OpenTable Predicts More Personalized and Spontaneous Eating Out Experiences in 2026

OpenTable has released its comprehensive 2026 Dining Trends Report. This report provides an in-depth look at the evolving preferences and behaviors of American diners, forecasting significant trends that will shape the restaurant industry in the coming years.

Key Findings from the Report

The report indicates a notable increase in dining out, with a projected average of 10 restaurant visits per month per American in 2026. This marks an 8% rise from the previous year. The study also highlights a growing inclination towards value and unique dining experiences, with 61% of Americans viewing dining out as a special occasion rather than a routine activity.

Emerging Dining Trends

One of the standout trends is the shift towards more spontaneous dining experiences. The use of OpenTable's "Notify Me" feature, which alerts users to available tables, surged 84% year over year, reflecting a broader desire for flexibility in dining plans. Additionally, the report notes a decline in the popularity of shared plates, with more diners preferring individual dishes; group dining, however, remains popular, with an 11% increase.

The concept of experiential dining is gaining traction, with a 46% increase in such offerings. Restaurants are now offering more unique experiences, such as pop-ups and chef collaborations, which are resonating with diners, particularly millennials, who are expected to be the most frequent diners in 2026.

Technological Advancements in Dining

Technology continues to play a pivotal role in how diners interact with restaurants. OpenTable's new AI-powered 'Concierge' service enhances the dining experience by offering personalized restaurant recommendations and bookings. This feature aligns with the 44% of Americans who plan to use AI more extensively for restaurant discovery in 2026.

Consumer Preferences and Nostalgia

The report also sheds light on consumer preferences for certain foods, with a noticeable increase in mentions of ingredients like matcha, seaweed, and spicy rigatoni in diner reviews. Additionally, there is a strong sense of nostalgia in the culinary choices, with dishes like chicken pot pie and shrimp cocktail expected to make a comeback.

Methodology of the Report

The findings of the 2026 Dining Trends Report are based on data collected from OpenTable's platform, which includes seated diner metrics, types of dining experiences, and an analysis of over 2 million U.S. diner reviews. Consumer research was conducted by WALR, involving a survey of 1,527 U.S. respondents to ensure a comprehensive understanding of current and future dining trends.

Conclusion

As OpenTable continues to analyze dining trends and consumer behavior, it is clear that the restaurant industry is evolving in response to changing diner preferences. From the desire for unique dining experiences to the integration of advanced technology, the dining-out landscape in America is poised to offer more personalized, memorable experiences in 2026.

Read the 2026 Dining Trends Report.