Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) represents a profound shift in the culinary world. Their values and priorities are setting new standards for how restaurants operate and what offerings are in demand. From plant-based diets to social responsibility and the integration of digital tools – restaurant trends for 2025 reflect the needs of this young generation. The Nutrition Report 2024* provides valuable insights into how consumer behavior will continue to evolve in the coming years.
Sustainability as a Cornerstone of Success
For Generation Z, sustainability is no longer just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a necessity. According to the Nutrition Report 2024, 94% of German consumers pay attention to sustainably produced food. This heightened awareness of environmental issues also shapes expectations for the restaurant industry. Young consumers want to know where their food comes from, how it is produced, and whether environmental standards are met.
A particular focus is on reducing plastic. Fifty-seven percent of consumers want less plastic packaging, and this desire is especially pronounced among younger consumers. The use of eco-friendly packaging is becoming a key restaurant trend for 2025. Restaurants that use sustainable packaging or eliminate plastic entirely can earn the trust and loyalty of Generation Z. A great example of this is Berlin’s “FREA,” which uses completely plastic-free packaging, making it a pioneer in the Zero Waste movement.
Local Sourcing and Organic Products: More Than Just a Trend
The origin of food is also crucial for young consumers. Eighty-two percent of Germans prefer locally grown food. This figure underscores that local sourcing not only offers environmental benefits but also strengthens consumer trust. Local products represent freshness and quality, and the short transport distances reduce CO₂ emissions.
A restaurant that successfully implements this approach is “Nobelhart & Schmutzig” in Berlin, which works exclusively with regional producers. Guests appreciate the transparency and focus on local ingredients, which create a close connection to the region. This bond between guests and producers not only fosters trust but also provides a unique culinary experience.
In addition, the demand for organic products continues to grow. Sixty-one percent of Germans place great importance on animal welfare and consciously choose meat and dairy products from humane farming practices. For restaurant trends in 2025, this means offering more organic meat and sustainably produced animal products to meet guest expectations.
Plant-Based Diets: From a Niche Offering to a Top Restaurant Trend in 2025
The demand for plant-based diets has skyrocketed in recent years, and this trend will only continue to grow through 2025. Thirteen percent of Germans already follow a vegetarian or vegan diet—a movement largely driven by Generation Z. This dietary choice is not only appealing for ethical reasons but is also associated with a more conscious and healthier lifestyle. It is one of the restaurant trends for 2025 that is expected to last long and fundamentally shape our eating habits.
A pioneer in vegan cuisine is “PLANTA” in Toronto, which offers creative plant-based dishes that are both healthy and environmentally friendly. Such concepts are no longer an exception but are becoming increasingly common on menus around the world. Superfoods like quinoa, chia seeds, and spirulina are also gaining popularity, as they are considered highly nutritious and have become staples in plant-based diets.
Animal Welfare and Conscious Meat Consumption
While plant-based diets are becoming more significant, meat remains an essential part of many people’s diets. However, consumers are increasingly concerned about the origin and conditions under which meat is produced. According to the Nutrition Report 2024, 61% of Germans place great importance on humane animal farming. Restaurants that offer organic or free-range meat are aligning with the spirit of the times and are ahead in the restaurant trends for 2025.
Technology and Transparency: Digital Innovations Shaping the Guest Experience
High5 offers a variety of features to help you encourage genuine reviews while boosting customer satisfaction:
Review Analysis: High5 analyzes your existing guest reviews to identify patterns and trends. This enables you to make targeted improvements to your service and better understand your guests’ needs.
Feedback Management: The software allows you to respond quickly to customer feedback. You can address negative experiences immediately and offer solutions, which strengthens customer trust and builds your reputation.
Real-Time Insights: High5 provides real-time insights into customer satisfaction, keeping you informed and enabling you to proactively address issues before they lead to negative reviews.
Chat Assistant: Use the High5 chat assistant to solve issues efficiently and effectively with the help of artificial intelligence. This tool helps you respond quickly to inquiries and improve the customer experience.
Audience Analysis: Take a closer look at your target audience! High5 gives you the ability to analyze characteristics like gender, country of origin, or family status to create tailored offers.
Forecasting: Gain insights into specific trends for the upcoming season. High5 helps you understand where your tourists will be coming from and their spending power, so you are well-prepared to meet your guests’ needs.
Authenticity and Community as Key Success Factors
Beyond sustainability and technology, Generation Z places great importance on authenticity. They are drawn to restaurants that present themselves honestly and tell a clear story. Authenticity is more crucial than ever, as young consumers seek genuine, unfiltered experiences in an increasingly digital and globalized world.
To foster this authenticity, stories about the origin of ingredients or the history of the restaurant can be shared. Storytelling becomes the key to captivating guests and gaining their loyalty. Learn more in our article: Want More Guests in Your Restaurant? Storytelling: Leverage This Trend for Your Success
Generation Z as the Driving Force Behind Restaurant Trends in 2025
Generation Z has high expectations for the restaurant industry. Sustainability, reduced packaging, transparency, local sourcing, and digital innovations are essential values that every restaurant must meet to achieve long-term success. Restaurants that embrace these trends not only strengthen their image but also create a sustainable business model that aligns with the values of this young generation. The future of gastronomy will be shaped by responsibility, technology, and a strong sense of community—all factors that Generation Z demands and actively helps to shape.
