#dining-trends

#dining-trends

When we go to restaurants in 2026, we'll be looking for spicy flavors, new takes on old favorites and some good company. That according to dining trend reports that come out this time of year. We're looking at three of them, each compiled with its own research methods. They reach different conclusions but there's a lot of overlap. We'll begin with Yelp, the social media platform, whose researchers look for rising words, phrases and business mentions from millions of searches and reviews.

"I looked at the challenge as: How do we make Chili's relevant again?" This highlights the focus on revitalizing the brand to attract past customers and new diners alike.

"I think we're going to start to see more restaurants that are sort of like time capsules, where there's this interesting reinterpretation - futuristic, but with this nostalgia to it."

The Caesar salad's widespread popularity in the U.S. stems from its creamy, salty, crunchy, and fresh qualities, making it a highly customizable dish.

OpenTable reports a steep rise in 6pm bookings, up 11% in London and 6% across the UK compared to last year, indicating a shift in dining habits.

California boasts some of the best pizza spots in the country, capable of rivaling traditional destinations like New York and Chicago. Outta Sight in San Francisco is highlighted for its long-fermented sourdough crust and unique toppings such as Peking duck. Meanwhile, Rose Pizzeria in Berkeley stands out for its original style that merges aspects of both Neapolitan and New York pizzas, featuring sweet tomato and creamy white sauces. These California pizzerias represent a renaissance in American pizza.

"The term 'power lunch' was coined in an article by Lee Eisenberg... to describe the number of powerful business people who dined at The Four Seasons restaurant in New York City."

The daunting reality of the restaurant industry means many establishments, particularly non-chain ones, operate on borrowed time, making each visit potentially your last.

In recent years, the paradigm of tasting menus has shifted dramatically. No longer does one have to invest five hours and a small fortune to enjoy this culinary experience.

As the fast food scene adapts, some chains are venturing into the alcohol realm, transforming the perception of quick-service dining and expanding their offerings.

"According to the Times, a number of upmarket London restaurants have started to embrace late-night dining, indicating a shift in British dining habits."

As dining reservations evolve into a sought-after commodity, access has become competitive, with scalpers reselling prime tables and premium cards offering exclusive access.

Omakase has become more than just a dining choice; it's a social experience where chefs share their artistry directly with diners, creating a unique connection.

Lawyers working for a housing charity sued Haringey council using fake AI-generated cases, leading to strong disapproval from the judge overseeing the case.

The Buffet at Luxor was a beloved dining option in Las Vegas, offering affordability and accessibility, but it closed in 2025, reflecting changing dining trends.

Pizza Hut is responding to nostalgia in its plans to revive the buffet dining experience, acknowledging its cultural significance in American dining history.