2023 Restaurant Industry Trends

It is difficult to predict with certainty what the biggest trends will be in the restaurant industry in the US in 2023, as many factors can influence the direction of the industry. However, some trends that are expected to continue or emerge in the coming years include:

1. Continued growth of delivery and takeout: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in delivery and takeout services, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. Many restaurants are investing in technology and infrastructure to support these services, and customers are becoming more accustomed to ordering food online or through apps.
   
2. Increased focus on health and wellness: There is likely to be a continued emphasis on health and wellness in the restaurant industry, with more restaurants offering healthier menu options and using ingredients that are sustainably grown and produced.
   
3. Greater use of technology: Technology is expected to play an increasingly important role in the restaurant industry, with more restaurants using technology to streamline operations, improve customer service, and enhance the overall dining experience. This may include the use of mobile ordering, contactless payment, and even automated cooking oil management systems.
   
4. Expansion of plant-based menu options: Plant-based menu options are expected to become more widely available in restaurants, as more consumers choose to incorporate more vegetables and other plant-based foods into their diets. This trend is likely to be driven by concerns about health, the environment, and animal welfare.
   
5. Growing interest in ethnic cuisine: There is likely to be a continued interest in ethnic cuisine, as more consumers seek out new and diverse flavors. This may include an expansion of menu options featuring ingredients and techniques from different regions and cultures.
   
6. Rise of ghost kitchens: Ghost kitchens, also known as virtual kitchens or dark kitchens, are expected to become more popular in the coming years. These are kitchens that are used solely for the preparation of food for delivery or takeout, and do not have a physical storefront. Ghost kitchens can be a cost-effective way for restaurants to enter new markets or expand their reach without the need for a traditional brick-and-mortar location.
   
7. Increased focus on environmental impact: Patrons are paying more and more attention to the environmental impact of their choices. Additionally, regulations are focusing on how used cooking oil can be processed into biofuels and play a role in providing a domestic, and potentially cleaner, alternative to fossil fuels. If your restaurant will be in the greater New Orleans area, give Rebirth a call at (985) 250-0054 to talk about how we can help you recycle your restuarant’s used cooking oil.

In conclusion, the restaurant industry in the US is expected to continue evolving in the coming years, with trends such as the growth of delivery and takeout, increased focus on health and wellness, greater use of technology, expansion of plant-based menu options, growing interest in ethnic cuisine, and the rise of ghost kitchens. These trends are likely to shape the industry and influence the way that restaurants do business in the coming years.