The 7 trends that will shape 2023 in the restaurant industry

Eating out has been a popular pastime for years, but the pandemic has forced restaurateurs to get creative and come up with new ideas that can keep customers coming back. As we look to the future and the restaurant industry starts to recover, it’s essential for owners and managers to stay on top of what’s hot in 2023. From customer-centric hospitality, strategically planned menus, and unique dining experiences, there are plenty of trends that can help restaurants gain an edge in the market. In this post, we will explore the top 7 restaurant trends that will shape 2023. Read on to find out what you should be doing next year to stay ahead of the competition.

Farm to table

The farm-to-table movement has been gaining popularity in the restaurant industry for several years now. The concept is simple: instead of sourcing ingredients from large commercial farms, restaurants source their ingredients from local farms. This allows them to serve fresher, more seasonal food, and it supports the local economy.

There are a few things that you need to keep in mind if you want to source your ingredients from a farm. First, you need to build relationships with farmers so that you can be sure to get the freshest, highest quality ingredients. Second, you need to be aware of the seasonality of certain ingredients and plan your menu accordingly. And finally, you need to be prepared to adjust your menu on the fly if there are any changes at the farm (for example, if they run out of a certain ingredient).

If you're thinking about making the switch to farm-to-table dining, here are a few resources to help you get started:

Farmers' Markets: A great way to find local farms and meet farmers in person. You can also get an idea of what's in season and what's available.

Localharvest: A website that connects small farmers with consumers. You can use their search tool to find farms near you and learn more about their operations.

Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food: A USDA initiative that provides information aboutfarmers markets, food hubs, and other direct-to-consumer outlets for locally

Plant-based dining

The plant-based dining trend is one that is here to stay. More and more people are interested in eating a plant-based diet, which is why we are seeing more and more restaurants offering plant-based options. This trend is not only good for your health, but it is also good for the environment.

Eating a plant-based diet has many benefits. Plant-based foods are typically lower in calories and saturated fat than animal products, and they are also a great source of fiber and vitamins. Eating a plant-based diet can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.

If you're looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, there are plenty of delicious options out there. From vegan burgers to lentil soup, there's something for everyone. And with more restaurants jumping on the trend, it's easier than ever to find plant-based meals when dining out.

Artisanal ingredients

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of restaurants using artisanal ingredients. This is because diners are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from and how it was made.

Artisanal ingredients are typically made by small-scale producers using traditional methods. This means that they often have a more intense flavor than mass-produced ingredients. As well as being more flavorful, artisanal ingredients can also be more nutritious.

There are a few reasons why restaurants might choose to use artisanal ingredients. Firstly, it can help them to stand out from the competition. Secondly, it can give diners a sense of confidence that they are eating high-quality food. Finally, it can help to support local businesses and promote sustainable farming practices.

If you're looking for a restaurant that uses artisanal ingredients, we've got a few recommendations for you. For example, The Spotted Pig in New York City is known for its use of locally sourced meats and produce. Or if you're in San Francisco, check out Zuni Cafe, which works with small farms and purveyors to get the best possible ingredients.

Ethnic cuisine

Ethnic cuisine is on the rise, with more and more restaurants offering dishes from around the world. This trend is being driven by both a desire for new and exciting flavors, and a need for more affordable options.

Some of the most popular ethnic cuisines include Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Japanese. These cuisines offer a wide range of flavors and textures that can be adapted to suit any palate. They also tend to be very budget-friendly, making them a great option for those looking to save money.

Another benefit of ethnic cuisine is that it tends to be healthier than many other options. This is because these cuisines typically use fresh ingredients and eschew processed foods. This means that you can enjoy delicious food without sacrificing your health.

Whether you're looking for a new culinary adventure or simply want to save some money, ethnic cuisine is definitely worth exploring. With so many delicious options to choose from, there's sure to be something to suit everyone's taste buds.

Technology in the kitchen

Technology is rapidly changing the restaurant industry, and the kitchen is no exception. From new cooking appliances to automated inventory systems, restaurants are using technology to improve efficiency and quality. Here are some of the top trends in technology for the kitchen:

1. Smart cooking appliances: Smart ovens, cooktops, and fridges are becoming more common in home kitchens, and restaurants are starting to follow suit. These appliances can be controlled remotely, allowing chefs to focus on other tasks while food cooks itself.

2. Automated inventory systems: Many restaurants are using software to track inventory and place orders automatically. This eliminates the need for manual stock-taking and can help reduce food waste.

3. Temperature-controlled storage: Temperature-controlled storage units are essential for keeping food fresh and safe. By monitoring temperature and humidity levels, these units help ensure that food is stored at optimal conditions.

4. Kitchen display systems: Kitchen display systems (KDS) are becoming increasingly popular in restaurants. A KDS allows chefs to see orders as they come in, ensuring that each dish is cooked correctly and on time.

5. Sous vide cooking: Sous vide is a method of cooking food in a sealed bag at low temperatures for an extended period of time. This results in very tender and flavorful meat, making it a popular choice for restaurants that want to offer high-quality dishes without sacrificing speed or efficiency.

Sustainable dining

There's no doubt that sustainability is one of the hottest topics in the restaurant industry right now. From farm-to-table dining to sustainable seafood, more and more restaurants are making an effort to source their ingredients from sustainable sources.

One of the most popular sustainable dining trends is farm-to-table dining, which is when a restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms. This not only supports local farmers, but it also reduces the carbon footprint of the restaurant.

Another popular sustainable dining trend is sustainable seafood. This is when a restaurant only serves seafood that has been sustainably sourced. This means that the seafood has been caught in a way that doesn't damage the environment or deplete fish stocks.

Finally, many restaurants are beginning to compost their food waste. This is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills, and it can also be used as fertilizer for local farms.

Dining in the dark

When it comes to dining in the dark, the sky is the limit. Restaurants are now offering guests the opportunity to enjoy their meals in complete darkness, with only the help of a waiter or waitress to guide them. This unique experience is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives and enjoy a meal in complete tranquility.

While some may find this trend a bit strange, there are actually many benefits to dining in the dark. For one, it allows you to focus solely on the taste and smell of your food. Without distractions like colors and lights, you’re able to pay more attention to each individual flavor and ingredient in your dish. Additionally, dining in darkness can be quite relaxing and even romantic. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day or week and connect with your date or partner on a deeper level.

If you’re looking for something new and exciting to try out at your next restaurant visit, be sure to ask about dining in the dark options!