Posted by Middleby Dec 20, 2024 12:46 PM

Top Eight Foodservice Trends for 2025

As we approach 2025, the foodservice industry is poised for changes that will shape menus, reconfigure operations, and enhance customer experiences. Based on insights from Technomic, the National Restaurant Association, and other key sources, we’ve identified eight critical areas driving the future of foodservice. Whether you’re an independent restaurant operator or a corporate dining director, these trends offer actionable opportunities that today’s operators should all consider. Let’s take a look at the top eight foodservice trends for 2025, according to Middleby.

Value with a Purpose

Value isn’t just about discounts anymore. With 72% of consumers actively seeking value menu options and 71% reporting they save money with value menu items, operators are getting creative with their approaches. Rather than straight discounting, 55% of operators are incorporating value-focused limited time offers (LTOs) that drive traffic. The strategy is working — 66% of consumers say they’re more likely to visit restaurants offering value items.

Turning Up the Heat

The 2024 heat wave on menus is evolving into something more nuanced. Rather than pure spice, operators are exploring complex pepper profiles that balance heat with other flavor notes. Trending peppers include aji charapita (spicy-fruity-floral), goat horn (spicy-fruity-sweet), and morita (spicy-fruity-smoky). Restaurants are also exploring innovative preparations like candied chilies, pepper jams, hot honey, and spicey syrups that offer more controlled heat experiences.

Regional Classics Reimagined

American regional favorites are getting creative makeovers that respect tradition while embracing innovation. Examples include collard green hot dip served with house-made tortilla chips and cauliflower burnt ends that put a plant-based twist on Kansas City barbecue. Traditional items like Southern spoonbread are being elevated with premium ingredients and modern techniques. Regional classics are being reimagined through upscale variations or by integrating current menu trends, all while preserving the appeal of timeless traditions.

The Beverage Boom

Non-alcoholic beverages are driving significant growth, with specialty beverage concepts projected to see sales increases ranging from 37% to 103%. Cold brew leads the charge, followed by wellness drinks infused with functional ingredients. The rise of creative concepts like boba tea and specialty coffee shops indicates consumers are willing to pay premium prices for unique beverage experiences.

The Egg Evolution

Following the meteoric rise of chicken on menus, eggs are now taking center stage with innovative preparations, confirming once and for all that the chicken came before the egg. Global influences are apparent, with dishes like Korean bibimbap and Japanese onsen eggs gaining popularity. According to Technomic’s Menu Research & Insights, trending egg pairings include sesame sauce (+77%), cauliflower rice (+75%), and gochujang (+68%).

Chain Resurgence

Limited-service restaurants are projected to see 2.0% real growth in 2025, outpacing the industry average of 1.9%. Quick-service and fast-casual concepts are finding success by balancing value propositions with menu innovation. After a challenging period of high menu prices, chains will return to historical norms with more strategic pricing approaches.

Labor Solutions & Smart Kitchen Integration

With staffing challenges continuing, operators will focus on equipment and technology that enhances efficiency without compromising quality. Labor accounts for 20-30% of restaurant costs in an industry where average profit margins are between 3-5%, making automation and efficiency crucial for sustainability. The integration of ventless equipment, automation, and IoT solutions is accelerating to help mitigate these challenges. From automated cooking systems to smart monitoring platforms, technology is helping operators maximize space, reduce labor costs, and maintain consistency.

Driving Generational Traffic

Understanding the current generational “changing of the guard” means targeting Millennials with on-trend flavors, sustainable practices, and adaptable menu formats. As Millennials step into middle age, they are shaping foodservice trends in significant ways. Often balancing work, family, and health-conscious habits, this generation is fueling demand for offerings like cold brew coffee and wellness-driven beverages, driving cold brew coffee to the top of the National Restaurant Association’s beverage charts. Meanwhile, Technomic highlights that operators are responding to millennial-driven preferences with more value-focused LTO’s, a trend we touched on above.

Looking Ahead at the Foodservice Trends of 2025

As the industry moves into 2025, success will come from balancing these trends with individual operational needs. The most successful operators will be those who can maintain quality and service while adapting to changing consumer preferences and operational challenges. With consumer confidence returning and inflation moderating, 2025 presents an opportunity for significant growth and innovation in the foodservice sector. Stay current by signing up to receive more from the Middleby LEARN blog.