Restaurant Industry Trends for 2024
The restaurant industry is constantly evolving to meet changing consumer demands and leverage new technologies. As we enter 2024, several key trends are emerging that will shape the future of restaurants. Understanding these trends can help restaurant owners stay ahead of the curve and create memorable dining experiences.
Top Restaurant Industry Trends
#1 Plant-Based Menu Options
With rising health and environmental consciousness, plant-based menu options will continue growing in popularity. Restaurants should consider adding more vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian choices made from ingredients like legumes, nuts, vegetables, and whole grains. Creative meatless dishes and plant-based alternatives appeal to a broader demographic.
#2 Hyper-Local Sourcing
Consumers increasingly want to know where their food comes from. Locally sourced ingredients provide transparency and support local communities. Restaurants can partner with area farms and purveyors to feature local, seasonal produce, meats, dairy, and beverages. Promoting hyper-local sourcing on menus taps into diners’ desires to eat more sustainably.
#3 Experiential Dining
Unique experiences beyond just a meal are a top priority for consumers today. Restaurants should incorporate interactive elements like chef’s tables, cocktail mixing classes, wine and beer tastings, hands-on cooking demos, and immersive dining events. Experiential dining makes visits memorable and shareable on social media.
#4 Off-Premise Dining
Off-premise dining through takeaway, delivery, and ghost kitchens exploded during the pandemic. Although dine-in has rebounded, off-premise remains essential for reaching customers and driving sales. Restaurants must optimise operations for to-go, delivery, drive-thru, mobile ordering, and other emerging off-site channels.
#5 Sophisticated Kids’ Menus
Gone are the days of plain chicken fingers and chips for kids. Parents seek healthier, global-inspired cuisine made from high-quality ingredients for children. Upgrading kids’ menus to include trendy “foodie” options makes restaurants more family-friendly. Consider adding ethnic dishes, plant-based items, customisable bento boxes, and innovative beverages.
Top Restaurant Marketing Trends
#1 Influencer Marketing
In 2024 and beyond, social media marketing will be indispensable for restaurants. Strategic use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok along with influencer collaborations spreads brand awareness. Restaurants should convey their unique value proposition through engaging social content and work with local foodie influencers on promotions.
#2 Online Reviews + Reputation Management
Online reviews significantly sway restaurant selection, so managing your reputation will be critical. Respond promptly to all reviews, highlight your strengths, and show commitment to continuously improving any weaknesses mentioned. Provide surveys to proactively gather customer feedback after dining.
#3 Contactless Technology
Tech-enabled, contactless solutions have become the norm, from mobile ordering and payment to self-serve kiosks. Integrating the latest innovations like QR code menus and frictionless checkout enhances convenience and safety. Contactless tech should provide options, not totally replace human hospitality.
#4 Digital + Delivery Innovation
As delivery demand rises, restaurants need digital innovation to compete. Optimising websites and apps for seamless online ordering is essential. Investing in owned delivery fleets or virtual restaurant solutions can boost profit margins compared to third-party marketplaces.
Useful Resources for Keeping Up with Restaurant Trends
Foodable: Multimedia platform exploring restaurant trends, strategies, and success stories
Toast: Restaurant technology provider offering articles, ebooks, and reports on innovation
SevenRooms: Hospitality CRM company providing guest experience insights and strategies
The restaurant landscape in 2024 will favour establishments embracing the consumer-driven trends around sustainability, technology, customisation, and experiential dining. By keeping pace with changing demands and industry advancements, restaurants can thrive in the coming years. Those who rigidly cling to the status quo risk falling behind the competition.
