Does your restaurant still serve craft wines, house-made aiolis, and entrees that come out in a silver tray? Newsflash: diners don’t want this anymore. Get your restaurant ready for 2026 with our brand new guide on “Top Restaurant Trends to Know in the New Year.” Read more below!

Farm-to-Table is Still Huge for Diners:

Years ago, in a Portlandia sketch, a couple dining at a restaurant inquires about the chicken featured on the menu. Their questions intensify: did the chicken have a good life? did he have lots of friends? In the end, the couple ends up driving to the farm to verify if the chicken, in fact, had a decent raising. While the sketch was an extreme example, many diners  are curious about where their food is coming from. Opt for designing a menu that includes  information about the specific poultry & cattle featured on the menu.

New Technology Advancements Are Being Implemented:

AI is taking over, including in the reservation system department. AI-powered reservation systems are a popular choice for diners because they provide personalized guest interactions and smoother service flow. Automated systems for bar inventory and guest management help reduce errors and boost efficiency. The goal is for your staff to spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time providing genuine hospitality. With the right technology choices, every guest enjoys a tailored and efficient meal.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks Aren’t Going Anywhere:

“Spirit” free cocktails had a big year in 2025. Don’t expect the hype to slow down anytime soon. As reported by the Post, “Zero-proof spirit sales have jumped 22% in the last year,” with many Americans now swapping booze for booze-less drinks during an outing. To keep diners happy, consider upgrading your “spirit-free” cocktail menu with new signature cocktails, including spin-off versions of classic alcoholic drinks.

Sustainability is Re-defining the Dining Experience:

Over the last few years, sustainability has been a big buzzword in the restaurant industry. From waste-reducing kitchens to environmentally-sourced materials, sustainable practices allow diners to enjoy their eating experience without any feelings of guilt. Consider implementing sustainable practices into your restaurant’s daily operations, even if it’s something as small as recycling.

Need Help Implementing New Trends into Your Restaurant’s Strategy? Contact Avery Restaurant Consulting Today!

As an award-winning restaurant & hospitality consulting company, Avery can help turn your restaurant around today. To learn more about our consulting services, contact us online or call us at (617) 970 – 8566. We’ll be in touch soon.