Get ready to feast your eyes on the latest food and drink trends hitting London in 2024! This year has flown by, and with it came a whirlwind of culinary creations. Some trends have faded like a forgotten dessert, while others have solidified their place on our plates. Let’s dive into the predictions for the year ahead, inspired by what we’ve seen and heard at top London restaurants, and from experts like Resy and OpenTable.
The Booking Blitz
Table reservations are no longer a casual affair! As social media hype amplifies the allure of London’s hottest restaurants, diners are becoming increasingly organized – some might say a little neurotic – about securing a spot. This year, the average booking was placed a whopping 143 hours in advance, a jump from 135 hours in 2022. It seems even the most chaotic group chats can be tamed when a coveted table is at stake!
Feasting on Family Style
Forget those tiny plates – bigger is better! While we all loved the charming simplicity of a few anchovies on toast, the current economic climate demands more value for our money. A surprising 37 per cent of London diners are opting for a £14 snack over a full meal, according to Resy. This might be a sign that we’re not so keen on miniature portions anymore! Instead, family-style dining is making a comeback. Restaurants like Dorian, Bistro Freddie, and Llama Inn are offering generous slabs of meat and fish perfect for sharing with a group. This trend is reminiscent of the beloved Silk Road and Otto’s restaurants that have long embraced this convivial approach.
Sustainable Savory: The Rise of the Unexpected
In 2024, expect to see more “unconventional” ingredients on your plate! Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to London’s chefs, and they’re not afraid to get creative. For years, Douglas McMaster of Silo has been championing the use of invasive species, such as crayfish, squirrels, and Japanese knotweed. Meanwhile, Crayfish Bob has been popping up in Peckham, while Tom Aitkens featured muntjac deer at Muse in 2023. This trend is set to gain even more momentum in 2024, with chefs like Jack Stein and Peter Weeden excited to showcase the deliciousness of these often overlooked ingredients. It’s not just about sustainability; it’s about expanding our culinary horizons!
Beyond British: Embracing Global Flavors
Don’t be surprised if you see fewer “Modern British” restaurants on your radar in 2024! OpenTable data reveals that other cuisines are experiencing a surge in popularity. Vietnamese, Lebanese, and Portuguese restaurants have seen booking increases of 28%, 22%, and 15%, respectively. Ready to try something new? Check out Sông Quê, Yalla Yalla, and Lisboeta for a taste of these exciting global trends.
Fungi Frenzy: Mushrooms Take Center Stage
Our love affair with mushrooms continues to blossom! From hen-of-the-woods to shiitake, these edible wonders are becoming increasingly popular. Their versatile textures and flavors make them fantastic meat substitutes. Restaurants like Roti King and Rosa’s are adding mushrooms to their menus in creative ways, like rendang-style shiitake and pulled shiitake. We’re even seeing more chefs grow their own mushrooms in-house, taking inspiration from Fallow and The Ledbury.
Sipping Smart: Less But Better
Get ready for a more mindful approach to drinking! The Bacardi group has reported that the 2024 trend is “drinking less, but better.” Nearly half of us are choosing non-alcoholic options on certain occasions, while still enjoying full-strength beverages on others. This shift is reflected in the booming nolo market, which Mintel predicts will reach $359M by 2026. Even iconic establishments like The Devonshire are catering to this trend, offering a non-alcoholic Guinness for those seeking the flavor without the hangover.
Agave Aficionados: The Rise of Tequila and Mezcal
Agave spirits are taking the world by storm! You can’t walk down the street without encountering a new bar specializing in tequila or mezcal. Mezcalito Brompton and Ixchel are just a few examples of this exciting new wave. The Bacardi group survey confirms this trend, revealing a 67% increase in bartender interest in tequila and a 63% jump in mezcal over the past year. Salud!
2024 promises to be a year filled with delicious discoveries and innovative culinary creations. From sustainable ingredients and global flavors to mindful drinking and the ever-growing popularity of mushrooms, get ready to explore a world of new taste experiences in the year ahead!
