Our Predictions for the Hottest Restaurant Trends in 2024

As the restaurant industry in the UK continues to evolve, so do the trends that shape it. From the battle for table bookings to the resurgence of dark kitchens, the F&B landscape is constantly changing. Here are OpSpot’s predictions for the year ahead.

The fierce fight for table bookings

Gone are the days of strolling into a restaurant and hoping for a table. According to Resy, in 2023, UK diners booked tables an average of 143 hours in advance – that's almost 6 days! This is a significant increase from the previous year, where tables were typically booked 10 hours later. This trend reflects a shift towards greater planning and prioritizing restaurant experiences, suggesting that diners are seeking more intentional and memorable dining occasions. So if you haven’t booked your Friday date night on Monday, good luck.

Dining on a dime (or £25)

While fine dining experiences may have their appeal, it seems that affordable casual dining is reigning supreme in the UK. OpenTable reports that restaurants with an average spend of £25 per head are still the most popular among diners. This comes as no surprise, as many people are looking for a more relaxed and casual dining experience without breaking the bank. This trend has led to an increase in the number of gastropubs, street food markets and trendy cafes that offer quality food at affordable prices.

Table for one please

Eating alone is on the rise in the UK, with Resy reporting a 25% increase in solo diners at London restaurants last year. However, not all restaurants are created equal when it comes to catering to tables of one. Rolling into 2024 we’re hoping to see more communal dining spaces and solo-friendly menus, making it easier and more enjoyable for solo diners to dine out.

Bakeries are back

Bakeries and bake shops are making a comeback in the UK dining scene. Buns From Home, a homegrown bakery brand, has seen a surge in popularity, opening four new locations in 2023 and expanding its online presence. This resurgence of bakeries reflects a yearning for simple pleasures, artisanal quality, and the warmth of fresh-baked goods. Cinnamon bun anyone?

Invisible restaurants are here to stay

Ever since the pandemic, virtual kitchens have been the talk of the town. Whilst some see them going into hiding, we’re confident ghost kitchens are here to stay. Karma Kitchens, a leading virtual kitchen provider in the UK (and home to some of OpSpot’s restaurant partners) saw a tripling of its locations last year and have plans to open new delivery-only kitchens over the next 12 months. With the growing popularity of food delivery services, dark kitchens are becoming an attractive option for restaurants looking to expand their reach and reduce overhead costs.

From Sit-Down to Stand-Up

Casual dining brand Prezzo has recently made a bold move into the world of quick-service restaurants and takeaway. The chain, which previously had over 300 locations, has downsized to 96 and will now be opening Italian takeaway outlets in train stations. The menu will feature pasta to-go and pizza by the slice. This move is a response to the growing demand for quick and convenient meal options, especially for busy commuters. It will be interesting to see how this trend continues to evolve and if other casual dining brands will follow suit.

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