Health-conscious consumers are reshaping the global coffee industry

By Pragati Pathrotkar Coffee has always carried a paradox: people love it for the ritual, the flavour, and the jolt of energy – but that same jolt is increasingly what’s driving them away from regular brews. Enter decaffeinated coffee, once dismissed as a flavourless compromise, now emerging as one of the more dynamic corners of […]

Fall flavours see summer launches on coffee chain menus

While we celebrate the second half of summer, fall flavours are hitting menus long before the first leaf falls. Even though it’s still hot outside, some QSRs are launching warm, cozy fall menu items early. Here is a rundown on the some of the early fall menu adopters: Starbucks’ ever-popular PSL makes its debut on […]

Coffee programs can increase restaurant revenues

By Jose Chavez For many restaurants, coffee is treated as a simple add-on; it’s poured at breakfast, served after dinner, or offered as a standard beverage alongside the menu. But a well-planned coffee program can do much more than complete a meal – it can increase average order value, encourage repeat visits, create new revenue […]

Summer beverages incorporate fun, adventure, and nostalgia

With the weather heating up and summer long weekends on the horizon, some QSRs are adding items to the menu that focus on beach days, road trips, and all things summer. Guests can beat the heat with seasonal flavours, fun on-the-go options, and some of their favourite throwbacks that offer a trendy summer feel with […]

Trend Watch: Gin infusions, miso caramel, tea applications

By Elizabeth Wessel Chefs and restaurateurs need to stay innovative to set themselves apart from the competition, and adding trendy food items to the menu is one way to attract attention and increase restaurant traffic. This latest edition of Trend Watch focuses on three menu trends that are being seen across Canada right now: quirky gin infusions, […]

2026’s biggest taste trends play into tea’s strengths

By Shabnam Weber The flavour landscape is shifting fast, and the trends shaping 2026 menus are tailor-made for tea. From maximalist taste profiles and botanical complexity to gut-health beverages and nostalgic comfort, the ingredients driving consumer excitement this year are ones that tea has always known how to deliver. For foodservice operators, this is a […]

2026 restaurant menus offer vibrant colours and flavours

Each year brings an original list of consumer cravings, top trends, and emerging flavours, and this year’s menus are popping with vibrant colours, interesting combinations, and strong flavours. 64 per cent of consumers are looking forward to new food and beverage trends in 2026, and operators are delivering with innovative LTOs and seasonal offerings that […]

Top trends in Canadian coffee cravings

Coffee remains the most consumed beverage in Canada. Recent studies reveal that 71 per cent of Canadians report that they drank coffee yesterday, but habits are shifting and restaurant revenues may see the effects as coffee prices continue to rise. “Even in challenging economic times, coffee continues to play an important role in Canadians’ daily […]

Authenticity and intentionality drive 2026 menu trends

Food trends come and go, but what should operators focus on for next year’s menus? What flavours are attracting attention and driving diners to enjoy LTOs, make repeat visits, and post about meals on their social media channels? 2026 appears on the surface to be themed “opposites attract,” with combinations like healthy and indulgent, while […]

The rise of Dry January and sober dining

Dry January is a trend that has gained traction over the last few years as part of a sober-curious movement, often continuing well past the final day in January. Studies show that 49 per cent of consumers are trying to consume less alcohol this year, which is a 44 per cent increase over 2023. Recent […]