The dining scene of 2023 is not just about serving high-quality food—it’s a melting pot of innovation, resilience, and evolving consumer preferences. To fully understand the depth and breadth of this dynamic sector, numbers often speak louder than words.
Dive into these 100 illuminating statistics to get a taste of the trends, triumphs, and trials shaping the restaurant landscape in 2023. Whether you’re a restaurateur, a food enthusiast, or an industry expert, these figures will serve a feast of knowledge.
What Trends are Relevant in the Restaurant Industry?
Restaurant owners can use trends and statistics to plan and prepare for budget, staffing and training, and technology. For example, if a restaurant is planning restaurant expansion into off-premise dining, it will need to forecast sales and expenses, hire more delivery drivers, and invest in a new online ordering system.
This section will provide a comprehensive overview of the restaurant industry in 2023, including trends, statistics, and data on employment, customers, and sales. It will also discuss how restaurant owners can use trends and statistics to make informed decisions about their businesses.
Specifically, this section will cover topics related to:
- Restaurant Economy Trends
- Employment Trends
- Customer Trends
- Restaurant Tech Trends
- Restaurant Owner Statistics
Additionally, we will cover how restaurant owners can use these trends and statistics to plan and prepare for budget, staffing and training, and technology. By understanding the business and food trends and statistics in the restaurant industry, restaurant owners can be better prepared for the future and increase their chances of success.
Restaurant Industry Economic Trends
The restaurant and hospitality industry is a major contributor to the US economy, employing over 15 million people and generating over $900 billion in sales in 2022. However, the industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many restaurants forced to close permanently and others struggling to stay afloat.
Despite the challenges, the food service industry is rebounding in 2023. The National Restaurant Association projects that restaurant sales statistics will be somewhere around $997 billion by the end of 2023, an increase of 10% from 2022. This growth will be driven by a number of factors, including:
- The return of in-person dining: This is a major boost for the industry, as in-person dining accounts for the majority of restaurant sales.
- The continued growth of off-premise dining: While the number of people who eat on site is rebounding, restaurants report that off-premise dining remains popular. Food delivery statistics show that many consumers are still more comfortable ordering food online or through delivery apps than they are dining in at restaurants.
- The rise of fast-casual restaurants: Fast-casual restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience than traditional fast food chain restaurants, but they are still more affordable than fine-dining, full service restaurants. Fast-casual restaurants are expected to be the fastest-growing segment of the restaurant industry in 2023.
The following are some key restaurant economy statistics for 2023:
- The US restaurant industry is expected to generate $997 billion in sales in 2023, an increase of 10% from 2022. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The restaurant industry employs over 15 million people in the United States, making it the second-largest private sector employer. (Source: Wikipedia)
- The restaurant industry accounts for approximately 10% of the total US workforce. (Source: Medium)
- The average restaurant serves approximately 100 customers per day. (Source: Liberty Cheesesteaks)
- In 2022, off-premise dining accounted for over 40% of all restaurant sales. (Source: Mad Mobile)
- Fast-casual restaurants are expected to be the fastest-growing segment of the restaurant industry in 2023. (Source: QSR Magazine)
- The Restaurant Performance Index (RPI) sits at 101.6 as of May 2019. Anything over 100 is considered a time of growth for restaurants. (Source: Restaurant.org)
- The cost of food and other ingredients is expected to rise by 5% in 2023, which will put pressure on restaurant margins. (Source: Restaurant Drive)
- Labor costs are also expected to rise in 2023, as restaurants compete to attract and retain workers. (Source: NRN)
- Restaurant menu prices are expected to increase by 6% in 2023, to offset rising costs. (Source: Forbes)
- Despite the challenges, the restaurant industry is expected to continue to grow in 2023. (Source: LinkedIn)
- Online ordering and delivery sales are expected to reach $86 billion in 2023, up from $41 billion in 2022. (Source: Future Marketing Insights)
- Restaurant tech spending is expected to reach $15 billion in 2023, up from $12 billion in 2022. (Source: Upmetrics)
- $799 billion was the total number of restaurant industry sales in 2021 (2022 State of the Restaurant Industry, National Restaurant Association)
- 24% profit increase could result from regular, accurate inventory and restaurant management (Your Go-To Guide for Restaurant Inventory Management, 7shifts)
These statistics have a number of implications for the restaurant industry. First, the rebound in restaurant sales is a positive sign for the industry and the economy as a whole. Second, the continued growth of off-premise dining means that restaurants need to invest in restaurant technology and infrastructure to support this trend.
Third, the rise of fast-casual restaurants means that restaurants need to focus on offering a high-quality dining experience at an affordable price.
Overall, the restaurant economy has significantly rebounded in 2023. However, restaurants will need to adapt to the changing needs of consumers in order to be successful.
Restaurant Industry Employment Trends
Currently, the restaurant industry is facing a labor shortage in the US, with many restaurants struggling to find and retain qualified staff. This is due to a number of factors, including:
- An aging workforce: The average age of restaurant workers is increasing, and many workers are retiring.
- Competition from other industries: Other industries are offering higher wages and benefits, making it more difficult for restaurants to attract and retain workers.
The labor shortage is having a significant impact on the restaurant industry. Many restaurants are operating with reduced hours or limited menus. Some restaurants have even been forced to close temporarily or permanently.
The National Restaurant Association projects that the restaurant industry will add 500,000 jobs in 2023, bringing total employment to 15.5 million. However, this is still below pre-pandemic levels.
Restaurants are taking a number of steps to address the labor shortage, including:
- Raising Wages and Benefits: Restaurants are offering higher wages and benefits in an effort to attract and retain staff. The average hourly wage for restaurant workers increased by 6% in 2022, and is expected to continue to increase in 2023. (Source: Daily Progress)
- Using Restaurant Automation: More restaurants are using automation to help ease the labor shortage. For example, some restaurants are using self-service kiosks and robots to deliver food to customers. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Partnering With Schools: Some restaurants are partnering with local schools to train and recruit workers. For example, the National Restaurant Association’s ProStart program is a two-year high school culinary arts program that prepares students for careers in the restaurant industry. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
Despite the challenges, the restaurant industry remains a major employer in the United States. Restaurants are working hard to address the labor shortage, and they are expected to add jobs in 2023. Here are some recent reports on the shape of the food service industry in terms of employment trends:
- The US restaurant industry is expected to employ over 15.5 million people in 2023, making it the second-largest private sector employer. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The restaurant industry accounts for approximately 10% of the total US workforce. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- The average restaurant employs approximately 100 people. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The median hourly wage for restaurant workers is $11.54. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- The restaurant industry is facing a labor shortage, with many restaurants struggling to find and retain qualified staff. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 64% of restaurant operators say that they are understaffed. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The labor shortage is impacting restaurants of all sizes and types, but it is particularly challenging for small businesses. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The labor shortage is also leading to higher prices for consumers. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Restaurants are taking a number of steps to address the labor shortage, including raising wages and benefits, offering training and development programs, and partnering with schools. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Despite the challenges, the restaurant industry is expected to add 500,000 jobs in 2023. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The fastest-growing jobs in the restaurant industry are expected to be cooks, food preparation workers, and cashiers. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Gen Z workers are the most likely generation to work in the restaurant industry. (Source: Restaurant Dive)
- Hispanic workers are also a growing share of the restaurant industry workforce. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Restaurant workers are more likely to be female than male. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Restaurant workers are also more likely to be young than workers in other industries. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- The restaurant industry has a high turnover rate, with many workers leaving their jobs within a year. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Restaurants are investing in training and development programs to help retain workers. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Restaurants are also offering more flexible work schedules and other benefits to attract and retain workers. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The restaurant industry is expected to add jobs at a faster rate than the overall economy in 2023. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- The restaurant industry is expected to create more jobs for high school graduates and workers with no college degree than any other industry in 2023. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
Restaurant Industry Statistics on Customer Trends
Customer trends in the restaurant industry are constantly changing, and restaurants need to adapt to these changes in order to be successful. In 2023, some of the top restaurant industry trends to keep an eye out on include:
- The Continued Growth of Off-Premise Dining:Off-premise dining, which includes takeout and delivery, has been growing in popularity in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. In 2022, off-premise dining accounted for over 40% of all restaurant sales, and this number is expected to grow to over 50% by 2025. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The Increasing Demand for Healthier and More Sustainable Dining Options: Consumers are becoming more and more interested in eating healthier and more sustainable foods. Restaurants are responding to this trend by offering more plant-based dishes, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Restaurants are also using more sustainable ingredients and practices. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The Growing Popularity of Fast-Casual Restaurants: Fast-casual restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience than traditional fast food restaurants, but they are still more affordable than fine-dining restaurants. Fast-casual restaurants are expected to be the fastest-growing segment of the restaurant industry in 2023. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- The Increasing Importance of Personalization: Consumers expect restaurants to understand and cater to their individual needs. This means offering personalized menus, recommendations, and loyalty programs. Restaurants are using technology to collect data about their customers and use this data to personalize the dining experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
These customer food trends are having a significant impact on the restaurant industry. Restaurants are investing in technology to support off-premise dining and personalization. They are also expanding their menus to include more healthy and sustainable options.
Here are some additional data reports on customer trends in the restaurant industry in 2023:
- 38% of on-premises and 33% of off-premises customers say their restaurant choices will be influenced by whether the menus include the comfort foods they crave. (Source: Hospitality Tech)
- 38% of on-premises customers say healthy choices would impact their restaurant choice.(Source: Hospitality Tech)
- 35% of off-premises customers—with millennials leading the category at 53%—are more likely to choose a restaurant if it offers the option of including alcoholic beverages with the to-go order. (Source: Hospitality Tech)
- 63% of consumers say that they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers personalized recommendations. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 70% of consumers say that they are more likely to visit a restaurant that has a positive online reputation. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Millennials are the largest restaurant spending demographic, accounting for over 30% of all restaurant sales. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Gen Z is the fastest-growing restaurant spending demographic, with their spending expected to increase by 25% in 2023. (Source: Technomic)
- Hispanic consumers are also a growing force in the restaurant industry, with their spending expected to reach $271 billion in 2023. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are increasingly looking for healthy and sustainable food options. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 61% of consumers say that they are more likely to eat healthy at a restaurant than they were two years ago. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also looking for more transparency from restaurants. They want to know where their food comes from, how it is prepared, and what is in it. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are increasingly using technology to interact with restaurants. They use online ordering platforms, delivery apps, and social media to find restaurants, read reviews, and place orders. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also looking for more personalized experiences. They want restaurants to know their preferences and offer them tailored recommendations. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are willing to pay more for a great dining experience. According to a recent survey by Technomic, 60% of consumers say that they are willing to pay more for a restaurant meal that is “worth it.” (Source: Technomic)
- Consumers are also more likely to return to a restaurant if they have a positive experience. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 73% of consumers say that they are likely to return to a restaurant if they have a positive experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also more likely to recommend a restaurant to others if they have a positive experience. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 86% of consumers say that they are likely to recommend a restaurant to others if they have a positive experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also more likely to leave a positive review of a restaurant online if they have a positive experience. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 72% of consumers say that they are likely to leave a positive review of a restaurant online if they have a positive experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also more likely to follow a restaurant on social media if they have a positive experience. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 63% of consumers say that they are likely to follow a restaurant on social media if they have a positive experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also more likely to share photos and videos of their food from a restaurant on social media if they have a positive experience. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 56% of consumers say that they are likely to share photos and videos of their food from a restaurant on social media if they have a positive experience. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Consumers are also more likely to trust recommendations from friends and family than they are to trust reviews from strangers. (Source: BrightLocal)
- Consumers are also more likely to do research on a restaurant online before visiting it in person. (Source: BrightLocal)
Restaurant Tech Trends
Technology is transforming the restaurant industry in many ways. Standalone restaurants are using technology to improve operational and delivery efficiency, streamline the customer experience, and reach new customers.
Here are some of the top restaurant tech trends in 2023:
- Online ordering and delivery: Delivery and online food ordering system options have increased online ordering popularity in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. According to the National Restaurant Association, 64% of consumers say that they are more likely to order food for takeout or delivery from restaurants that offer contactless ordering and payment.
- Point-of-sale (POS) systems: What is a POS system in a restaurant? It’s an essential tool that helps restaurants manage their orders, payments, and inventory. In 2023, restaurants are expected to invest in cloud-based POS systems that offer features such as online ordering integration, customer relationship management (CRM), and restaurant analytics.
- Self-service kiosks: Self-service kiosks are becoming increasingly popular in restaurants, as they allow customers to place and pay for their orders without having to interact with a cashier. This can help to reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction.
- Customer relationship management (CRM) software: Restaurant CRM software helps restaurants to track customer interactions, preferences, and purchase history. This information can be used to personalize the customer experience and increase customer loyalty.
- Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is being used in a variety of ways in the restaurant industry, such as to automate tasks, personalize the customer experience, and improve operational efficiency. For example, some restaurants are using AI-powered chatbots to answer customer questions and take orders.
- Mobile Apps: Restaurants are taking their businesses to new heights with the help of mobile pay apps and a customizable mobile app for restaurants.
These restaurant tech trends are having a significant impact on the industry. Restaurants are using technology to improve operational efficiency, streamline the customer experience, and reach new customers.
Here are some additional data reports on restaurant tech trends in 2023:
- 55% of restaurants say that they plan to invest in new technology in 2023. (Source: Restaurant Technology News)
- 64% of delivery customers prefer to order directly from the restaurant and 18% prefer to order through a third-party service. (Source: Hospitality Tech)
- 56% of consumers say that they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers a loyalty program. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 63% of consumers say that they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers personalized recommendations. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 70% of consumers say that they are more likely to visit a restaurant that has a positive online reputation. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- Restaurants are expected to spend $15 billion on technology in 2023, up from $12 billion in 2022. (Source: Technomic)
- Online ordering and delivery sales are expected to reach $86 billion in 2023, up from $60 billion in 2022. (Source: eMarketer)
- Delivery sales are expected to reach $54 billion in 2023, up from $36 billion in 2022. (Source: eMarketer)
- 65% of restaurant operators say that they are using online ordering and management systems. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 56% of restaurant operators say that they are using delivery food services. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 42% of restaurant operators say that they are using self-service kiosks. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 35% of restaurant operators say that they are using kitchen display systems. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 30% of restaurant operators say that they are using customer relationship management (CRM) software. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- 25% of restaurant operators say that they are using artificial intelligence (AI) in their operations. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
- AI is expected to be used by 35% of restaurant operators by 2024. (Source: Technomic)
- Restaurants are using AI to automate tasks, personalize the customer experience, and improve operational efficiency.
- For example, some restaurants are using AI-powered chatbots to answer customer questions and take orders.
- Other restaurants are using AI to analyze customer data and make recommendations about what to order.
- Restaurants are also using AI to improve their food preparation and delivery operations.
- Most restaurants are using AI to optimize their kitchen operations and reduce wait times.
A restaurant business that is able to adapt to the changing tech landscape will be well-positioned to succeed in 2023 and beyond.
Pro Tip: Here are some of the ways that restaurant owners can adapt to the changing restaurant tech trends:
- Invest in cloud-based restaurant POS systems that offer features such as online ordering integration, CRM, and data analytics.
- Implement a restaurant technology KDS system to streamline your kitchen operations.
- Consider installing self-service kiosks to reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction.
- Invest in a restaurant CRM software to track customer interactions, preferences, and purchase history.
- Explore ways to use AI to automate tasks, personalize the customer experience, and improve operational efficiency.
Restaurant Owner Statistics
Restaurant owners are a diverse group of people who come from all walks of life. They are united by their passion for food and their desire to create a successful business.
Restaurant owners face a number of challenges, including rising costs, labor shortages, and competition from other restaurants. However, they are also rewarded with the opportunity to create their own business and to serve their community.
Here are some statistics about restaurant owners:
- The majority of restaurant owners are aged over 40 (Source: Zippia)
- 54.5% of restaurateurs are men, while women account for 45.5%.(Source: Zippia)
- Delving into ethnic diversity, 41% of restaurant businesses are spearheaded by minority groups. This includes 19% that are Asian-owned, 14% that are owned by Hispanics, and 9% by Black African-Americans. (Source: Restaurant.org)
- In terms of academic credentials, almost half (49%) of restaurant owners hold a bachelor’s degree. Interestingly, a smaller fraction, just 6%, have pursued education up to a master’s level. (Source: Zippia)
- Among the global languages resonating in the restaurant industry, Spanish tops the list, closely followed by French. (Source: Zippia)
- Starting from the ground up seems to be a common narrative in the restaurant world. A National Restaurant Association report reveals that an impressive 9 in 10 restaurant owners began their journeys in entry-level roles. (Source: Restaurant.org)
Key Takeaways
- The restaurant industry has shown a remarkable recovery post-pandemic, displaying resilience and adaptability.
- A significant number of restaurants now leverage digital ordering, delivery systems, AI, and data analytics to enhance the overall dining experience.
- Many restaurants are embracing eco-friendly practices, catering to consumers’ growing preference for sustainable dining.
- Post-pandemic, there’s a noticeable tilt towards healthier, organic, and plant-based menu offerings as health concerns among consumers grow.
- International cuisines, including Asian fusion, Middle Eastern, and Latin American dishes, have gained immense popularity among diners.
- Traditional sit-down, casual dining venues are seeing a decrease in popularity as quick-service and experiential dining venues gain momentum.
- The remote work trend has affected lunchtime foot traffic in city centers, pushing restaurants to devise innovative daytime offerings.
- The increasing preference for online ordering and delivery has given rise to ‘ghost kitchens’—restaurants primarily focused on takeout or delivery without a traditional dine-in setup.
- Many restaurant owners face challenges related to staffing shortages and high turnover rates, underscoring the need for better working conditions and incentives.
- Restaurants that offer unique and immersive dining experiences are witnessing a surge in interest, suggesting that diners are seeking more than just a meal—they want an experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current size of the restaurant industry?
The restaurant industry is a major economic driver, both globally and in the US, employing millions of people and generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. The industry is also constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging all the time. In recent years, online ordering and delivery have become increasingly popular, and consumers are also showing a growing interest in healthy and sustainable food options.
What is the market growth rate of the restaurant industry?
The market growth rate of the restaurant industry is expected to be 10.79% from 2023 to 2030, according to Fortune Business Insights.
This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including:
- Growing global population: The global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, creating more demand for food and dining services.
- Increasing disposable incomes: As disposable incomes rise, people are more likely to eat out.
- Rising urbanization: More and more people are living in cities, where they are more likely to have access to a variety of restaurants.
- Growing popularity of online ordering and delivery: Online ordering and delivery make it easier and more convenient for people to eat out.
- Growing interest in healthy and sustainable food options: Consumers are increasingly interested in eating healthy and sustainable food, and restaurants are responding to this demand by offering more options.
The industry has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to change, and it is well-positioned to benefit from the long-term trends driving growth.
What is in the restaurant industry?
The restaurant industry refers to the broad term that encompasses all businesses that prepare and serve food to customers. This includes everything from fine dining restaurants to fast food chains, as well as cafes, bars, and other food service establishments.
Here each type of restaurant concept that can be found in the restaurant industry:
- Fine dining restaurants: These restaurants offer a high-end dining experience, with multiple courses, attentive service, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Casual dining restaurants: These restaurants offer a more relaxed dining experience, with a variety of menu options and a more affordable price point.
- Fast food restaurants: These restaurants offer quick and convenient meals, typically at a lower price point.
- Cafes: Cafes offer a variety of food and beverage options, including coffee, tea, pastries, and sandwiches.
- Bars: Bars offer a variety of alcoholic beverages, as well as food items such as appetizers and bar snacks.
- Other food service establishments: This category includes a wide range of businesses, such as catering companies, food trucks, and ghost kitchens.
The restaurant industry is a diverse and dynamic industry that plays an important role in the global economy. It is an industry that is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
