The bold flavors and global influences of restaurants are increasingly making their way into our own kitchens. A new trend report from Paulig shows that 74 percent of restaurant guests actively seek out new flavor experiences when they eat out, and many want to take the inspiration to everyday meals.

The report draws on insights from chefs, restaurants and consumers across multiple countries and shows how the restaurant world functions as a culinary laboratory, testing ideas that eventually end up on our dinner tables, just as the Santa Maria brand once made Taco Friday a Nordic food tradition.

“The restaurant world has always been the place where trends are born, tested and refined before they reach kitchen tables. With the report, we want to show what flavors and dining experiences people will enjoy tomorrow,” says Karin Öjersjö at Paulig. These three trends are hot right now and show how the world's cuisine continues to inspire, and how tomorrow's dinners are shaped by both curiosity and bolder flavors:

BOLD AND HOT FLAVORS
The flavor palette is becoming increasingly expressive. Dishes with heat, acidity, smokiness and umami are taking up more space as both chefs and diners seek more intense flavor experiences. This marks a clear shift away from delicate flavors towards more complex and powerful dishes.

REGIONAL CUISINE
Interest in food culture and origins is growing. Cuisine from the Philippines, Peru, Taiwan and Korea, among others, is increasingly appearing on menus. At the same time, guests want to know more about the ingredients, traditional techniques and the people behind the food – something that makes storytelling an important part of the dining experience.

SPICES AND HERBS
More and more chefs are highlighting spices and herbs as the main players in the kitchen. Origin, quality and rare varieties, from exclusive pepper varieties to locally grown herbs, give dishes depth and character.

ABOUT PAULIG
Paulig is an international food company that offers Tex Mex, snacks, coffee, World Foods and spices. The company's brand portfolio includes Santa Maria, Paulig, Conimex, Risenta, Poco Loco and Zanuy.