it persist?
As coffee continues to be a staple of modern life, its use in creative culinary applications is likely to grow. Coffee’s versatility makes it a perfect ingredient for chefs and mixologists seeking to innovate and create unique flavor profiles.


9. Low and No-Alcohol Beverages

What is the trend?
Low- and no-alcohol drinks are becoming more popular as consumers embrace mindful drinking. From alcohol-free spirits to low-ABV beers, people are increasingly seeking flavorful alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.

What’s causing it?
The wellness movement and a growing focus on mental health have led many to reduce their alcohol consumption. Younger generations, in particular, are drinking less, seeking ways to socialize without compromising their health or well-being.

Will it persist?
As the wellness trend continues, the demand for low- and no-alcohol options will likely grow. The shift toward more mindful drinking is expected to remain strong, with more brands and bars offering non-alcoholic options.


10. Food Transparency and Clean Labels

What is the trend?
Consumers are demanding more transparency about what’s in their food, driving the clean label movement. Products with fewer ingredients and no artificial additives are becoming more common as people seek to make informed food choices.

What’s causing it?
With increased access to information, consumers are more educated about food production and are increasingly wary of artificial ingredients. Health-conscious shoppers want to know where their food comes from and what’s in it, pushing brands to be more transparent.

Will it persist?
As consumers continue to prioritize health and wellness, the demand for clean labels and transparency is expected to grow. Brands that fail to provide clear, honest labeling risk losing trust and market share.

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