Top Bar Trends for 2024

As we look ahead to 2024, several emerging bar trends project to shape consumer preferences and play a significant role in the industry moving forward. Whether you've just opened a bar or have worked in the bar industry for years, you should always be ready to adapt, innovate, and meet the shifting expectations of your customers. The demand for new experiences and flavors, increased focus on making healthy choices, and a shifting conversation about alcohol will all affect what consumers want. Innovative new techniques and automated technologies may also play a role in shaping the future of the bar industry. We'll project the top trends of 2024 and how your business can adopt them below.



shot glass being filled with asian liquor

Asian Flavors

In 2023, Western markets saw an increased interest in Asian cocktails, particularly those from Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan. This trend projects to grow even more popular in 2024, with restaurants and bars featuring Asian ingredients and garnishes prominently in their signature drinks. Soju, a South Korean liquor commonly compared to vodka, is particularly popular. It is typically enjoyed on its own but can be used as a base to craft new cocktails with an Asian twist. Japanese whiskey and sake have also grown to prominence, and knowing how to serve sake traditionally can create a more authentic experience for your guests. You can also consider experimenting with Asian fruits, such as Yuzu, as an ingredient or garnish in your cocktails.

ginger shots on a cutting board

Adaptogen Drinks

Many consumers are looking to make healthier drinking choices, and one way to do so is by searching for drinks that offer perceived health benefits. Adaptogen drinks are meant to promote well-being and can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a sleep aid, for digestive health, and for stress relief. CBD drinks, ginger shots, and ashwagandha cocktails are just a few examples of popular adaptogen drinks on the market, and in 2024 bar owners will look to embrace new drink recipes and ingredients. With the demand for healthier beverage options on the rise, incorporating adaptogens into creative and flavorful drink recipes can be a game-changer for any bar looking to stay ahead of the competition.

non alcoholic cocktails

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

The broader cultural shift towards health and wellness has led many consumers to reconsider their approach to alcohol consumption. People are more open to discussing and exploring their relationship with alcohol, leading to the rise of terms like sober curious. Being sober curious doesn't mean a person is completely sober, but rather that they are cutting back their alcohol intake and believe they don't need to be drunk to enjoy their night out. To cater to this growing demand, restaurants and bars offer elevated mocktails and a wider variety of non-alcoholic beverages crafted with the same level of creativity and attention to detail as their alcoholic counterparts. Other business owners are taking a different approach and opening sober bars, giving alcohol-conscious consumers more places to visit.

fancy cocktail with smoke and a lemon garnish

Elevated Cocktails

As the price of drinks continues to rise, many consumers are naturally considering how much they want to pay for a night out. People are willing to pay more for a drink if it means an increased focus on quality, creativity, and overall experience, creating an increased demand for high-quality ingredients, recipe enhancements, and new takes on classic cocktails. Mixologists are responding to this demand by creating bold new flavor combinations and elevated presentation techniques that take the cocktail experience to the next level. Whether you're using infused spirits, house-made syrups, artisanal bitters, or exotic fruits, adding depth, complexity, and visual appeal to your drinks is an easy way to attract guests moving forward.

person taking picture of cocktail

Instagramable Bars and Drinks

More than ever, people are looking for things they can capture and share on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. For bars, it's no longer just about serving great drinks; it's about creating an ambiance and experience that is visually stunning and worth sharing. Bar owners are embracing elevated decor, unique lighting options, and new design trends to create photo opportunities and establish themselves as a destination. Meanwhile, bartenders are utilizing eye-catching garnishes, creative glassware selections, and bold presentation techniques to add a touch of charm and personality to their drinks. Sharing drinks on your bar’s social media accounts and encouraging guests to do the same is also an easy way to generate free advertising opportunities.

pink floral cocktails with lemon slices

Floral Cocktails

Cocktails featuring floral flavors have grown popular in recent years and are poised to grow even more in 2024. These refreshing aromatic drinks are popular during spring and summer but can be enjoyed year-round with the right preparation and recipes. Encourage your bartenders to experiment with ingredients like lavender, rose, jasmine, and ginger to create unique and enticing cocktails. You can also invest in specialty liquors infused with various herbs, flowers, and spices, bringing a distinctive and complex flavor profile to your menu. Edible flowers, including lavender and roses, can be used as a garnish and an ingredient, adding an extra layer of detail to your drinks.

espresso martini

Coffee Cocktails

The rise of cocktails like the espresso martini has paved the way for more coffee-inspired cocktails to emerge in 2024. Inspired by the espresso martini's success, bartenders across the globe are now incorporating coffee flavors into their signature creations. Consider featuring Irish coffees, cold brew negronis, and a variety of other coffee-based cocktails on your menu to capitalize on this trend. You can also experiment with using coffee-flavored liqueur or coffee beans as a garnish. Whether it's a brunch event, an after-dinner gathering, or a late-night celebration, coffee cocktails can add a unique and sophisticated touch to any occasion.

clarified cocktail

Clarified Drinks

Cocktail clarification is a technique in which bartenders remove unwanted particles from their ingredients, creating clear and well-balanced cocktails. The result is a visually appealing beverage with an enhanced flavor and texture. In most cases, the unwanted particles are present as a result of how liquor and other cocktail ingredients are made, and by removing these particles you can improve their shelf life. Common cocktail clarification techniques include milk washing, gravity straining, agar clarification, and centrifugation. It's important to note that these methods can vary in complexity and results.

As the bar industry evolves, establishments need to stay ahead of trends. By understanding the changing landscape of consumer preferences, bartenders and bar owners can create unique and memorable experiences that cater to a variety of tastes and lifestyles. Discover restaurant industry statistics to get a picture of the current state of the broader foodservice industry.

Posted in: Bars & Breweries|Foodservice Trends|By Jason Kurtz
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  • Top Coffee and Tea Trends of 2024

    In 2024, coffee culture will become more enigmatic than ever before. To attract customers, coffee professionals are using unique brewing methods, catering to the ready-to-drink market, and creating extravagant presentations. When tea rose to prominence in 2023, most coffee shops started offering tea lattes, kombucha, and loose-leaf teas. Modern coffee shop food menus are often extensive, events are common, and wine lists aren’t out of place. Perhaps it's time to put the term "coffee shop" to rest in favor of "all-day cafe". From trends affecting the entire foodservice industry to menu trends, discover what you can expect to see emerge in the nonalcoholic beverage industry this year. <figure> </figure> Premiumization While it may seem counterintuitive given rising costs for both customers and operators, premiumization is key to coffee shops' success in 2024. Considering hard economic times, customers want their coffee shop drink to offer a pretty distraction that feels like a treat and looks great in photos. Many customers learned how to make specialty coffee drinks, (ex. Dalgona Coffee) at home during the pandemic, so, if they’re going to spend money at a coffee shop, they want to be served something they cannot create themselves (at least not without great difficulty). <figure> </figure> Coffee Food Trucks and Carts Coffee food trucks and carts have a lower startup cost than opening a coffee shop storefront. During this economically challenging year, mobile vending will allow new entrepreneurs to enter the coffee market, and storefront owners who are having difficulty breaking even can shift to this model to remain profitable. Another benefit of starting a food truck is it allows you to go to your target audience. Park your food truck near college campuses, hospitals, and sports stadiums. You can also set up booths at farmers' markets and other local events. <figure> </figure> Hybrid Business Models Coffee shops that only sell coffee are almost non-existent, and even creative coffee and food pairings aren’t enough to stand out anymore. Many coffee businesses are offering other services like bookstores, Pilates, and sober bars to attract more customers. What's even more cost-effective is to approach an existing business and ask to add a coffee program to their operation. By adding on to a business with a location and core customer base already in place, you can cut your operational costs and reduce the need to advertise. <figure> </figure> Tea Bombs Tea bombs are a blend of tea and botanicals encased within a dissolvable, isomalt sugar shell. When hot water is poured over the sugar globe, it dissolves and adds sweetness to the beverage while enabling the tea ingredients to steep. With their captivating visual appeal and unique flavor profiles, tea bombs have taken TikTok by storm and become a huge hit among tea enthusiasts. Coffee shops and tea bars will be creating a luxurious experience for their customers by adding tea bombs to their menus in 2024. <figure> </figure> Themed Pop-Up Events Operators are embellishing the aesthetic of their coffee shop and coming up with creative menu items for themed pop-ups and events. Themed pop-ups, like transforming your business into Central Perk from the sitcom Friends, can draw huge crowds, especially if it's advertised on TikTok and other social media platforms. To be successful, play into pop culture with cult followings. Examples are offering a Hobbit Day menu on September 22nd, a Star Wars theme on May 4th, or playing into fall vibes by creating a Gilmore Girls-inspired Stars Hollow Fall Festival pop-up. These events are also great opportunities to sell themed, branded merchandise. <figure> </figure> Floral Tisanes Floral flavors like jasmine, rose, lavender, hibiscus, and eucalyptus are expected to experience steady growth in the year 2024 according to Jaime Lynn Lawrence, an R&D application scientist at Flavor Insights. This projection is based on the ever-increasing demand for health and wellness products among consumers. Since the rise of tea is dually motivated by its artfulness and health benefits, floral tisanes align perfectly with both motivating factors. Lavender is known for its calming properties, while hibiscus is rich in antioxidants. Floral teas also create a luxurious feeling, especially when garnished with edible flowers. <figure> </figure> Cold Foam According to Texas Coffee School, cold coffee drinks outnumber hot coffee drinks year-round, and they’re a favorite amongst Gen Z. Cold foam has gained celebrity status alongside the trend towards cold coffee. Cold foam turns cold brew into a gourmet beverage that rivals lattes and cappuccinos. Coffee shops will continue to come up with creative cold foam flavors to enhance their iced coffees and cold brews. Cold foam can act as a pillowy shelf to hold sprinkled-on sweet treats like cookie crumbles, spices, and chopped candies, creating Instagram-worthy drinks. <figure> </figure> DIY Tea Blends As tea continues to gain traction with Gen Z, a creative trend is to offer patrons the opportunity to build their own tea blend. Customers can choose from different types of tea and tisane ingredients to create a DIY tea blend that suits their personal flavor preferences. Operators can either brew their customers' DIY tea or sell it for them to take home. Patrons increasingly want to customize their beverages, and they also are looking for unique experiences when they go out. DIY tea blends are an excellent way to capture both trends and fulfill consumer preferences. <figure> </figure> Drive-Thrus Drive-thru coffee has become an increasingly popular option for busy Americans on the go. Statistics reveal that a staggering 50 percent of Americans now prefer to get their coffee from drive-thru operations. This trend is driven by the convenience and speed that an efficient drive-thru offers. With this significant demand, many coffee shops are adding drive-thrus or even adopting a drive-thru-only business model. <figure> </figure> Blue Moon Thai Tea Blue moon Thai tea is a trendy and refreshing beverage that will gain mainstream popularity in 2024. This unique drink is a blend of butterfly pea tea, black tea, and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. Blue moon Thai tea is often served over ice and topped with boba pearls. Its vibrant blue hue and delicious flavor have blue moon Thai tea trending in coffee shops as well as traditional boba businesses. <!-- </div> --> What Is Driving 2024's Coffee and Tea Industry Trends? Digital exposure to trends, a post-pandemic mindset shift, and the economic climate are the key drivers behind the coffee and tea industry trends in 2024. The public is highly engaged with social media; the average daily time spent on social media apps is 3.5 hours in America, which equates to 1,300 hours a year according to a Uswitch study. Subsequently, consumers are exposed to a plethora of information and trends, shaping their preferences and choices. Another driving force is the lasting fallout from the pandemic which created a mindset shift towards prioritizing health, wellness, and sustainability. This shift has led to an increased demand for specialty and functional beverages, such as herbal teas and organic, single-origin coffee. Lastly, the economic climate plays a crucial role, as businesses adapt to changing consumer behaviors and preferences while navigating the challenges posed by supply chain disruptions and rising costs. 1. Digital Exposure: In our digital age, we are exposed to countless trends, cultural traditions, and information throughout the day. Customers expect the same breadth of options and creativity in their reality as they see online. 2. Post-Pandemic Mindset Shift: In a post-pandemic world, the consumer desires either convenience or experiential foodservice experiences they can’t get at home. 3. Economic Climate: Many of these innovations are driven by the resourcefulness of operators working to stay afloat. With rising costs, coffee professionals must be strategic in how they operate and increase the perceived value of their services. Long gone are the days when coffee shops just offered classic coffee drinks. While traditional cappuccinos and lattes were once luxuries, they've become commonplace. From changes in operational practices to menu trends, reference back to our list of the top coffee and tea industry trends of 2024 to increase your profit margins. Read our roundup of relevant restaurant industry statistics for a comprehensive view of the current state of the foodservice industry. <aside class="pquote"> <blockquote> The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details. </blockquote> </aside>

  • Top Food Trends of 2024

    The foodservice landscape of 2024 is being influenced by various factors such as inflation, the growing demand for healthier food choices, and the increasing need for sustainable dining options. In this era, customers seek either convenience or an exceptional dining experience that surpasses what they can create at home. To help you keep your menu up-to-date and appealing, we will guide you through the latest product and flavor trends of 2024. <figure> </figure> Upscaling Cheaper Cuts of Meat Chefs are getting creative with cheap meat cuts, turning them into gourmet dishes that are both delicious and cost-effective. From braised beef cheeks to slow-cooked pork belly, these affordable cuts are being transformed into culinary masterpieces. Additionally, organ meats like liver and heart are making a comeback, adding a unique and flavorful twist to dishes. By utilizing these budget-friendly options, restaurants can offer their customers high-quality meals at a fraction of the cost. <figure> </figure> Simplifying Plant-Based Foods As consumers continue to prioritize their health, there is a noticeable shift away from highly processed meat alternatives towards whole food plant-based choices. Think veggie burgers crafted from real vegetables rather than containing a lengthy list of unfamiliar ingredients. Embrace this trend by introducing distinctive menu items that utilize whole, unrefined, or minimally refined plant-based ingredients. From creamy mushroom stroganoff to hearty grain bowls, these dishes meet the rising demand for healthier and more sustainable options. <figure> </figure> Ethical and Transparent Sourcing Each year consumers become increasingly more conscious about their dietary choices and the health of the environment. They are seeking greater transparency when it comes to the ingredients in their food, the origins of their meals, and the sustainability of their food choices. With economic considerations in mind, many individuals feel the need to justify every purchase they make. Consequently, they are more inclined to pay more for brands that openly prioritize supply chain transparency, sustainably sourced ingredients, and nutritional products over those that don't share any information. <figure> </figure> Seed Oil-Free Products When it comes to making healthier choices in our diets, many consumers are now paying closer attention to the types of oils used in their favorite foods. In recent years, seed oils have come under scrutiny due to their inflammatory properties. As a result, more and more people are becoming interested in what oil restaurants use to fry their products and what oil brands use in their packaged foods. Seed oil-free tortillas, chips, snacks, and condiments are now becoming a huge selling point for health-conscious individuals who want to avoid the potential negative effects of seed oils. <figure> </figure> Snacks as Meals With busy schedules and a desire for convenience, consumers are looking for snacks that are not only tasty but also filling and nutritious. Inspired by the “girl dinner” and “adult Lunchables” trends on TikTok, many have started replacing formal meals, especially lunch, with an assortment of snacks. Restaurants can capitalize on this trend by offering to-go snack boxes complete with protein, vegetables, fruit, and chips paired with sweet and savory dips. Think charcuterie on the go! <figure> </figure> Cultural Flavor Fusion This trend involves creating dishes that blend together different cultural flavors for unexpected and exciting flavor pairings. With consumers becoming more adventurous and open-minded when it comes to food, they are using their meals as a way to explore different cultures and cuisines. From Korean tacos to Indian-inspired pizzas, chefs and food enthusiasts are embracing the fusion of diverse culinary traditions. <figure> </figure> Ancient Grains We can expect to see a surge in the use of ancient grains as key ingredients in grain bowls, baked goods, and gluten-free foods. While buckwheat is predicted to be the "it" grain of the year, other types of ancient grains like millet, amaranth, and teff will also gain popularity. Consumers are increasingly seeking out biodiversity in their food choices and are turning away from traditional wheat-based products. These ancient grains not only offer unique flavors and textures but also boast impressive nutritional profiles. <figure> </figure> Floral Flavors From lavender and rose to hibiscus and elderflower, botanical flavors have long been revered for their medicinal properties while delivering a delicate, earthy flavor and natural sweetness to recipes. Floral flavors are particularly trending with coffee and tea, and have begun to make their way onto more cocktail menus. Bartenders are experimenting with floral-infused spirits and liqueurs to create unique and fragrant concoctions garnished with edible flowers. In the culinary space, floral flavors are bringing a whimsical and romantic touch to baked goods, bread, honey, jams, and ice cream. <!-- </div> --> What Can We Take Away from This Year's Food Trends? In all of these emerging food trends, there are a few general takeaways that you should keep in mind when updating your menu. Inflation Continues to Have a Major Influence on Food Trends As prices rise, people are becoming more conscious of their spending and are looking for ways to stretch their dollar. They are opting for more cost-effective options when dining out, such as choosing restaurants that offer affordable menus or seeking out promotions and discounts. They are also justifying a high price tag if a brand is sustainable and aligns with their values or if a restaurant offers unique, global-inspired dishes and drinks they perceive as a luxury and an experience. Inflation is also driving a renewed interest in local and seasonal ingredients. As the cost of transporting food across long distances increases, consumers are looking for ways to support local businesses and reduce their carbon footprint. Restaurants can capitalize on this trend by sourcing ingredients from local farmers and highlighting the use of seasonal produce in their dishes. Not only does this appeal to environmentally conscious customers, but it also allows restaurants to showcase the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. Plant-Based Options Continue to Grow The plant-based food market has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2024. As traditional meat prices continue to climb and sustainability continues to be a driving purchasing factor, consumers are exploring alternative sources of protein that are affordable but also offer a range of health and environmental benefits. An area within the plant-based food market that continues to see significant growth is plant-based seafood options. As consumers become more mindful of sustainability and the impact of overfishing in our oceans, they are seeking out alternatives to traditional seafood. Moreover, consumers are becoming more conscious of the ingredients and processing methods used in their food. They are increasingly looking for less-processed plant-based options that offer a healthier alternative to heavily processed foods. Food trends are in constant fluctuation with the state of the economy and social media outlets like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Craft your menu in the coming year to pique your customers' interests and keep up with the developing food trends of 2024! Check out restaurant industry statistics for a broader picture of the of the foodservice industry.

  • Top Foodservice Trends of 2024

    The foodservice industry has experienced numerous highs and lows in the past year, and we anticipate that 2024 will usher in sweeping innovation to adapt to the changing environment. With the rise of smart kitchen equipment, artificial intelligence, and other technological advancements, restaurants will encounter new frontiers in their approach to reaching and serving customers effectively. Moreover, consumer mindfulness and economic conditions create unique challenges for establishments in the coming year. Check out our predictions for the foodservice trends we expect to see in the new year. Labor Trends Marketing Trends Technology Trends Service Trends Restaurant Labor Trends As workers continue pushing for more benefits and staffing shortages remain rampant, restaurants are finding new ways to serve customers effectively and provide for their employees. Technology advancements will provide owners with resources to ease the burden of their staff, but high costs continue to drive restaurants and staff to find affordable solutions to prevent burnout. In 2024, many of the following labor trends will be influenced by tumultuous economic conditions as industries adjust to this new era. <figure> </figure> Robot Staff and Service Automation In 2024, your best busboy might be a robot. Several franchises nationwide have begun experimenting with utilizing robots to handle menial tasks that take up valuable time. From mobile bots serving tables to stationary kiosks for ordering, automation fills gaps left by staff shortages and allows employees to focus on other important tasks. Before making the shift to include more bot staff members, check that your establishment can handle everyday maintenance for this equipment, such as charging. Furthermore, examine your customer base to ensure they would react favorably to potential FOH automation in ordering or service. <figure> </figure> The Rise of Gen Z The Zoomers are entering the foodservice industry and will continue growing in relevancy in 2024. Gen Z grew up in the age of the internet, smartphones, and ever-advancing technology, so they're very open to technological innovation at their workplace. This new generation wants to work at a job they'll enjoy with exciting perks, a friendly culture, and a high emphasis on social responsibility. Attracting Gen Z to join your staff will require good pay and benefits, strong ethics and social responsibility, inclusion, and flexibility. Instituting these incentives will have long-term dividends, rewarding you with a hard-working, creative staff eager to learn and grow in the coming year. <figure> </figure> Increased Tipping Requests and Fatigue More and more businesses are asking customers to tip staff, including establishments with no history of requesting tips. This movement has led to tip fatigue that affects foodservice staff, who rely on tips as their primary source of income. In the coming year, we expect increasing tip fatigue to prompt restaurants to find innovative ways to balance this movement. An increase in automatic gratuity service charges ensures waitstaff receives proper compensation. <figure> </figure> Employee Activism In the past year, employee activism across numerous industries reached new heights, including several nationwide strikes lasting for months. With this precedent and the creation of unions for several major chains, we anticipate foodservice workers to take steps toward unionization as the norm. As an employer, this trend could delay or shut down your establishment's services, so budget accordingly. Additionally, educate yourself on labor laws, unions, and worker rights to handle situations that arise appropriately. Restaurant Marketing Trends With the rise of revolutionary technology, marketing techniques evolve to meet potential customers where they are. In the coming year, we anticipate advertisements and promotions to become even more accessible to consumers through location-based offers, QR codes, and voice search targeting. Additionally, experience-centric dining and "eatertainment" will entice customers to dine out instead of at home. <figure> </figure> Location-Based Marketing In an age of constant advertising bombardment, location-based marketing and proximity marketing will be the primary ways restaurants gain the attention of their customers. A smartphone is a staple of the modern-day consumer, and location-based marketing allows you to use that smartphone to distribute content, promotions, and services directly to nearby customers. Harnessing GPS coordinates, you can send push notifications with coupons and promotions to potential patrons when they enter a predefined geolocation. This trend allows you to attract impulse purchases, especially in busy locations with many options. <figure> </figure> "Eatertainment" With take-out and eating at home on the rise, restaurants need to find new ways to attract customers to their establishment. Experience-centric dining, or "eatertainment," offers fun activities and good food to make a night out more appealing. With opportunities ranging from live music to axe throwing to indoor sports, 2024 will usher in a wave of fun experiences to enjoy alongside a fantastic meal. Find a unique activity that pairs well with your available space and menu options to create an enjoyable experience that draws new customers looking for more than just good food. <figure> </figure> QR Codes in Advertisements QR codes have been a recent trend in restaurants as a way to download an app or access the menu. However, we predict that foodservice establishments will expand their use of QR codes to advertisements in other forms of media. While print marketing is less relevant than in previous years, restaurants can feature QR codes on billboards and flyers with special rewards and promotions. In other industries, businesses add QR codes on TV, web, and mobile advertisements for customers to visit their website or download their app. QR codes will grow in popularity as more restaurants create websites and apps. <figure> </figure> Voice Search Targeting The increase in smart home and car devices, such as Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home, opens a new search avenue for potential customers. In 2024, restaurants that utilize SEO techniques to target these voice queries will see more traffic and success online. We recommend optimizing your site around keywords used in voice search, such as a specific location, menu item, delivery option, or the ever-popular "near me." By harnessing this trend, you can tap into new markets and boost your restaurant's discoverability. Technology Trends It's clear that technology will continue to play a major role in reshaping the restaurant industry in 2024. Not only is A.I. poised to make major changes to the industry landscape, but other technologies like virtual reality and contactless payment are adding unique and convenient elements for customers to enjoy. From streamlining operations to creating immersive customer experiences, here are some exciting tech trends that are set to make waves in the coming year. <figure> </figure> A.I. in Restaurants The use of artificial intelligence is rapidly increasing across a slew of industries, and the restaurant industry is no different. Restaurant A.I. technology can be used to automate various tasks, such as taking orders, managing inventory, and analyzing customer data to personalize recommendations. By leveraging A.I. in 2024, restaurants can streamline operations, reduce costs, and provide faster, more accurate service to their customers. <figure> </figure> In-House Delivery Apps Although third-party delivery services have been trending in recent years, they come with some drawbacks restaurants have to deal with. These apps can bring high commission fees and potential loss of control over the customer experience. To alleviate these problems, many restaurants are expected to explore the option of developing in-house delivery apps in 2024. By investing in their delivery infrastructure, restaurants can maintain direct relationships with their customers, ensure timely and efficient deliveries, and even offer exclusive promotions tailored to their loyal patrons. <figure> </figure> No Contact Payment The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of contactless payment methods, and this trend is likely to continue into 2024 and beyond. No contact payment options, such as mobile wallets and QR codes, allow customers to pay for their meals without physically touching cash or credit cards. Not only does this provide a convenient and efficient payment experience, but it also enhances safety by minimizing physical contact between customers and staff. <figure> </figure> Immersive Technology Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) immersive technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way customers interact with restaurants. By creating immersive experiences, restaurants can engage customers on a whole new level, enticing them to visit, try new dishes, and share their experiences with others. In 2024 these technologies are expected to be used by some restaurants to provide virtual tours, farm-to-table journeys, and digital interactive menus to enhance the customer experience. Service Trends In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of foodservice, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. As we look ahead to 2024, it's important to consider the emerging trends that will shape the restaurant industry's service landscape. From trendy pop-up restaurants to unique and expansive kids' menus, here are some key service trends to keep an eye on heading into 2024. <figure> </figure> Pop-up Restaurants Pop-up restaurants have been gaining popularity in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2024. These businesses often take advantage of underutilized spaces, such as empty storefronts or rooftops, allowing chefs to showcase their culinary skills in unconventional locations. For customers, pop-up restaurants provide a sense of exclusivity and the chance to try something new and different. Pop-up restaurants are great for hosting special events while open, attracting a wide array of different clients. They could also serve as a soft opening of sorts, allowing entrepreneurs to test out restaurant concepts in a lower-risk environment. <figure> </figure> Sophisticated Kids' Menus Gone are the days of uninspiring chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese as the only options for young diners. Restaurants are recognizing the importance of catering to the evolving tastes of children and their parents, adding exciting new foods to their kids' menus. In 2024, expect to see more restaurants offering elevated and health-conscious options for children, such as grilled fish tacos or vegetable-packed pasta dishes. By providing nutritious and flavorful meals for children, restaurants can attract families who prioritize healthy foods and quality dining experiences for their little ones. <figure> </figure> Modified Hours With changing consumer habits and demands, many establishments are reevaluating their operating hours to better cater to their target audience. It’s predicted that more restaurants will be experimenting with ideas like extended breakfast hours, late-night menus, or even brunch-only service on weekends in 2024. By offering flexible hours, restaurants can tap into new customer segments and provide convenience for diners who have busy schedules or unconventional eating habits. On the other hand, staffing shortages are predicted to leave some restaurants short-staffed, further modifying hours and keeping these restaurants only open during the busiest portions of the day. <figure> </figure> Sustainability In 2024, more restaurants will prioritize sustainability trends like sourcing ingredients from regenerative farms and suppliers. Regenerative agriculture focuses on rebuilding soil health and biodiversity, while also helping to sequester carbon and reduce the environmental impact of food production. Other sustainability trends like eco-friendly packaging, energy efficiency, sustainable seafood, and plant-based food menus are expected to remain relevant in the upcoming year. As we move towards 2024, restaurant owners and operators are increasingly recognizing the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into their operations and catering to eco-friendly consumer groups. How Do Restaurant Trends Benefit Your Business? Paying attention to the foodservice trends that affect your business is one of the best ways to meet the needs of your customer base and stay competitive with the restaurants in your area. By observing how other eateries are evolving to meet current challenges, you might find some solutions that work for you. Check out restaurant industry statistics to get a full picture of the current state of the foodservice industry.

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