Top 2026 Food Trends & Beverage Trends

Guests want more than just food and beverages — they’re seeking experiences worth leaving home for. And they’re excited for the coming year: 64% of consumers are looking forward to new food and beverage trends in 2026.¹ 

Success for foodservice operators in 2026 means understanding what drives consumer choices, anticipating guest expectations, and delivering experiences that feel personal and relevant. The 2026 Top Food & Beverage Industry Trends Report includes expert insights, actionable strategies, and practical takeaways for operators of all kinds.

Download your copy by filling out the short form below.

FAQs

Q: What is the 2026 Top Food & Beverage Industry Trends Report?
A: The report delivers curated statistics, expert insights, and actionable strategies to help industry leaders understand and anticipate the top food and beverage trends for 2026. 

Q: Who should download this report?
A: The 2026 report is ideal for foodservice professionals, manufacturers, marketers, and anyone seeking data-driven insights into the evolving food and beverage industry.

Q: What are some key foodservice trends covered?
A: The report explores changing dining and snacking occasions, personalization, creating moments, building trust, and serving different generations.

Q: How can I access the report?
A: Simply fill out the short form on this page to get your free copy.

2026 INDUSTRY UPDATE

Real growth in 2026 will come from adaptability, understanding consumer’s evolving dining patterns, and meeting them where they’re at.

This table-setting section explores:

• Operators in our shifting foodservice industry.
• Changing consumer food and beverage habits.
• New occasions beyond dayparts.
• The importance of connection.

PERSONALIZATION THAT RESONATES

Personalization is evolving. It’s no longer about offering endless food and beverage options, but anticipating what guests want before they ask.

This customization-centric section explores:

• Simplifying decisions for the consumer.
• LTOs and seasonal specials.
• Refreshers and functional beverages.
• New beverage occasions across channels.
• AI-supported personalization.

TURNING MOMENTS INTO MEMORIES

Food and beverages have always been about more than flavor. They're a way to connect, celebrate, and create moments that last. 

This experiential section explores:

• Global flavors’ continued popularity.
• “Little treat culture” and “swavory” snacks.
• Food- and beverage-centered events.
• Dining and drinking as experiences.
• Blurring dayparts and new opportunities.

SERVICE ACROSS GENERATIONS

Every generation craves connection — they just express it differently. Understanding these differences will help you serve every age better.

This generations-focused section explores:

• How different ages provide feedback.
• Sustainability’s importance across age groups.
• Communicating waste-managing strategies.
• Connecting to each generation through different mediums.
• How people of all ages indulge.

TRUST AT THE TABLE

Trust drives loyalty. Diners are looking for proof (not promises) that the food and beverages they order away from home support their well-being, safety, and values.

This wellness and clarity section explores:

• GLP-1s and portioning.
• Functional foods and beverages.
• Food and beverage safety.
• The value of clear labels.
• The future of dietary accommodations.

THE YEAR OF CONNECTION

Operators who thrive in 2026 are the ones who see connection as a strategy, not a sentiment. They build relationships — not just transactions — by earning trust in small, consistent moments and understanding what guests need before they ask for it. Being a connected operator means staying close to your purpose, your people, and your diners, using technology to strengthen (not replace) human touch, and designing experiences that bring guests together across moments, meals, and generations.

Ready for the latest insights on how to make 2026 the best year yet?

Sources: 1. Datassential, 2026 Trends (Oct 2025)