The Dining Trends Report by OpenTable highlights significant shifts in how Americans approach dining out as the restaurant industry enters 2026. Based on comprehensive reservation data and national consumer surveys, the report reveals that more Americans are dining out, with a projected increase of 8% year over year. Notably, over half of Americans, or 55%, anticipate higher spending on dining in the coming year.
Changing Perspectives on Dining Out
The report indicates that dining out is increasingly viewed as a valuable experience rather than a simple meal. On average, diners plan to eat out ten times per month, signifying the prominence of restaurants in social life. Even during typically quieter months, such as January, 62% of Americans are expected to frequent popular dining spots during peak hours.
Affordability remains a crucial factor; restaurants offering economic options experienced greater foot traffic in 2025, a trend likely to continue into January 2026. Dining during happy hours and mid-week is anticipated to surge by 13% compared to January 2025.
Flexibility and Spontaneity in Dining Choices
Flexibility has emerged as a key trend, with diners increasingly favoring spontaneous outings. The report notes an impressive 84% increase in the use of Notify Me alerts, which notify users of reservation openings at sought-after restaurants. Major cities such as New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, and Las Vegas have seen the highest demand for these alerts.
Diners are willing to wait for tables, with the average acceptable wait time reaching approximately 39 minutes. This reflects a broader trend where nearly half of Americans (49%) expect to engage in more spontaneous dining experiences in 2026.
Dining out is increasingly perceived as an event rather than a routine activity. The report reveals that 61% of Americans consider dining out a special occasion, leading to increased spending. Diners are likely to spend 40% more on meals for anniversaries compared to regular visits. Experiences such as themed nights, tasting menus, and chef’s tables have seen a 46% rise year over year.
Furthermore, 37% of respondents express a desire for more experiential dining, with 48% indicating a willingness to visit restaurants that host pop-ups or special events. Happy hours have made a notable comeback, with 51% of Americans seeking more promotions during early evening hours. Dining between 16:00 and 16:59 has risen by 13% compared to the previous year.
Technology is also transforming how diners discover and interact with restaurants. Approximately 44% of Americans plan to utilize AI tools to identify and make reservations at restaurants in 2026. This reflects a significant shift towards tech-enabled dining choices.
Design and ambiance play an essential role in restaurant selection. Many diners are willing to pay a premium for unique atmospheres, with 48% stating they would opt for establishments with a distinctive vibe. Additionally, 58% of respondents consider a restaurant’s social media presence when deciding where to dine.
The report indicates a notable increase in interest for various international cuisines, with Thai cuisine seeing a remarkable 76% increase, followed by 35% for Australian cuisine and 34% for Middle Eastern options. Classic dishes like shrimp cocktail, chicken pot pie, and meatloaf are also being revisited in restaurant menus.
According to the OpenTable 2026 Dining Trends Report, dining out is evolving into a dynamic social experience. As Americans express intentions to dine out more frequently and invest in experiences, restaurants prioritizing flexibility, value-driven offerings, innovative technology, and engaging environments will be poised to meet shifting consumer expectations.
