Alto-Shaam
5 Menu Innovation Trends to Watch in 2025
Alto-Shaam analyzed key insights and consumer trends backed by culinary expertise to uncover what menu management might look like in 2025, and how Alto-Shaam’s commercial equipment and technology can support your business.
To identify the key trends that operators should be considerate of in 2025, we analyzed key insights and consumer trends as well as drawing on the expertise of our own culinary specialists to uncover what menu management might look like in 2025 as emerging culinary shifts gain mainstream traction.
From hot honey condiments to caraflex cabbage, the top five trends set to shape menu innovation in 2025 are:
- Promoting limited time offers (LTOs)
Cultivating global connections
Elevated dining and upscaling ingredients
Stealth wellness options
Innovative condiment and spice offerings
Learn more about these upcoming trends and discover how Alto-Shaam’s commercial equipment and technology can support your business in adapting to these changes. Let's dive in!
Empower your menu with ChefLinc™
Setting the Scene: Industry Trends
The foodservice industry experienced a challenging year in 2024, with reduced traffic triggered by high inflation – but the industry is set to make a moderate recovery in 2025. Lowering inflation and increased promotional deals are predicted to encourage an increase in diners, bringing with it a renewed optimism across the industry.
According to foodservice insights leader Technomic, 2025 is predicted to see a growth of 1.9%, demonstrated across almost all segments.
The Limited-Service segment, including fast casual, is projected to perform better in the long term compared to other segments. While this segment may no longer be the default choice for lower-income consumers due to aggressive price increases, improvements should be seen in 2025, with increased price discounting, deals, and promotions.
Full-Service Restaurants (FSRs) are predicted to end 2024 with in decline due to high menu prices and closures of underperforming units. However, moving forward, both chains and independents are predicted to see growth, though at a moderate pace.
As inflation slows in grocery stores, more consumers will see supermarket foodservice as a worthwhile option. Convenience stores are also expected to enhance their foodservice offerings, potentially becoming the go-to value option as quick-service restaurant (QSR) pricing continues to rise.
Upcoming Dining Menu Trends
Dining out has evolved as consumers increasingly seek convenience and variety in their meals. According to Escoffier, a growing share of food budgets is being spent on dining out, rising from 53.37% in 2019 to 55.70% in 2023—a trend that continues to gain momentum.
Staying ahead of menu trends like limited time offers or using unique ingredient combinations ensures your restaurant remains relevant, attracts curious diners, and keeps customers returning by offering innovative dishes that align with evolving consumer preferences.
Promoting Limited Time Offers (LTOs)
Limited time offers (LTOs) are short-term, exclusive menu items or promotions designed to spark excitement and urgency among diners. By offering seasonal dishes, bold flavors, or creative new concepts, restaurants not only entice customers to visit but also create a buzz around their menu.
Inflation has resulted in higher menu prices in recent years which have been influential in the decline in traffic across foodservice providers. In 2025 we predict an increase in operators emphasizing value in LTOs to drive sales, offering affordable dining options for diners.
Technomic reports that 52% of consumers consider the availability of limited time offers important when choosing a restaurant, a 4% increase from 2021. Statista’s 2022-2023 report also shows that 54% of U.S. diners said promotional deals are the top factor that would encourage them to eat out more often. This trend reflects a growing mindfulness in consumer spending habits.
With 50% of operators introducing at least one limited time offer (LTO) in the past year, the trend is expected to continue and is strongly recommended for 2025 menus. LTOs provide an ideal way to test new ideas, drive sales, and keep diners coming back for more, making them a powerful tool in staying competitive and fresh in an ever-evolving market. 
Benefits of adding limited time offers to your menu
Creates urgency. Encourages immediate visits by instilling FOMO, driving foot traffic and sales.
Can attract new customers. Unique or seasonal dishes can draw first-time diners, expanding your customer base.
Can boost social media engagement. Generates buzz and encourages sharing, enhancing online visibility and attracting more patrons.
Allows menu experimentation. Offers a low-risk way to test new dishes, enabling you to gauge customer preferences before making permanent changes.
LTO tips from our culinary experts
Matt Dugan, a Corporate Executive Chef at Alto-Shaam and previously a Corporate Executive Chef at Vitamix Corporation, shares the importance to maintaining your brand’s identity even in temporary menu options.
"When crafting a successful LTO menu, focus on seasonality and current food trends to create excitement.
Keep your offerings aligned with your brand identity, but don't be afraid to push boundaries slightly. A great LTO not only drives short-term sales but can also enhance your brand's reputation for innovation and quality.
They should drive crave-ability and often times can become staple menu items over time." 
Kevin Bernier, Director of Product Management at Alto-Shaam, suggests trying Alto-Shaam’s cloud-based remote oven management system, ChefLinc™ to seamlessly push and pull seasonal recipes.
“For limited time offers or seasonal menus, ChefLinc gives operators a great opportunity to drive traffic and revenue streams with little effort. Alto-Shaam has a global recipe library on ChefLinc, so you can easily access the most common recipes and modify the cook settings to personalize it to your menu.” .jpg)
Cultivating Global Connections Through Dining Experiences
Consumers are calling for an eating experience that emphasizes traditional, genuine, and culturally rooted cuisine. Authentic dining features dishes prepared with traditional ingredients, cooking methods, and recipes that reflect a culture’s essence. The aim is to provide a genuine experience, preserving food heritage with minimal modern adaptations. Fueled by food tourism, this trend thrives on TikTok and Instagram, displaying global culinary adventures.
The 2024 Culinary Tourism Market Report revealed that the global culinary tourism market hit $946.4 billion in 2023 and is expected to soar to $3,515.1 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 15.7% from 2023 to 2032. Social media has been a major driver of this rapid growth. The report highlights a rising demand for authentic cuisine, supported by social media insights. It reveals a growing popularity of authentic Asian dishes beyond traditional communities, along with a surge in demand for genuine Italian flavors, prepared just as they are in Italy.
Brandwatch data reveals a surge in culinary interest, with 361,000 U.S. searches on social platforms for "Thailand + Food" content between June-August 2024, reflecting a growing fascination with Thai cuisine. Similarly, "Italy + Food" garnered 131,000 searches on social platforms between June-August 2024, highlighting the continued appeal of authentic Italian flavors. 
Benefits of adding authentic dishes to your menu
A chance for cultural expression. Authentic dishes allow restaurants to highlight diverse cultures, offering customers a unique culinary experience that fosters understanding and appreciation of different traditions.
Offering healthier options. Many culturally rich cuisines emphasize fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition, promoting healthier eating habits and providing alternatives to processed foods.
Increased customer engagement. Unique, authentic offerings can attract food enthusiasts and encourage repeat visits, as customers seek to explore new flavors and experiences.
Enhanced reputation. Offering authentic dishes can improve your restaurant's reputation as a culturally diverse establishment, appealing to a broader audience and enhancing brand loyalty.
Expert tips for creating an authentic menu
Chef Sandy Hierro, a seasoned Corporate Executive Sous Chef is known for seamlessly integrating his Dominican cultural heritage into his culinary creations, enriching each dish with Spanish influences. Chef Sandy Hierro suggests:
"To create a truly authentic and culturally rich menu, start by embracing your roots and personal experiences. Don't be afraid to incorporate traditional flavors and techniques from your heritage, but also be open to fusion and innovation.
Research the history behind each dish and understand its cultural significance. Source authentic ingredients whenever possible, and if not available, find creative substitutes that maintain the essence of the dish.
Remember, authenticity isn't just about replication; it's about capturing the spirit of a cuisine and presenting it in a way that resonates with your diners."
Our culinary support specialists also recommend educating staff on dish origins —chefs, servers, and hosts—so they can share their knowledge with customers, sparking excitement and encouraging social media promotion of their dining experiences.
Additionally, you can preserve authentic flavors with our Cook & Hold ovens, powered by Halo Heat® technology. Unlike traditional methods, Halo Heat delivers steady, gentle radiant heat, avoiding harsh temperatures to ensure your dishes retain their full flavor and quality.
Upscaling Ingredients
While menu prices have been an issue for diners in recent years due to inflation, operators can provide upscale foodservice experiences at a reduced cost with LTOs and specialty items. Yelp data states that compared to the pre-pandemic period of April 2019 through March 2020, interest in higher-priced restaurants ($$$ and $$$$) increased by nearly 10% and 17%, respectively. Year over year, consumer interest in fine dining rose an additional 2% for both pricing tiers, while interest in affordable restaurants ($) decreased by 16% since pre-pandemic times.
This growth in interest is driving more people to seek out premium foodservice options. Additionally, the growing awareness of high-quality ingredients also sparks the elevated dining trend. 
Benefits of creating an elevated menu
Drives higher tickets. As consumers shift towards spending more on premium experiences, elevated menu items can attract those willing to pay for high-quality ingredients and unique dining experiences, enhancing overall revenue.
Can enhance your brand image. Offering a luxury menu elevates a restaurant's status and can position it as a leader. This exclusivity can attract discerning customers who value quality and craftsmanship in their meals.
Market differentiation. In a competitive landscape, an enhanced menu can set you apart. By focusing on unique offerings, such as specialty sauces or rare ingredients, establishments can create a niche that appeals to food enthusiasts and trendsetters.
Use our expert advice to elevate your menu
Gerard Strong an Alto-Shaam Corporate Chef has worked in some of the country’s best restaurants in New York City, Seattle and Denver and has honed his skills over the years in high end cuisine. Chef Gerard comments:
"When crafting a menu, remember that every detail matters. Start by sourcing the highest quality, seasonal ingredients from local producers. This not only ensures freshness but also tells a story about your restaurant's connection to the community.
Next, focus on innovative flavor combinations that surprise and delight the palate. Don't be afraid to blend classic techniques with modern twists – this balance of tradition and innovation is key to an elevated dining experience.
Presentation is crucial; each plate should be a work of art that engages all the senses. Finally, consider the flow of the menu as a whole.
Create a journey for your guests, building anticipation with each course. Remember, creating culinary moments are more than just the food – it's about creating unforgettable memories.”
Our experts also suggest that you can further elevate your menu with Alto-Shaam’s multi-cook ovens, featuring Structured Air® Technology. This advanced system delivers faster, more even cooking with precise temperature control, ensuring ingredient quality and consistency for refined dining experiences.
Stealth Wellness Options with Superfoods and Premium Ingredients
There is a rise in health awareness across with consumers demanding higher quality ingredients, especially among those ready to invest in premium products. McKinsey & Company reports that approximately 50% of U.S. consumers consider wellness a top priority in their daily lives in 2022, up from 42% in 2020.
Gen Z leads the charge, seeking healthier, more sustainable options than previous generations, with a growing interest in alcohol-free beverages as part of their lifestyle choices, as demonstrated by the release of non-alcoholic beer – BERO, launched by Tom Holland in October 2024. According to Statista, the percentage of respondents who reported cutting out alcohol or drinks increased from 31% in fall 2022 to 43% by spring 2023.
Our culinary experts forecast a rise in blended meat and alcohol-free menu options in the coming year. Functional plants such as burdock, angelica, and osha root are also expected to become more common, bringing a fresh, creative edge to dishes. Vegetables will take center stage as meat alternatives, with caraflex cabbage, lion's mane, maitake, oyster mushrooms, and avocado significantly impacting a significant impact on plates.
Benefits of adding healthier options to your menu
Stealth health innovation. Subtly integrating healthier components (e.g., vegetable-enriched sauces, ancient grains) improves nutritional value without compromising taste, satisfying both health-seekers and flavor enthusiasts.
Expanded market appeal. Attracts health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions, broadening your customer base and potential revenue streams.
High value rewards. Nutrient-rich, high-quality ingredients justify higher price points, enhancing profit margins while meeting demand for healthier choices.
Specialist advice for a health-oriented menu
Chef Kristina Bladecki who has worked in the healthcare foodservice industry prior and has a culinary management degree says:
"A well-designed stealth health menu should balance nutrition, flavor innovation, and visual appeal.
In foodservice kitchens, we’re seeing chefs explore with vegetarian and vegan options and expanding with alcohol-free beverages to cater to health-conscious customers.
We’re also seeing schools and other non-commercial operators elevating vegetable flavors while also meeting nutritional guidelines and needs.”
Innovative Condiment and Spice Offerings
In recent years, Americans have developed a strong appetite for bold and intricate sauces and spices. Classic condiments have been reimagined or combined, giving rise to exciting flavors like honey miso and fermented hot sauce. Additionally, spice blends inspired by popular dishes—such as pizza spice and pho spice—are expected to satisfy consumer cravings for vibrant flavors with a creative edge in 2025.
Our research also suggests that condiments and spices will significantly shape 2025 menus, with favorites like Gochujang, Hot Honey, and Honey Sriracha appealing to those seeking a delightful blend of sweetness and heat.
The 2024 NCSolutions consumer sentiment survey reveals that more than half (51%) of Americans use hot sauce multiple times a week, and three in four are open to trying "swicy" foods and drinks—those that blend sweet and spicy flavors. This trend reflects a growing preference for customization, indulgence, and comfort among U.S. consumers. 
Benefits of using innovative condiment and spice in your menu
Enhanced flavor profiles. Ingredients like Gochujang, Hot Honey, and Honey Sriracha add unique sweet, spicy, and umami notes, transforming dishes into memorable experiences.
Culinary exploration. These sauces introduce diners to global flavors in a familiar context, boosting satisfaction and encouraging adventurous eating.
Increased menu appeal. Signature sauces differentiate your menu from competitors, attracting customers seeking unique dining options.
Use creative spices and sauces like our experts
Equipped with extensive culinary experience and accolades, Chef Matt Dugan suggests adding innovative spices and sauces gradually across your menu.
"When incorporating innovative spices and sauces, start by using these bold flavors sparingly and build up to find the perfect intensity.
Culinary mashups provide us with some of our favorite and unique dishes. Fermented and ‘swicy’ hot sauces can adds depth beyond just heat; use it to finish soups or to marinate a protein of your choosing.
With pizza spice, think beyond pizza - it can elevate roasted potatoes or be mixed into breadcrumbs for a flavorful coating.
Remember, these innovative ingredients should enhance, not overpower, your dish. Sometimes it’s more about the condiments to allow the consumer to build their own experience versus mandating what they need to have on a dish.
Experiment with different applications and don't be afraid to combine them with more traditional flavors for a unique twist."
What is influencing these trends?
Catering is a vibrant industry shaped by numerous factors, including technological advancements, broader economic shifts, and evolving consumer behavior's. Social media enthusiasts sharing #Foodie photos for their followers also play a key role in shaping these menu trends.
Furthermore, the growing focus on cooking in popular culture, driven by hit shows like The Bear that highlight the thrill of food preparation, is shaping the future of the culinary landscape.
In 2025, catering and hospitality decision-makers should tap into trends like authentic dining paired with unique condiments and spices. Additionally, providing discounted meals can bolster their content strategies and help uphold a favorable brand image.
Get Your Kitchen 'Trend Ready' with Alto-Shaam
Shifting consumer behaviors and evolving customer attraction strategies are influencing kitchen requirements, necessitating businesses to adapt swiftly.
With 91% of operators seeking support from supplier partners for menu innovation, ChefLinc offers the solution. Enhance your menu and business with data-driven insights from this cloud-based remote oven and cooking management system.
With its intuitive dashboard, operators can easily manage recipes, monitor oven status, and collect data on which recipes succeed, allowing for experimentation with 2025 menu trends.