This year was full of adventurous food and exciting dining experiences. From pickletinis to MSG martinis and everything in between, it was anything but a boring year. It was a year where we had dinner at 1 a.m. and dined in restaurants that felt more like theme parks than traditional pizza places. The influence of TikTok food influencers on restaurant culture was evident, making it a thrilling and vibrant year.
However, amidst all the fun, there were challenges. Inflation made dining out more expensive, and tipping policies were still a matter of debate. Yet, despite these challenges, innovative and exciting new restaurant trends emerged in 2023.
One of the most interesting trends was the rise of overwhelming, maximalist restaurant aesthetics. Places like Lil’ Deb’s Oasis and Shuggie’s created sensory overload experiences, immersing diners in a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. It was a departure from the traditional fine dining setting, and a refreshing change after the difficult times brought on by the pandemic.
Additionally, the rising costs of ingredients, particularly lettuce, affected restaurant menus and prices. But despite the challenges, the restaurant industry showed resilience and creativity, embracing the changing landscape of dining culture.
