Food and Drink Trends for 2024: What to Expect

By Mackenzie Filson

Delish.com

Fancy Faux Fish

Introducing Seed to Surf’s plant-based tinned “snow crab” and “whitefish” made from enoki mushrooms and celery root. This eco-conscious alternative combines the popularity of mushrooms and the indulgence of tinned fish.

Galaxy Quest

Torani Puremade Galaxy Syrup is set to be the flavor of the year, satisfying the space-travel dreams of those unable to make it to the stars. Created to mimic the taste of outer space, it offers a unique blend of raspberries and dark rum.

Vinyl Bars Are Back

Vinyl bars are making a comeback, allowing consumers to enjoy a bar-hopping experience in non-traditional spaces. Bars like Le Fantastique in San Francisco and Gold Line Bar in LA are leading the trend.

Creste di Gallo Pasta

Say goodbye to traditional pasta shapes like elbows and bucatini, as 2024 brings a new star: Creste di Gallo. This Italian noodle, resembling the ruffled crest of a rooster, is known for its ability to hold sauce and is reminiscent of the popular cascatelli shape.

New Age Grocery Stores

Grocery stores are taking a futuristic turn, with Pop Up Grocer leading the way. These unique shopping experiences cater to the consumer’s desire for high-quality, foraged wild foods.

Pizza Vending Machines

Pizzaforno and DiGiorno are just a taste of what’s to come with the rise of pizza vending machines. These automated delights offer a quick and convenient way to satisfy your pizza cravings.

Garleek

Get ready for the rise of garleek, a cross between garlic and leeks. With responsible seed breeding, this hot vegetable is expected to become mainstream as consumers embrace hybrid food options.

Walk-In Reservations

Restaurants are bringing back the charm of spontaneity with the return of walk-in reservations. Leave room for those last-minute dining decisions and enjoy the whimsical nature of trying new dishes.

Sleepy Drinks

Nighttime beverages designed to promote better sleep hygiene are gaining popularity. From powdered supplements like Apothekary’s “Chill the F* Out” to canned sleep drinks like Som, these drinks are focused on helping you achieve quality rest.

Tamarind

Tamarind is set to be the flavor of choice in 2024, according to spice maker McCormick. Known for its sweetness and tang, tamarind adds a unique twist to marinades, BBQ sauces, and classic drinks like agua de tamarindo.

Elderflower Everywhere

Elderflower dominated the bar scene in 2023 with the St. Germain spritz. Now, it’s expanding its reach with more elderflower elements appearing in various drinks, offering a refreshing and floral alternative.

Tsukemen (Chilled Ramen)

Embrace the best of both worlds with tsukemen, a chilled ramen dish that combines a cold noodle base with spicy heat. With various toppings and proteins, this summertime delight offers a unique and satisfying dining experience.

Carbon Negativity

Combatting climate change takes center stage with the rise of carbon-negative products like Air Company’s vodka. With each bottle removing one pound of carbon dioxide from the air, these sustainable options allow consumers to make a positive impact while enjoying their favorite drinks.

More (Way More) Mushrooms

As the demand for alternative meats diminishes, mushrooms are taking center stage. Brands like Meati are leveraging the savory-meaty capabilities of mushrooms to create products such as mushroom-based jerky, cutlets, and steaks.

Tomato Cocktails

Expand your horizons beyond Bloody Marys and Micheladas with a variety of tomato-based cocktails. The Caprese Martini and the Tomatini are just a few examples of unique and Instagram-worthy drinks gaining popularity.

Carajillos

Move over, espresso martini. 2024 is the year of the Carajillo, a simplified coffee-based cocktail made with espresso or coffee and Licor 43. This beloved drink is even making its way into unexpected products, such as Carajillo-flavored cereal.

Sparkly Syrups

Social media’s influence extends to food and drinks, with TikTok-friendly dishes and drinks taking the spotlight. The addition of edible glitter and sparkles, like Runamok’s Sparkle Syrup, adds a touch of magic and excitement to cocktails and pancakes.

Seacuterie Boards

Combining the popularity of tinned fish and charcuterie boards, seacuterie boards are the newest snacking craze. Expect to see unique offerings like shellfish sausages, octopus salami, and swordfish ham.

What’s Out in 2024? Here’s Our Wishlist

QR code menus

Cottage cheese

Serving pasta straight from a wheel of parm

Not tipping at least 20% at restaurants

“Functional” beverages that are mostly snake oil

The “Girl —” trend naming convention (except “Girl Math,” which rules)