In a survey fielded in May, 33% of readers of restaurant development + design said that zoned restaurants — those with variations in dining areas to create new experiences during repeat visits — were the top dining room trend today. That means providing a mix of seating areas or nooks makes for a modern and comfortable dining room.
Alternatively, 27% of readers said that smaller spaces with more efficient layouts were the top trend in restaurant dining rooms. These results point to a divide among operators: those with larger spaces are creating varied experiences under one roof but those without are focused on efficiency. It could also point to a divide in service styles with full-service restaurants offering a mix of seating zones and QSRs catering to those on the go with smaller dining areas.
An additional 25% of readers said that open kitchens or views to the back of the house were still a top trend. Open kitchens don’t appear to be going anywhere and that is true across segment types.
Just 8% of readers said that highly branded or immersive environments were a top dining room trend. Just 3% noted that communal seating areas were trending.
Finally, 4% had a mix of other responses that included increased comfort and privacy as a top trend. Comfort and privacy also indicate that offering a mix of zones and seating options are on trend.
What it means: Designers offer a mix of seating types and styles to create cozy smaller areas within large dining rooms. Six years out from the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems diners still crave privacy and comfort.
rd+d regularly surveys subscribers on the state of restaurant development and design. Subscribe to The Pulse to get rd+d’s surveys and results delivered to your inbox six times a year and to contribute your opinions to the surveys.
