Restaurant Megatrends 2018: Hit List Dining Changes the Game


Skift Take

Where to eat is important — but suggestions of what to eat are even more influential these days. But chasing after one famous and photogenic dish means you might miss out on all the rest.

[caption id="attachment_212320" align="alignright" width="240"] Download your copy of Skift Megatrends 2018[/caption] We've just released our first annual restaurant industry trends forecast, Skift Megatrends 2018. You can read about each of the trends on Skift Table as well as download a copy of our magazine here. Destination restaurants have existed as long as restaurants have existed, and traveling to experience a certain chef’s work has always been a part of tourism. What’s different is the pace at which restaurant recommendations rocket around the world, fueled by photos, reviews, ratings, and lists determining the best foods to try before you die. At its best, this trend encourages adventurous eating among diners and creativity among chefs — you have to stand out to make a splash. At its worst, it encourages checklist dining as diners potentially ignore a great menu in search of the one popular dish. It’s not just so-called destination restaurants that have experienced