Food Trends
Deeper explainers and lasting notes on dishes, ingredients, and menu ideas that stick. For the broader daily mix—including events and culture—start with What's Hot.
Trend stories
Longer trend reads land here as we publish them. Check What's Hot for current notes.
On the radar
Quick notes on flavors and ideas in motion. Each card links to a DrinkKnird story when we have one, or to a credible source.
cocktail
Low- and No-Alcohol Tea-Based Beverages and Afternoon Teatime
2026-10-09
Tea-based alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are rising, with afternoon teatime gaining popularity as a new form of social drinking, especially among Gen Z.
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ingredient
Fiber-Forward Foods and Drinks
2026-10-10
Fiber is becoming a key focus in food and beverage innovation, with products emphasizing gut health and satiety, including fiber-rich pastas, baked goods, and prebiotic sodas…
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cocktail
Savory and Umami Cocktails with Fermentation and MSG
2026-10-14
Cocktail trends in 2026 emphasize savory, umami-rich flavors with increased use of fermentation techniques and ingredients like MSG, fermented citrus, and cheese infusions…
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desserts
Tangy and Multi-Texture Desserts
2026-10-20
Desserts in 2026 emphasize tangy flavors like citrus and berries combined with multi-texture experiences, offering smaller portions and elevated sensory indulgence globally.
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restaurants
Emerging International Restaurant Chains in the US
United States · 2026-10-20
International restaurant brands, especially from East Asia, are rapidly expanding in the US, bringing digital-first operations and experiential dining formats like hot pot and…
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desserts
Dessert Innovation Embraces Multisensory Indulgence and Wellness
2026-10-21
Desserts and ice creams are evolving to combine indulgence with nutritional benefits, personalization, and bold visual appeal, with plant-based and protein-rich options gaining…
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cocktail
Cocktail Trends: Transparency, Local Sourcing, and Maximalist Presentation
2026-10-21
Cocktail culture is evolving with a focus on ingredient provenance, local flavors, immersive experiences, and bold, theatrical presentations across global bar scenes.
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cocktail
Savory Cocktails Enter Mainstream
2026-10-22
Savory and umami-forward cocktails, incorporating culinary techniques like fermentation and fat-washing, are surging globally, with bars embracing local ingredients and…
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desserts
Miniature and Tangy Desserts Rise Globally
2026-10-22
Smaller portion desserts with tangy, citrus-forward flavors and complex textures are gaining popularity worldwide, driven by health-conscious consumers and social media appeal.
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For the calendar, see food & drink events.