Foodbuy’s Culinary Solutions Team Rounds Up Popular Dining Trends

2025 is almost here and many foodservice operators are using this time to plan limited time offers as well as revamped menus for the new year. That makes this November the perfect time to take advantage of current culinary trends. Franke Jones, from Foodbuy’s Culinary Solutions Team, shares 5 restaurant trends for 2025 and how to feature them in your operation.

1. More and More on Mocktails

As Generation Z becomes a larger segment for the foodservice industry, they’ve brought with them some changing habits. One of the more noteworthy characteristics of this generation is the popularity of sober and sober-curious lifestyles.

As more consumers abstain from alcohol, the foodservice industry has begun to adapt. Mocktails, as well as non-alcoholic beers and wines have maintained popularity over the past several quarters and this trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down.

Instead, more foodservice segments are integrating alcohol-free options into their menus. Everyone from casual full-service restaurants to fine dining restaurants are adding an alcohol-free section to their beverage menus.

2. Picture-Perfect Meals

It’s no secret that social media is still a major influence over the food and beverage industry and will be a restaurant trend for 2025. Now more than ever, consumers are deciding which restaurants to try based on social media content. If you want diners to spot your dishes online, you’ll want to make sure your menus cater to the influencer crowd.

You can bring online buzz to your operation in three steps:

1. Create one or multiple menu items that are especially appealing through photos or videos.
2. Post about your dish on all of your official social media accounts. Encourage your associates to share!
3. Team up with local influencers to share the buzz. You can offer them free samples or discounts to post about your menu item.

This social media attention can translate to more recognition for your restaurant that goes beyond your new special dish.

3. Guests Ask for Asian Cuisines

International flavors have held consumers’ attentions for several years now. However, the cuisines in focus have changed. Right now, many types of Asian cuisines are front and center for diners.

If you’re looking to take advantage of this restaurant trend for 2025, you may want to explore the culinary traditions of:

               Korea – dishes like bibimbap and ingredients like kimchi are popular now.

               Vietnam – Pho soups have begun popping up on menus across operations.

               China – chili oil has become a popular addition to many dishes and tabletop condiments.

Asian-fusion dishes are also taking American restaurants by storm. Consumers are ordering everything from birria ramen to kimchi pasta.

4. Exploring Middle Eastern Flavors

Following the theme of international bites, consumers are seeking out Middle Eastern flavors – particularly dishes that feature za’atar.

Za’atar is a culinary herb that’s usually included in a spice mix of salt, toasted sesame seeds, dried sumac, and other spices. Bold and aromatic, this spice blend has found its way into many popular dishes, being used to season meats, salads, potatoes, and even flatbreads.

5. Slate a Snack Menu

Not hungry enough for a full meal? Try a snack. According to a study by E15, “81% of consumers skip lunch at least once a week in favor of snacks.”

Your operation can cater to these grazers by expanding your appetizer and tapa menus. These offerings also provide a great opportunity to test new menu items, as diners may be more inclined to try something new in the form of a small plate.

Plan Your Menus Today

Consumers tastes are always changing. You want your menus to have the flexibility to change with them. Foodbuy Foodservice’s Culinary Solutions Team can help you adjust your procurement process to meet all of your operation’s needs.

This team of trained culinarians and procurement experts offers support for:

• Menu planning
• SKU reduction
• Purchasing optimization
• Training process improvement

Learn more about the Foodbuy Culinary Solutions Team by emailing [email protected] today.