Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable ones to date.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since the world was introduced to bacon-flavored doughnuts and since the gluten-free movement urged restaurateurs to add alternatives to their menus. In 2010, we had no idea what a cronut (doughnut + croissant) would do to our lives, and that coconut oil could be used for cooking and as a moisturizer for the skin. The last decade has brought many food trends that many may live on well into the 2020s. Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable ones to date.
Avocado Toast
Avocados have been around for a while, but for some reason it wasn’t until the last decade that the fruit became popular among millennials. The many ways that it can be eaten gives an endless variety. It’s particularly tasty when paired in an omelet or in a sandwich, but consumers have particularly taken a liking to the simple avocado toast recipe. So simple that all it consists of is smashed avocado on your choice of toast, often incorporated with eggs and spices.
Acai Bowls
We probably have the New Jersey-based chain, Playa Bowls to thank for turning us on to the acai bowl craze. What began as a makeshift pop-up stand on the sidewalk, flourished into a 65 store nationwide operation. Topped with granola and fresh fruit, it’s no wonder there is usually a line out the door for this wellness trend.
Meat Alternatives
Speaking of health trends, restaurants have been trying to come up with alternative options for their meaty dishes to cater to those who follow a plant-based diet. These days, more eateries are adding vegetarian and vegan items to their menus and even big food companies like Burger King and Dunkin have been on board. Ever heard of the Impossible Whopper and the Beyond Meat breakfast sandwich?
Instagram-Worthy Desserts
Not only are they delicious, but they are required to be shared with at least ten of your best friends. Presentation was everything this decade and restaurants capitalized on customers’ need to post to social media by creating Instagram-worthy treats. Over-the-top milkshakes and giant sundaes have made their way around the Internet…and in everyone’s stomachs.
Hard Seltzer
Remember when there was a national shortage of White Claw this past summer? People loved the idea of sitting by the beach with a refreshing hard seltzer in hand that the brand could barely keep up with the demand. Since this was the latest food trend, we can imagine seeing a lot more cans of White Claw next year.
Mocktails & Nonalcoholic Beers
Speaking of sitting by the beach with a refreshing drink, restaurants have also been offering more mocktails and nonalcoholic beverages to their menus. Realizing that it’s mainly the need to hold something during social gathering rather than the alcoholic part of the drink that customers enjoy, these have been nice alternatives for Happy Hour.
Food Trucks
One of the most convenient forms of food service was the rebirth of mobile food trucks. Conveniently parked at festivals, parks, and outside businesses and boardwalk, they make grabbing good quality fast food that much easier. With many restaurateurs taking their operations on wheels, let’s hope this trend is here to stay for a while.
We have had quite a decade in the restaurant and food service industry. And we can’t wait to see what the next decade brings!
About the Author: Courtney Ciandella has been the sole Marketing liason for Bielat Santore & Company since 2013. She is also the conductor behind the Who’s Who in the Restaurant Industry and Restaurant Tip of the Month series.
