What out-of-home food trends should restaurants watch out for?

Almost 1 in 2 consumers in Britain keep up with the latest trends.

There are six big food trends that restaurant brands should watch out for, research by CGA by NIQ revealed.

Citing data from the CGA by NIQ Food Insights23 Report revealed that 45% of consumers in Britain like to keep up with the latest trends and fashions. This means keeping on top of these trends and understanding what might be coming next can help brands stay ahead in this competitive market.  

The top big food trends from the past year according to CGA by NIQ are:

1. Detroit style pizza - A classic dish with a twist. This is typically a deep-dish pizza that stands out with a thick, airy, rectangular crust and has crispy, cheesy edges with tomato sauce on top. Almost a third of the consumers who have heard of this dish are willing to try it if it is easily available. 
2. Sustainable Eating – Foraging - This is a trend, recently popularised on TikTok, that is easy to go wrong with if left to your own devices. The aim of many who seek out foraged food in the out of home, is to eat sustainably by eating from their backyard instead of buying things that are shipped. 1 in 5 consumers has heard of this trend whilst 6% have tried it already 18% are willing to try it. 
3. Sweet Heat - The Food Insights report reveals the growing popularity of honey infused with chilli peppers, also known as Hot Honey. Seen as a healthier alternative to other sweet and sour sauces, the combination of sweetness and spicy has proven a popular choice and has continued to grow in popularity.  
4. Watermelon… Fish? - Marinated and cubed watermelon in a blend of seasonings to mimic tuna is regularly added to poke bowls, sushi, and more. Less common than other trends, 7% of consumers have encountered this vegan-friendly swap, whilst 12% are willing to give it a try.  
5. Bottomless Sunday Roasts - Operators are starting to introduce bottomless Sunday roasts, which are proving to be appealing for boozy catch-ups with friends or a special celebration meal. Almost a third of consumers have heard of this new trend, 35% are willing to give it a go, and 12% have already tested the twist on this British classic. 
6. Sharing plates - 48% of consumers have ordered small/sharing plates when eating out in the last 6 months. This trend appeals to consumers who want to try different options (45%), enjoy variety that suits a whole group (37%), or enjoy more choice and flexibility (35%). Over a quarter of consumers see sharing plates as better value for money.

“Diners are more demanding than ever. To capture their spend and their loyalty, it’s vital to get an accurate, in-depth and data-driven understanding of the food and serves they want when they eat out. Our research builds the foundations for effective menu strategies to sustain sales and gain share in this competitive climate,” Andy Hodgson, CGA by NIQ’s Senior Business Development Manager, said

The CGA by NIQ’s Food Insights Report 2023 reveals the big trends in out-of-home eating that is likely to continue into the new year and where the opportunities for suppliers and operators lie.