The National Restaurant Association (NRA) identified its leading trends defining consumer desires in 2026, finding nostalgia, comfort and “flavor escapism” at the top of the list, according to its 2026 What’s Hot Culinary Forecast report.

“From smash burgers and Caribbean curry bowls to protein-packed meals and low-alcohol drinks, this year's report shows that diners are craving fusions of past trends and modern flavors. Familiar favorites are being reimagined with global influences while wellness and affordability remain top of mind for consumers,” the association said in a press release.

"Comfort and value are the twin pillars shaping America's menus right now," said Dr. Chad Moutray, chief economist for the National Restaurant Association. "Consumers are seeking meals that deliver joy and familiarity without breaking the bank and operators are meeting that ask with creative takes on comfort classics and sourcing local ingredients that make healthy choices easy."

According to the report, a continued clear winner is protein, which it said is a trend that “highlights how health and wellness are reshaping how consumers engage with food today.” Consumers are also shifting toward less alcohol, the report said. It noted that the low- to no-alcohol trend is especially true for Gen Z and Millennials “who often expect alternatives, like alcohol-free beers and CBD-infused beverages.”

The NRA’s predicted top 10 menu trends for 2026 are:

1. Local sourcing: Restaurants are deepening community ties by featuring ingredients from nearby farms and producers, emphasizing freshness and sustainability.
2. Comfort foods: Familiar classics like soups, stews and burgers offer diners a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection.
3. Value menus and options: Operators are balancing creativity and cost by delivering satisfying meals that remain affordable for price-conscious diners.
4. Smash burgers: Blending retro appeal with customizable, high-flavor twists; this diner staple has reemerged as a social-media favorite.
5. Clear menu labeling, icons and cues: Simple visual indicators help diners make quick, informed choices about ingredients, calories and sustainability.
6. Allergen-friendly menus: Restaurants are expanding inclusive options for guests with dietary restrictions, from gluten-free items to nut- and dairy-free dishes.
7. Global comfort foods: Chefs are reinterpreting homestyle dishes from around the world, blending authenticity with local influence.
8. "Cleaner" recipes with fewer additives and dyes: Consumers are prioritizing ingredient transparency, inspiring operators to include simpler, less-processed options.
9. Proteins as add-ons: From smoothie bowls to pancakes, protein is becoming a customizable boost for both taste and nutrition.
10. Compostable and reusable packaging: Eco-friendly materials are replacing single-use plastics as restaurants reduce waste and improve sustainability.

Look out for more on flavor trends for 2026 in the upcoming December issue of NACS Magazine.