As many restaurateurs and brands pivot their business models to cater to what is safe, cost-effective, and legal in the constantly changing “new normal,” it is important not to forget the consumer and how their tastes have changed. Forced lockdowns spent stuck in the rut of the same routines have left consumers craving new flavors and food experiences more than ever before.

Market research firm Datassential recently updated their menu trends database to reveal how consumer habits and preferences have changed since the pandemic began. One thing stands out – in a locked-down world, consumers want to experience the world via their taste buds. An analysis of hundreds of thousands of restaurant menus reveals the most popular flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods from around the world that consumers are craving right now, and here are the top eight:

1. Poke: This raw fish dish is a staple of Native Hawaiian cuisine. While many are familiar with it in the form of a poke bowl, it is exceptionally versatile and customizable, as it can be incorporated into an appetizer, main dish and more.

2. Elote: Like poke, this Mexican dish is highly craveable and versatile. This grilled corn-and-cream-based snack has origins as a street food, but it can be added to menus in a variety of formats and even has a place on fine dining menus.

3. Nashville Hot: This regional flavor checks off many boxes for consumers. Nashville hot sauce has spice levels that tingle, as well as a deep red color that adds visual flair to any dish. It is also the perfect pairing for comfort foods like fried chicken that many are seeking during stressful times.

4. Matcha: What’s not to love about this East Asian ingredient? Matcha, a powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has functional antioxidant properties, umami flavors, and adds a rich green color to beverages, cakes, candies and ice creams.

5. Shakshuka: Tomato sauce, peppers, and a myriad of aromatic spices play starring roles in this poached egg dish. As breakfast foods are finding their way onto the all-day menu at many restaurants, shakshuka stands out to consumers for its unique Middle Eastern flavors.

6. Tajin: Chili, lime and salt are the triumvirate of taste in this spice blend. While Tajin is added to many foods in Mexico, American consumers are learning it is just as savory on the rim of a margarita glass as it is on fresh fruit.

7. Harissa: This flavorful chili paste is riding the popularity wave that many other Middle Eastern foods have created and is showing strong initial growth in menus. Including dishes flavored with harissa is a great way to get ahead of the trend as we don’t expect its momentum to slow any time soon.

8. Cacio e Pepe: Simple yet indulgent, this cheesy pasta dish from Italy is gaining popularity due to its status as both familiar and foreign. It is the perfect entree for picky eaters who still want to dabble in global cuisine.

Now is the perfect moment for restaurateurs to invest in menu innovation. Consumers are aware of the strain that the pandemic has placed upon neighborhood eateries and community businesses and are looking for ways to support them. By taking customers on an adventure in the form of global-inspired dishes, you can turn those challenges into an unexpected win for all.

WCG is constantly researching and strategizing the best ways to utilize food trend research for our clients. Whether you are looking for a quick refresh, or a comprehensive brand strategy, we can be your missing ingredient. Please contact us at hello@wilksgrp.com.