5 Food Trends for 2019

As 2018 draws to a close, the industry is turning its attention to food and restaurant trends on the horizon for 2019. A wide range of publications have released their own lists predicting where consumers and restaurateurs are looking to source their food to unique ways it will be served. Below is a list of the top five trends we see emerging in our market this year.

1. Plant Based Dining – Though this trend was on the rise last year, it has continued on full steam ahead! In particular, we see a surge in proteins that truly mimic the look and feel of meat. Just this year, products like the Beyond Burger and Impossible Burger have taken off both in retail and restaurants. Consumers will be looking for more than just burgers this year, searching for items like plant based pulled pork and chicken that taste like the real thing. There’s even been progress on items like vegan seafood.
2. Eating In – This trend could prove troublesome for the restaurant industry, but it’s certainly one that needs to be monitored. In an age of Netflix and home meal kits, people are eating at home more than ever. As a result, it’s important to keep up with take-out menus and making it as easy as possible to place to-go orders. Evaluate your delivery service and be sure to advertise all of your available options. Be the go-to choice for an evening in!
3. Functional Foods – Products like Kombucha saw a boom in sales this year as consumers search for food with functions. It’s not just athletes and health nuts who are wondering if their food does more than just satisfy a sweet tooth. Expect a rise in demand for products such as food and drinks with probiotic benefits, items containing CDB and even a heavier focus on fermentation in the kitchen.
4. Protein Pastas – Though “carbs” isn’t quite the dirty word it has been over the past few years, many are still looking for a more protein packed pasta option. For health conscience pasta lovers, alternatives like bean, chickpeas and lentils can be used to make healthier options. Expect to have more consumers requesting a wider variety of options.
5. Coffee & Tea Cocktails – Coffee and tea are no longer just the after-dinner beverage. Both have made significant leaps in the past year, but their biggest leap is over to the bar. Expect to see both coffee and tea being used in cocktails more frequently in 2019. In the case of coffee, cold brew and nitro are being used to craft signature drinks. Many bartenders are also incorporating freshly brewed teas, taking advantage of the wide variety of flavors available