5 Trends Spotted at the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show
The Chaucer Foods team hit the floor at this year’s National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, and let’s just say, the future of food is here and it’s delicious, efficient, and a bit futuristic.
From high-tech kitchen upgrades to global flavors, here are five foodservice trends we think are set to reshape menus and operations.
#1 – Robots in the Kitchen
Automation isn’t just a buzzword anymore, it’s here and it’s a game changer for restaurants, QSRs and commercial kitchens. We saw AI-powered tools that prep, cook, serve, and even clean. You may have seen these robots popping up here and there in some restaurants and hotels, but the future is big, and it’s a lot more automated and intelligent. One highlight? An all in one beverage robot from Richtech Robotics that crafts cocktails, makes barista quality coffee creations, and can even blend bubble teas.
Smart ordering systems and self-service kiosks are also helping reduce labor costs and improve throughput and eliminate user error. For operators looking to boost efficiency and consistency, restaurant automation technology is here to stay.
#2 – Plant-Based Isn’t Going Anywhere
Plant-based in foodservice has been growing at a steady pace with more and more people thinking about their health and the impact on the environment. This trend is here to stay, and will be a staple at any show revolving around food.
We tasted so many interesting products like vegan bacon from MyForest to dairy-free probiotic yogurt from CocoJune, and so many more. These products offer the flavor and texture that today’s consumers expect, while delivering on clean labels and sustainability. Whether you’re a restaurant, café, or contract kitchen, now’s the time to explore plant-based on your menu if you haven’t done so already.
#3 – Sustainability Is Going Mainstream
Sustainability is now a top priority for both operators and consumers. With serious impacts to our environment, we all know that sustainability is the only way forward. From snacks to farming to materials, we as consumers are trying our best to make little changes for an impact.
We saw a huge amount of compostable packaging at the show, with innovation solutions aimed to reduce waste and environmental impact. McCormick Place went all in, with eco-friendly composting systems throughout the venue. Plus, apps like Too Good To Go are making it easy for restaurants to cut food waste and recover profits.
#4 – Global Flavors, Interesting Fusions
For foodservice managers looking to refresh their menu, global is the way to go. Bold, adventurous flavors, especially from Southeast Asia, were included in many of the menu items offered. These inspired items stood out with layered spices, fermented notes, and inventive sauces. From umami flavored beef jerky to chicken shwarma pizza, global fusion ingredients are perfect for that twist on a classic dish. Today’s diners are flavor-forward and ready to explore, and they aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zones when it comes to food.
#5 – Functional Foods (with a side of THC)
Functional foods and beverages are popping up in restaurants and on shelves everywhere, offering both a wellness benefit and a flavor impact. This year’s show featured a “Beverage Room”, where you can find many brands showing off their new THC-infused seltzers. What’s the benefit in that you may ask? We wanted to know too and by asking the question we learned that these infused seltzers allow its consumers to destress without having to inhale smoke. They are more of a socially acceptable way to catch a buzz without the potential hangover the next day.
This year’s National Restaurant Association show proved that the foodservice world is moving fast, from smarter kitchens to global flavor profiles, and wellness driven innovation. At Chaucer Foods, we help foodservice buyers and product developers stay ahead of the curve with on trend and shelf stable ingredients for every application.
Interested in exploring more industry trends or seeking expert insights on innovation? Reach out to our team at customer.services@chaucerfoods.com.
