Plant-based meat alternatives, comfort food, fusion cuisine, brunch, and local and sustainable ingredients are the five food trends making waves in the dining scene in 2021. The demand for meat alternatives is on the rise, while comfort food is making a comeback during the pandemic. Fusion cuisine offers unique dishes that blend different cultures and flavors. Brunch menus have become more diverse, and bottomless brunches are popular among young adults. Additionally, the use of locally sourced and sustainable ingredients is gaining momentum as consumers become more conscious of their food choices and impact on the environment.

5 Exciting Food Trends Hit the Dining Scene in 2021

Plant-Based Meat Alternatives

In 2021, there has been an increasing demand for plant-based meat alternatives which are becoming popular among vegetarians as well as non-vegetarians who are looking to reduce their meat consumption for health or environmental reasons. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are leading the food industry with their plant-based burgers, sausages, and other meat alternatives which not only taste like meat but also have similar texture and nutritional value.

Comfort Food

Comfort food has made a comeback in 2021 with people craving for traditional dishes that remind them of home-cooked meals. Dishes like mac and cheese, meatloaf, fried chicken, and mashed potatoes are becoming popular in restaurants again. The pandemic has led to people seeking comfort in food and restaurants are catering to these needs by serving classic dishes with a modern twist.

Fusion Cuisine

Fusion cuisine is a blend of two or more culinary traditions to create something new and exciting. This trend has been gaining popularity in 2021 where different cultures and flavors are used to create unique dishes. Korean tacos, Thai pizza, and Indian burritos are some examples of fusion cuisine that are being embraced by food enthusiasts worldwide.

Brunch

Brunch has always been a popular meal amongst millennials but in 2021 it has become a tradition for many. Brunch menus are becoming more diverse and creative, with dishes like avocado toast, shakshuka, and crepes being served alongside classic brunch staples like eggs benedict and pancakes. Restaurants are also offering bottomless brunches with unlimited mimosas and bloody marys which are becoming a hit among young adults.

Local and Sustainable Ingredients

The farm-to-table movement has been gaining momentum in recent years as people become more conscious of their food choices and their impact on the environment. In 2021, there has been a shift towards locally sourced and sustainable ingredients with restaurants showcasing the origin of their produce on menus. Consumers are willing to pay extra for ethical and sustainable food choices, and restaurants are responding by partnering with local farmers and producers to provide fresh and seasonally inspired dishes.