What’s in store for our plates and palates this year? We’ve noticed some unmistakable food trends on our 2023 radar!
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1- Matcha. Everything.
Everything’s gone green. From lattes to cakes, ice creams and more- you’ll be sure to find matcha all over the city. Matcha is a green tea powder, made from leaves specially grown and processed for this purpose. It has proven health benefits – from weight maintenance to mental clarity. However, I have a feeling the health benefits waiver when baked into a cake full of butter and sugar… let’s just not think about that part…
2- Tacos
Mexican food is seeing a surge in London, but tacos in particular. This American transplant is for one thrilled to see taquerias popping up around the city. Baja fish tacos, pulled pork, chicken tinga… I for one will be getting my fill this year and I suggest you do too!
3- Alternative Pasta
Oh so much better than “alternative facts,” whether you’ve gone Paleo or just trying to cut back on all the spaghetti, alternative pasta will be more readily available including courgetti, sweet potato noodles, black bean pasta, edamame noodles and more! This is one of the best food trends.
4- And while we’re at it… Vegetables
Vegetarians, Vegans and Flexitarians rejoice! Vegetables are hot this year, and you’re sure to have an easier time finding veggie options when dining out. Even Michelin star chefs are taking note, with vegetarian tasting menus becoming more common. For something special in London, I highly recommend the ‘Menu Jardin’ tasting menu at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.
5- And on the other end of the spectrum- Offal
Nose to tail dining is picking up steam in a move to counteract restaurant food waste. You’ll see animal parts you may not be used to eating popping up on menus around the city! Dig into heart, kidney, brains and more!
6- Insects
They say insects are the protein of the future… I’m still not convinced. But if you’d like to try for yourself bugs are becoming more popular as toppings, garnish, protein powder to bake with… Carousel even hosted London’s first “Insect Bar” recently by YFood, complete with cricket flour pasta, insect tofu, tempura grasshoppers and more!
7- Low and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
There seems to be lately a wave of people either cutting back on alcohol consumption or choosing a completely dry lifestyle. These people will be on the look out for more sophisticated buzzless beverages. Restaurants and bars such as Kouzu are now offering an array of refreshing non-alcoholic drinks made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
8- Kefir, Pickles and other Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are having a moment. Benefits abound – with the probiotics in fermented foods being vital for gut health and weight control. Kombucha, pickled vegetables, and my personal favourite, kefir (fermented milk) are sure to be seen on many a menu this year.
9- Charcoal
Your favourite foods are going goth. Charcoal is popping up in breads, juices, ice creams and more! Health benefits of activated charcoal include detoxing, teeth whitening, skin clearing and even preventing hangovers. On top of that, charcoal adds Instagram-worthiness, smoky flavours and crunchy textures.
10- Purple Foods
Purple produce packs a punch of positive… p… enefits. The darker the food, the higher the antioxidant level. Antioxidants mop up free radicals and help you look younger. Purple foods are also ulcer-fighters, reduce damage to the liver, lower cholesterol, and encourage urinary health. That’s certainly enough to get me on board! You’ll see purple everywhere this year, from restaurants, bars and even bakeries.
Is there anything you’ve noticed that I’ve left out? Any of these you would just never try? (I’m not a fan of the bugs, myself…) Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! This is one of the best food trends.
I am an experienced writer specializing in travel, food, weddings, and well-being. Continuing my nomadic lifestyle I am currently based on the beautiful island of Malta.