10 trends taking root in plant-based dining By Sara Perez Webber Whether they’re vegan, vegetarian or simply want to eat less meat, consumers are increasingly embracing plant-based diets. According to a 2023 Gallup survey, 4 percent of Americans are vegetarian and 1 percent are vegan. That doesn’t tell the whole story, however. Younger consumers are far more likely … [Read more...] about Plant-Based Power
Food Trends
Six Catering Trends with a Lasting Impact
The ECEP Mid-Year Trends Report identifies meaningful shifts in hospitality expected to stand the test of time By Liese Gardner In today’s dynamic hospitality landscape, trends come and go like the seasons. However, some developments transcend short-lived fads, shaping the industry’s future in profound ways. Released this June, the ECEP Trends Report identifies pivotal … [Read more...] about Six Catering Trends with a Lasting Impact
Expanding the Borders of BBQ
How international grilling traditions and flavors are catching fire By Sara Perez Webber The smoke-filled air made it hard to see when Luis Leite and Iago Santana launched their Brazilian churrasco business in 2022. The brothers were grilling up a storm at their first gig on Father’s Day weekend at Charter Oak Brewery in Danbury, Connecticut. As the smoke dissipated, … [Read more...] about Expanding the Borders of BBQ
Next-Generation Classics
European cuisines are evolving stateside and growing in popularity, with restaurants adding modern twists to traditional dishes By Sara Perez Webber At the hard-to-get-into pastaRAMEN in Montclair, New Jersey, diners don’t have to decide if their meal will include Italian flavors or Japanese flavors. They’ll get both in such crowd-pleasing dishes as Cacio e Pepe Gyoza … [Read more...] about Next-Generation Classics
Datassential Releases 2024 Food Trends Report
Leading food-and-beverage market research firm Datassential has released findings from its annual trend report, covering predictions for 2024. According to its research, 63% of consumers say they are optimistic about the year ahead. A major food trend identified by the report is “European 2.0.” According to Datassential, a new generation of chefs is rethinking classic … [Read more...] about Datassential Releases 2024 Food Trends Report
Feasts for the Senses
Caterers are revving up their food station creativity, presenting guests with sweet, savory and satisfying options that look as good as they taste By Sara Perez Webber Guests attending catered events these days are likely to find food and drink that’s right up their alley. After all, caterers are coming up with ever-more creative stations where diners can customize … [Read more...] about Feasts for the Senses
The Enduring Allure of Mexican
Restaurants and caterers who specialize in this popular cuisine find success with traditional recipes and quality ingredients By Sara Perez Webber Whether they’re craving quesadillas, longing for elote or pining for pozole, consumers’ appetite for Mexican cuisine shows no signs of abating. According to market research firm CivicScience, a third of U.S. adults name … [Read more...] about The Enduring Allure of Mexican
Foods That Score
The concessions served at live events are winning fans of their own By Sara Perez Webber Game-day food has come a long way from peanuts and Cracker Jack. Today’s concession caterers are pleasing fans of every sport—as well as attendees of other live events—by making sure culinary offerings add to the excitement and are part of the attraction. “A huge part of any … [Read more...] about Foods That Score
Festive Foods
As we head toward the busy end-of-year season, caterers share highlights from their holiday menus ’Tis the season to get those holiday menus ready! If you’re still working on the details, get inspired by the highlights shared by the caterers profiled here. But don’t wait too long—according to CFE’s sources, clients are booking early and are eager to celebrate the … [Read more...] about Festive Foods
Reaping the Harvest
Caterers are cultivating inspired plant-based menus to satisfy the sprouting number of vegans and vegetarians By Sara Perez Webber Adherents of plant-based diets have more fast-food options than ever. Want a meat-free Whopper at Burger King? No problem—have it your way. Looking for dairy-free milk at Starbucks? You can choose from four varieties. Many caterers are also … [Read more...] about Reaping the Harvest
