Chef John Selick
Metz Culinary Management, Inc. (Metz) has released a top seven list of dining trends for 2025 that spotlights a blend of innovation and tradition based on a national assessment of clients, including K-12, universities and colleges, and corporations with dining facilities.
The trends combine global inspirations, health-conscious choices, and cutting-edge technology to enhance the dining experience. “Our chefs, dietitians, and food experts are on the frontlines with our guests and hear what they want in a wide range of dining settings,” said Chef John Selick, Metz’s Director of Culinary. “Guided by their feedback and our analyzation of culinary movements, we seek to develop offerings that resonate with diverse audiences and their evolving tastes, ahead of market demands.”
Here are the seven key culinary trends for 2025:
International Snacking
Small bites with big flavors are on the rise. Look for international snacking options such as what Metz plans to offer in 2025, including:
- Brazilian Pipoca: A cocoa-dusted popcorn with caramel sprinkles
- Wasabi Popcorn: Featuring bold, spicy wasabi powder
Global Seafood Recipes
Seafood dishes reflecting diverse cultural traditions are gaining popularity. Metz is anticipating increased interest in flavorful creations such as:
- Indian Shrimp Dhansak: A dish combining shrimp, lentils, and tomatoes
- Vietnamese Shrimp Summer Rolls: Fresh and vibrant rolls featuring shrimp and vegetables
Street Eats
Food cart-inspired dishes are going to continue to trend big, such as Metz’s:
- Birria-Inspired Street Eats: Tacos and stews with Mexican-style beef or fish
- Greek Bowls: Feta, grains, salad, and tahini or tzatziki for Mediterranean flair
Functional Foods
Dishes packed with nutrients are gaining traction, offering both flavor and health benefits, such as:
- Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds
- Dishes featuring fatty fish, berries and black beans
- Protein-Enhanced Dishes which add protein-rich ingredients like cottage cheese to recipes like macaroni and cheese and chocolate pudding
Mushrooms are Having a Moment
Mushrooms are stealing the spotlight as a nutritious ingredient and a hearty meat substitute. Here are some Metz examples:
- Mushroom Coffee: A unique blend with mushroom extract believed to boost immunity
- Creamy Mushroom Pasta and Risotto
- Portabella Mushroom Burgers
Sustainability
Topflight food management organizations will continue to champion sustainability. For instance, Metz is leaning into upcycling, zero-waste, excess food remediation initiatives, and providing compostable takeout dinnerware for eco-conscious dining.
Technology
Technology continues to power exponential changes for a positive and convenient point-of-sale checkout experience. For Metz in 2025, contactless checkout will remain a focus by using food lockers by Apex Order Pickup Solutions to quickly and securely deliver meals and by using AI to streamline purchases for guests.
Preparing for 2025 in the food service management business will take (1) culinary creativity; (2) extra attention to sustainability; and (3) adopting a higher level of technology to remove the abrasion that diners can experience. That’s the winning formula for 2025.