As we bid farewell to 2025, the food industry is ripe for reflection on which trends should take their leave and which ones deserve a revival. Despite ongoing inflation and tightening budgets impacting the hospitality sector, there remains a glimmer of hope for 2026, with fresh trends poised to emerge or make a comeback. As culinary fads often resurface, we also have a few light-hearted wishes for what we would like to see change in our dining experiences.
Out! Caviar Bumps
First on the chopping block is the infamous caviar bump. Fish roe simply cannot be consumed in the manner suggested, as it is not a powder. The trend reached its peak when Pizza Hut introduced caviar-topped pizzas, signaling that it’s time to retire this 2022 fad that has lingered into 2025.
Do not attempt this at home. Or anywhere else.
In! Dining Alone
In contrast, we advocate for the resurgence of solo dining. With fewer people gathering for happy hours and socializing beyond social media, enjoying a meal on your own can be a liberating experience. It allows for personal reflection and the chance to engage with others at the bar. Striking up a conversation with a bartender or fellow patrons can foster connections that remind us of our shared humanity. As the late Anthony Bourdain aptly put it, “Open your mind, get up off the couch, move.”
In! Hotel Bars
Building on our desire for solo dining, hotel bars serve as perfect venues for this trend. Typically populated by travelers on business or leisure trips, these establishments encourage conversation. Notable spots like Bowie House and Hotel Drover thrive during the week, while The Nobleman’s bar offers an intimate atmosphere. Meanwhile, Hotel Dryce presents a trendy, laid-back vibe reminiscent of Austin’s nightlife.
In! AYCE Sushi
Let’s not overlook the rising popularity of AYCE (All-You-Can-Eat) sushi, which has gained traction in the past year and shows no signs of waning. While not entirely new—restaurants like Ninja Sushi and Japan House have long embraced this model—new entrants such as Sushi Soho in Bedford and Crowley’s Ocean Buffet are making their mark. Who doesn’t appreciate the opportunity to indulge in endless sushi for a fixed price? For those who prefer variety, Pancho’s on Jacksboro invites diners to raise a flag for service.
In! Be Ready to Order
As a plea for courtesy, we urge diners to have their orders ready by the time they reach the cashier. After navigating a long line and capturing numerous selfies, it’s only respectful to know what you want to order. Let’s make 2026 the year of preparedness and leave the indecision behind.
Out! Small Plates
The trend of small plates has overstayed its welcome. Shareable dishes have crowded menus, and many items have lost their novelty. Brussels sprouts, once a rarity, have become ubiquitous. It’s time to move on from the small-plate phenomenon that has dominated dining experiences.
Out! Truffle Fries
Let’s take a moment to say goodbye to truffle fries. While they may seem like a sophisticated twist on a classic, they often fall short of their lofty aspirations. At the end of the day, they are still just fries, and perhaps it’s time to bring back crinkle-cut fries without the truffle embellishment.
Out! Jungle Walls
While jungle-themed decor once provided a whimsical escape, it has now become cliché. Not every bar or restaurant needs to evoke a tropical paradise, especially when adorned with neon slogans amidst faux greenery, which have become staples for those regrettable Instagram moments. What was once novel has grown tiresome.
In! Monkey Bread
Celebrating a return to childhood nostalgia, we declare 2026 the Year of the Monkey Bread. These delightful baked balls, drenched in butter, cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes icing, blur the lines between breakfast and dessert. Enjoying them involves tearing apart gooey pieces, making it a fun experience reminiscent of simpler times.
In! Dirty Martinis
Lastly, let’s revive the classic three-martini lunch. There’s something undeniably appealing about an ice-cold gin or vodka martini garnished with bleu cheese-stuffed olives that can elevate the day. Unfortunately, the espresso martini does not qualify, and it may soon find its relevance waning.
