NEWSTALGIA!

Canada's Restaurant Guy, Jay Ashton

In a recent article by Datassentials, they delve into the restaurant industry's landscape of 2024, and I couldn't agree more with their insights. We're not merely witnessing a continuation of the comfort food trend; we're on the cusp of a remarkable shift into what I'd like to call the "Newstalgia" movement.

Hold onto your taste buds because the culinary world is about to embark on a thrilling journey into a new era – the era of "Newstalgia." Forget the worn-out comfort food movement; which is sad but realistic, this is the exciting new wave that's set to redefine the dining experience.

In December, The Restaurant Show will be your guide on this delectable expedition into the past with a fresh twist. "Newstalgia" is all about breathing new life into cherished flavours and dining experiences from days gone by. It's where everything old becomes new again, and it's causing a culinary sensation like never before. Not only comfort food but the whole experience.

Remember when pickles and pulled pork were all the rage over a decade ago? Well, they're back in the limelight, but this time with a gourmet twist that will tantalize your taste buds like never before. Today's pickles are no longer just a side dish; they're a culinary masterpiece.

If you've been pining for the cocktails of the '90s, you're in luck. The classics are making a triumphant comeback, and they're getting a luxurious makeover. Espresso martinis are leading the charge, becoming one of the hottest items on menus. Imagine sipping on an expertly crafted espresso martini in a chic, retro-inspired setting – it's a trip down memory lane with a modern flair.

But the revival doesn't stop at cocktails. Remember the days of "mini desserts"? Well, get ready to be wowed by the resurgence of "mixed dessert" plates, up by a remarkable 37% at midscale restaurants in the past 12 months. These aren't just desserts; they're culinary works of art that will satisfy your sweet tooth while igniting your nostalgia.

What's truly remarkable about "Newstalgia" is that it transcends generations. Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers are all eagerly rediscovering their favourite flavours from the past, while Gen Z is embracing these trends with fresh eyes and open palates. It's a movement that unites diners of all ages in their shared love for culinary nostalgia.

For restaurant owners and brands, "Newstalgia" presents a golden opportunity to reinvent and reimagine. Dust off those cherished recipes, bring back iconic dishes, and create a dining experience that marries the best of the past with the innovations of today. It's a chance to craft menus that tell a story, decor that evokes cherished memories, and marketing campaigns that capture the essence of bygone eras.

In December, join us on The Restaurant Show as we embark on this gourmet journey into "Newstalgia." It's time to bid farewell to the tired comforts of yesteryears and embrace the exciting flavours of the future, steeped in the rich history of our culinary heritage. Get ready to savour the past in a whole new light.

"Newstalgia" and AI might be the combination we're looking for to drive foot traffic in 2024.

Restaurants Canada #foodservice #Restaurants

Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/menu-unplugged/id1713817470

Canada's Restaurant Guy, Jay Ashton

Citation

Datassential Trendspotting, Vol. 119