The days are getting longer, the sun is (sometimes) peeking through, and consumer taste buds are ready for something fresh and exciting. To help you stay ahead of the curve, we’ve delved into Mintel’s latest report on UK Spring/Summer Menu Trends for 2024.
We see from the report that consumers are consistently craving more adventurous foodservice offerings through varied international tastes and flavours. We’ll explore the six sizzling trends that are set to tantalise customers’ palates and ensure you are staying ahead of the curve.
Reimagining the British Classics
Brits love their classics – fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and comforting pub fare are never going to fall out of favour. But this summer, these familiar favourites are getting a modern makeover. Diners are looking for healthier versions that showcase the best of regional British produce. Examples of these would include lighter sauces, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative twists that elevate these beloved dishes.
A Spicy West African Adventure
Get ready for a taste explosion! West African flavours are rising like the summer sun, with suya spice blends leading the charge. These bold, flavourful mixes promise a taste bud adventure for diners seeking something new and exciting. This trend is perfect for adding a vibrant kick to grilled meats, and vegetables, or even incorporating them into creative cocktails.
Southeast Asian Fusion Twist
The love affair with Southeast Asian cuisine continues, but with a twist! Consumers are craving modern interpretations of their favourite dishes. This opens a door for exciting fusion creations, blending classic Thai, Vietnamese, or Malaysian flavours with unexpected ingredients. By presenting unexpected flavours in familiar formats, restaurants are not only reimagining a beloved cuisine for a new generation of adventurous eaters, but they are also lowering the barrier to entry for risk-averse diners. Innovative chefs can experiment with new textures, spices, and cooking techniques to create truly unique and mouthwatering experiences.
Korean Street Food Craze
Social media is a major influencer in the food world, and Korean street food is having its moment. Korean cuisine is riding the wave, with 20% of recent or potential foodservice consumers influenced by trending dishes. Younger consumers, especially, are captivated by the vibrant colours, bold flavours, and fun formats of Korean street food. From sizzling Korean BBQ to trendy dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), these options promise an interactive and visually appealing dining experience.
Sustainably Eco-Eats
Today’s diners, particularly younger generations, are placing a premium on eco-friendly choices. Restaurants can cater to this by offering “eco-eats” that prioritise sustainability. This could involve using locally sourced ingredients, reducing food waste, or offering plant-based options that minimise environmental impact. Highlighting these efforts on your menu showcases your commitment to a greener future, attracting environmentally conscious customers. Also offering takeaway containers made from sustainable materials (eg compostable, recyclable) is a quick win to show your commitment to sustainability.
Diverse Dietary Needs
Inclusivity is key in today’s foodservice landscape. There’s a growing demand for menu items that cater to religious dietary needs like halal. Offering halal options or exploring exciting vegetarian and vegan dishes that cater to kosher requirements demonstrates your commitment to diversity and opens your doors to a wider customer base. By getting creative with faith-based snacking options, this will not only enable foodservice operators and food manufacturers to showcase their commitment to inclusivity but also spur food and menu innovation.
The Takeaway for Your Business
Understanding these trends empowers you to create a menu that’s both delicious and relevant. Whether it’s reimagining classic British dishes with a modern twist or offering exciting new options that cater to adventurous palates, staying ahead of the curve is key to attracting customers and keeping your business thriving.
At Kara Foodservice, we offer a diverse range of high-quality bakery products that can help you create delicious and innovative dishes that cater to all these trends. Our diverse range of high-quality bakery products caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, helping you create delicious and memorable culinary experiences. Contact us today to learn more about how we can partner with you to bring the taste of spring and summer to your menu!
