Consumer Trends

Chains and independent restaurants are increasingly using unusual ingredients and preparations for side dishes to draw consumers and increase check averages. 

Design expert Foster Frable discusses the emergence of open kitchens in restaurant dining rooms.

GrubHub finds that consumers order light, fresh menu items more frequently during warmer weather

Some mixologists are brushing up on Asian flavors and ingredients, exploring an exciting new palette for painting the cocktail. They are splashing that quintessential American art form with shades of umeboshi, tamarind, kimchi, jackfruit and...

More than 40 percent of customers would like the option to order meals online

Restaurants across segments are using superfoods to differentiate healthful menu offerings and generate sales from health-conscious consumers.

Bojangles’, Blimpie, Rock Bottom, Habit Burger Grill, South Philly Steaks & Fries, and Lazy Dog also introduce new menu items.

Company also reports 22-percent increase in first-quarter profit

VP of product innovation Jason Henderson discusses grilled menu items meant to appeal to Millennials