The lines between restaurant dayparts and dining occasions are officially blurred. As a growing population of snackers change their eating-out behavior, consumers are doing a lot more mix-and-match dining, according to “Starters, Small Plates & Sides Consumer Trend Report,” published by Chicago-based Technomic Inc.
These days, an appetizer can be a snack, and a trio of small plates can make up a meal. For example, foodservice consumers are looking for chances to customize the menu and often use small bites to supplement or replace a meal. All of these factors are pointing to growth opportunities for starters, small plates and sides. Their flexibility and downsized portions appeal more broadly to consumers and can fit a wider variety of dining occasions.