More consumers are seeking dining experiences versus just meals. Tighter budgets are apparently causing more consumers to seek broader experiences while dining out. According to Yelp data analyzing consumer searches from January to March, diners are seeking options that prioritize entertainment and uniqueness. For example, searches for Le Petit Chef were up 509% during Yelp’s timeframe. Le Petit Chef bills itself as 'an immersive dining experience' that combines culinary arts with technology. The concept features 'the world’s smallest chef' — a 6-centimeter-tall, animated Frenchman who is brought to life on diners’ tables using 3D projection technology.
Further, 'hibachi catering' searches jumped by 55%, while searches for 'chef’s table' were up 36%, and 'popup restaurant' searches were up 14%. Medieval Times searches were up 40%. The concept has been around since 1973, featuring a dinner theater experience that transports guests to an 11th-century Medieval feast and tournament. Yelp’s data corroborates some of Technomic’s Top 500 data from 2024, in which concepts such as Cooper’s Hawk, KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, Kura Sushi, and Puttshack grew their sales significantly faster than the industry average of just above 3%.
These trends also match recent research conducted by hospitality management platform SevenRooms finding that diners have become more selective in their spending, but they’re willing to spend for experiences that feel 'premium and exclusive.' Seventy-four percent of consumers said they will return to a restaurant after a unique experience.