With only a couple of months left until the new year, we can now reflect on the majority of the year that has passed. Along with every new year comes a whole lot of new trends and changes throughout the hospitality industry.
We see trends in many forms, whether it is technology, customer experiences, or food and drinks, every year brings something new and exciting to the sector.
Throughout 2021 we saw a multitude of new food trends. Some of the most prominent trends have been around for a couple of years, but only gained more traction and exposure throughout this year. So, what food trends have we seen rise throughout this year?
Plant-based Burgers
Plant-based proteins have really made a statement this year. Originally a novelty item on some fast-food menus, these burgers have now found a place across almost every single burger venue menu.
One of the most prominent changes that brought this trend to light, is the ultra-convincing and delicious alternatives that are now available. Gone are the days of dry vegetable patties being the only option on the menu. Surprisingly this opened the doors for everyone to want to try the alternative, even if they aren’t vegetarians. This trend is expected to stay and continue to rise throughout burger restaurants, with more innovative plant-based options to come.
Yes, plant-based meat is better for the planet https://t.co/77zzoBJ1Sf
— Vox (@voxdotcom) November 18, 2021
Fusion Cuisines
There is so much access to traditional cuisines from around the world throughout Australia. With the country’s prominent multiculturalism, we are fans of every single cuisine that comes across our plates. This year we have seen a rise, not in traditional cuisines, but in fusion cuisines. Cross-cultural cuisines are not a new concept, but the time for restaurants to explore and innovate has led to the acceleration of this trend.
With many options showing up, some of the most out-there are Mexican-Korean, and Chinese-Peruvian, while the most common Mexican-Japanese and Western-Vietnamese have been seen in previous years, we can’t wait to see what this trend will continue to deliver.
Ghost Kitchens
Over the past 12 months, there has also been a rise in venues and restaurants using ghost kitchens. A ghost kitchen, also known as a headless restaurant, are hospitality businesses that don’t employ a front-of-house staff, they also don’t have seating or a storefront; they instead exist solely online on food delivery apps and websites. Often, they don’t have a presence, besides on apps such as Uber Eats and Menu log. Since these sorts of venues don’t have as many overheads as a traditional restaurant, they have the opportunity to make more profit.
