New York based consulting company Baum+Whiteman has revealed most popular dining trends of 2014. Here is the list of their annual predictions.
Restaurants in retail stores may become the biggest dining trend of next year. While in many countries they are essential, in America many large department stores have simply no place to eat. Soon this situation may change. Tasting-only menus may also get more fans next year. When it comes to describing certain ingredients, chicken dishes are no more considered “humble”. We may see this bird in many expensive restaurants and “haute” cuisine. Anchovies are another popular ingredient. In 2014, you may find them in Nicoise salads, with pasta or mozzarella, and even in Caesar salads.
Food courts become less popular, and soon they may be replaced with food halls that will offer better and fresher (and pricier) food. Main beverage trends depend much on main players on the market. With Starbucks serving more tea, it is safe to say that this drink will draw much attention. Moreover, people to tend to order tea rather than coffee with food. Sodas will be mostly offered with various fruit syrups and infusions. Pressed juices may be offered in more hotels and restaurants, and vermouth will be chosen as a key ingredient by more bartenders. Sour beer is also expected to be popular in 2014. Aged in wood, this beer has unusual fragrance and taste.
Describing the main colour of food in 2014, Baum+Whiteman are sure this will be green. For consumers green means healthy, and natural food is not anymore a niche market, but more of a mainstream. The next trend comes out of this one weekend markets. They are the place where people can buy not only fresh products, but also ready to eat food such as waffles, dumplings, Mexi-sandwiches, etc.