Five Trends from the 2025 Show Floor

We’ve analyzed our partner brands’ coverage to bring you the top five trends from the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show. Now’s the perfect time to consider incorporating some of these ideas into your operation!

Ready to take action? You've got until the end of August to connect with the exhibitors behind these trends through The Show To Go. Don't wait—this is your chance to stay ahead of the competition and boost your business!

Vision AI & Smart Surveillance
Though AI has been trending broadly for a while, camera-based AI tools specifically dominated discussions at this year’s Show. Standout examples include PreciTaste's "Station Assistant," which monitors ingredient levels and tracks oven usage, and DTiQ's Drive Thru solutions. For operators looking to gain competitive advantage, these visual insights transform everyday operations into opportunities for smarter, data-driven decision making.

Source: https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-technology/4-emerging-ai-solutions-spotted-at-the-national-restaurant-association-show

Dirty Soda
With LTOs and personalization top of mind across the industry, it's no surprise that giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsi are jumping on board with new, customized versions of old favorites. Both brands showcased a variety of beverage creations using syrups, mix-ins and other flavors that could inspire profitable drink opportunities for restaurants. Word is this trend is especially popular with Gen Z.

Source: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/beverage/beverage-giants-pepsi-coke-wade-dirty-soda-movement

Spicy Asian Flavors
Asian-inspired hot sauces earned high praise from this year's FABI judges and generated excitement across the Show floor. With Vietnamese and Korean cuisines among the hottest culinary trends of 2025, these sauces perfectly align with evolving consumer preferences. Consider adding gochujang, sriracha or chili oils to your dishes for some authentic East Asian flair.

Source: https://go.restaurant.org/rs/078-ZLA-461/images/What%27s%20Hot%202025.pdf

Off-Premise Support
Delivery, take out, catering and drive-thru options continue to surge in popularity, challenging operators to find effective tools to meet this demand. 2025 exhibitors showcased numerous innovations designed to support off-premise ventures, from high-speed cooking equipment and eco-friendly to-go packaging to seamlessly integrated digital ordering systems. These solutions offer operators powerful ways to enhance customer satisfaction while streamlining operations in the increasingly competitive off-premise space.

Source: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/operations/consumers-dining-premises-want-speed-value-better-packaging

Pickles
Pickles and pickle flavor were everywhere on the Show floor this year—including in lemonades by Coca-Cola and Keurig Dr Pepper, in an electrolyte-infused “juice shooter” by SuckerPunch Pickles and as a ready-to-eat FABI Awarded snacking option by POSHI. This surge in pickle-forward products reflects consumers' growing appetite for bold, tangy flavors. Watch for more pickle-inspired offerings popping up on menus throughout the year.

Source: https://restaurant.org/education-and-resources/resource-library/whats-hot-and-cool-national-restaurant-association-show-2025/