Popular Foods

Lemon: Citrus is a big trend, especially lemon. You will find it in your desserts, main dishes, and drinks. We are familiar with lemon zest and chefs nationwide are giving you the 'OK' to explore this widely forgotten taste kicker. Also, adding lemon to your dish can make a heavy meal seem lighter.






The Mash-up: Chocolate flavored potato chips? Bacon ice cream? Although it sounds like a mix up, mash-up dishes, or cuisines, are predicted to be a sensation. You will hear about different foods being used as flavors. One example is beer-and-pretzel flavored candles. Also, look for new restaurants in your neighborhood offering two opposite cuisines in one place.

Hyper-local Sourcing: Third party sourcing is a word most restaurants nationwide use constantly. But that's so 2013, according to experts. Hyper-local sourcing means using your own restaurant space to grow your products, in a sense, a restaurant garden or greenhouse.

Popcorn: Popcorn is the perfect addition to any movie, but it's more than that. A great treat in the office, better yet, a great snack at any get together. Just add a few toppings like maple syrup, bacon, hers, sea salt, cinnamon, or a sprinkle of Old Bay.

Alcohol Infused Desserts: Our sweet tooth is taking us further than our usual sugar high. Alcohol-infused desserts, like cupcakes, are creating a buzz nationwide. Although they won't replace your favorite cocktail, they make for awesome new flavors.

Exotic Meats: Although not a vegetarian option, many restaurants are investing in this trend. The good thing about this trend is that meat lovers won't have to suffer when it comes to flavor. Rabbit, ostrich, and bison are lean meats lower in fat and higher in protein, while being a tasty substitute for the usual fatty meats served in the United States.

Coconut Water: Summer is the perfect time to hydrate with this healthy drink. Low in calories, naturally fat and cholesterol free, and with more potassium than four bananas, the coconut water is a must-have by the pool and at the beach. Coconut water has a sweet nutty taste and it's very refreshing. Drink tropically with a Caribbean-inspired cocktail made with coconut water.

Bitter Foods (Kale, Watercress, Brussels Sprouts, Parsley, and Hops): Vegetables, cocktails, desserts, and sauces will have a little distinct aftertaste this year. Don't be bitter about the news, just embrace it! Look for these steamed, used in tea, sandwiches or as garnishes.

Cauliflower: Who knew this bland little vegetable could do so much? The cauliflower boom continues. Mash it, roast it into a meatless steak, or you can even make it into wings and noodles. Always flavorful garnished with a dollop of butter and sprinkled with cinnamon, or served with a side of Hollandaise sauce.