B y now, it should be obvious that delivery and carryout are absolutely booming within the foodservice industry. Recent studies have revealed that over six in ten Americans order takeout at least once per week while growth of delivery as a whole has outpaced that of dine-in service by over 300 percent in the past five years. But establishments across the nation aren’t even close to declaring an end to the traditional dine-in experience and are taking steps to lure diners from their living rooms back into the dining room. So how will this renaissance be achieved? Five rising concepts could provide a clue. A thematic schematic Today’s consumer preferences are much more robust than in the past, especially among Millennials and Generation Z. A study by CMS revealed that 53 percent of Millennial respondents cited “a new experience” as the most important factor when selecting a restaurant to dine in, followed by “unique food” at 52 percent. In addition, nearly four in ten respondents said they would pay more for such an experience. The market has responded with thematic makeovers that include everything from pop culture to a retro “Americana” feel and even spy-themed restaurants with menu items mirroring real life and fictional secret agents and missions as well as memorabilia. Playing along While not exactly a brand new concept, the “eat and play” dynamic has undergone a metamorphosis of sorts. It’s true that well-known chains like Dave and Buster’s, which feature
pool tables and a full arcade adjacent to their dining area, have been around for decades. But operators have gone a step further by introducing the “play” element to coincide directly with the dining experience itself. Establishments across the nation, both large and small alike, are introducing gaming right at the table with everything from trivia contests to bowling, miniature golf and even foosball tables that double as dining tables. The goal isn’t all that dissimilar to a traditional casino hotel – the longer consumers stay engaged, the more likely they’ll stick around and spend more money. Keep on truckin’ Food trucks are in a unique league of their own as they’re not necessarily designed to offer the type of “sit down” dining one would find in a traditional restaurant. But nonetheless, they are a close relative of dining in because of the fun and social atmosphere they promote while offering a wide variety of unique menu items that range from cultural fusion to sweet treats that cater to diners on the go, all without delivery. Not only that, they provide the added benefits of mobility and visibility as well as an outdoor dining experience. Speaking of outdoor dining… Remember the term “al fresco?” Dining outdoors has long been a part of the foodservice culture but has recently been increasing in popularity, especially in areas with natural scenic beauty such as near beaches, mountains, forests and urban rooftops. Along with the incredible view and feeling of environmental connection, establishments are pursuing al fresco options as a way to maximize or increase the amount
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