Fast Casual Nation

Fast Casual Nation reveals top 2026 restaurant trends

Join Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they sit down with industry expert Suzy Badaracco from Culinary Tides to forecast the biggest restaurant trends for 2026.

January 8, 2026

Join Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they sit down with industry expert Suzy Badaracco from Culinary Tides to forecast the biggest restaurant trends for 2026.

This year-end episode explores how Gen Z is reshaping dining expectations, the AI versus hospitality debate, why comfort food isn't making a comeback despite economic pressures, and the rise of mood-based menus and subscription dining services.

Discover insights on anti-viral marketing, the importance of "vibe" over speed, and why off-premise dining is becoming more experiential than ever.

More From Fast Casual NationMore

---