Which Are America's Fastest Growing Restaurant Concepts?

With the rapidly changing food landscape, it can be very difficult to become one of America's fastest growing restaurant concepts. But, someone (or, some type) must hold the mantle.And while it's good to know who's growing, for those of us monitoring trends, it's better to know why. What are the driving flavors? What makes it special? Why now? So, let's dive in and see if we can get some answers.

America's Fastest Growing Restaurant Concepts

Coffee & Tea Cafes

These are by far the fastest growing concepts. Enabling them to do this is their flexibility and constant innovation. From cold brew to nitro, and nitro to CBD all within a matter of months at times.Their adaptability to popular trends, and let's face it, undeterred support from Millennials and Gen Xers, helps to ensure their continued growth.

Hawaiian Concepts

Thanks almost entirely to poke bowls, Hawaiian restaurant concepts have blossomed across the nation. Some estimates predict that over the next 4 years poke will increase in popularity another 47%.That means that this food trend is here to stay. And with a constant push for fresh, healthy food, it's a logical fit.

Brewpubs/Gastropubs/Wine Bars

The increasing popularity in craft beers, local distilleries, smart menu curation, and innovative cocktails have driven these concepts into the forefront. The experimental nature of these establishments makes them fertile ground for unique food menus as well. Patrons know they're headed for a unique experience and these concepts hate to disappoint.

Scandinavian Food

No, really. A love for fermented and foraged foods has created a massive interest in Scandinavian cuisine. When you couple that with the re-launch of Noma, it makes sense that people are interested.Expect to see Swedish, Icelandic, and Finnish restaurants and pop-ups hit your neighborhood soon, if they haven't already.

Out with the Old, In with the New

As in all things, when new ideas rise, others must fall. In this case, the rise of these restaurant concepts has led to the stalling of others, such as: Bars & Grills, British concepts, and Swiss/Fondue concepts.While it's unfortunate, it is the nature of the business. We look forward to following the trends to see what else the people will be clamoring for. Until then...Cheers!