Emerging ethnic flavors
Asian, Latin and Mediterranean have dominated the "ethnic" category on menus for at least a decade. Now, Datassential's data analysis of U.S. Chains and Independents in 2012 revealed that niche ingredients and flavors within these big three are emerging.
A Bite of the Big Apple
New Yorkers still fill restaurants, but they are spending less and choosing cheaper places to dine, according to the 2012 Zagat Restaurant Survey. The survey, which polled 44,306 New Yorkers, found that new restaurant openings are catering to shrinking wallets in the Big Apple.
The limitless possibilities of making a meal between two slices of bread have catapulted the sandwich into new menu territory. Breakfast and lunch sandwiches still dominate, but these days, bars and late night menus are featuring mini ethnic sandwiches and full-service restaurants tout overstuffed dinner-size versions.