The Game-Changing Rise of Brunch for Foodservice

7th October 2024

Brunch has emerged as a vibrant social event for hospitality suppliers of all categories, transforming the foodservice landscape and offering exciting opportunities for restaurants and cafes. We know brunch at Kara. And we know no brunch is complete without a delicious bakery offering of some description, which we also know very well. Let’s dive into all things brunch to see what the opportunities are for foodservice suppliers.

A growing appetite

The days of simple bacon and eggs are over. Modern brunch menus reflect global influences and cater to diverse dietary preferences. Restaurants are increasingly offering plant-based options, superfoods, and other health-conscious choices, aligning with the growing demand for nutritious and flavourful meals. The flexibility of brunch allows restaurants to create unique menus, balancing current trends with dishes that will return the biggest profit.

The popularity of brunch has skyrocketed in recent years, fuelled by its appeal as a leisurely and indulgent meal. As a hybrid of breakfast and lunch, brunch offers a relaxed setting for socialising and enjoying a satisfying meal. This trend is particularly present among millennials, who are more likely to dine out for breakfast and brunch than any other age group. Recent data from OpenTable showed that breakfast and brunch bookings were up 65% in two years, demonstrating the UK’s growing hunger for brunch experiences.

Bottomless brunches

One of the key factors driving the popularity of brunch is the introduction of “bottomless brunches.” These enticing offers, which typically include unlimited drinks alongside food, have made brunch an even more attractive option for social gatherings and celebrations. Bottomless brunches have become the new norm in recent years, helping restaurants and cafes attract patrons by offering unlimited drinks to accompany their chosen dishes.

Both standard and bottomless brunches are often designed to be visually appealing, encouraging diners to share their experiences on social media. From deconstructed eggs benedict to elaborate French toast, the visual appeal of brunch offerings is attempting to enhance the overall experience. This visual appeal, or “Instagrammability,” has played a significant role in brunch’s rise to big business in cafes and restaurants, as well as in the wider catering and hospitality industry.

The evolution of brunch

Brunch has evolved into more than just a meal; it’s a social event. Many restaurants are now designing their spaces and menus to foster community and connection among diners. This shift emphasises the importance of creating memorable experiences that go beyond food alone. At 1 Lombard Street, for example, they’ve witnessed the transformation of brunch into a vibrant social event, encouraging social gatherings and shared moments.

As brunch continues to evolve, we can expect to see further adaptations to emerging trends. Sustainability and local sourcing will likely play an increasingly important role, as consumers seek ethical and environmentally friendly dining options. Many brunch spots are already committed to reducing waste and supporting local farmers and producers.

Brunch is here to stay

Brunch has solidified its status as a new dining frontier within the foodservice industry. Its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences, foster social connections, and offer a unique dining experience positions it as a key opportunity for restaurants looking to innovate and thrive. As the trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting and innovative brunch offerings in the years to come, cementing brunch’s place as an essential part of urban lifestyle and culinary culture.

Keen to elevate your brunch offering and lock down this section of the UK market? You’re going to need some delicious bakery offerings and some expert advice to get started – luckily, we do both. Get in touch with us today to step your menu up and stay ahead of the trends.