The National Restaurant Association, in partnership with the American Culinary Federation (ACF) and Technomic, conducted the 17th annual What’s Hot survey targeted to thought leaders in the culinary field. More than 500 professionals from the ACF and chefs associated with Association programs weighed in on what they see as the leading menu trends for the coming year.

While most trends align with culinary expertise, some buck the data side of consumers. We continue to see a shift in consumer sentiment around service and quality with a new focus on better value. With current market conditions, we are also tracking a small shift in upselling in the fast-casual sector to go head to head with casual dining.

We also get to sit down with Mr. Brews Tap house and explore a new sector of lower entry point casual dining operations. With 16 locations around the U.S. and counting. Each of our locations serves more than 50 varieties of craft beers from the surrounding area and a full menu of gourmet burgers featuring Hereford beef.

The one element that sets them apart also aligns with one of the top trends for 2023 - Localization. The brand’s local spirit doesn’t start and end with the beers they have on tap but goes for all of our touchpoints, from individual location websites to social media pages. Franchisees are also supported to be and act locally, which is a big differentiation from some of the big box casual chains.