Summer Food & Beverage Trends
Summer dining continues to evolve as guests gravitate toward lighter flavors, refreshing beverages, and menus that highlight seasonality. STR’s 2025 performance data confirmed that food and beverage remained a meaningful contributor to on‑property revenue, supported by strong leisure travel and increased guest spending across dining categories. As temperatures rise, guests are seeking dishes and drinks that feel bright, energizing, and aligned with the pace of summer.
Recent consumer insights reflect a continued shift toward citrus‑forward and low‑ABV beverages. Datassential’s 2024–2025 research found that 42% of consumers prefer citrus‑driven drinks during warmer months, and low‑ABV cocktails grew 18% year‑over‑year as guests look for options that feel refreshing without being heavy. Younger travelers, who increased their travel frequency by 21% between 2023 and 2025 (Morning Consult), continue to drive interest in beverages that balance flavor, visual appeal, and a sense of occasion.
On the culinary side, coastal‑inspired dishes are performing strongly as guests seek meals that feel light yet satisfying. Citrus‑cured seafood, chilled salads, and herb‑forward preparations reflect a broader preference for freshness during summer. Plant‑forward dishes remain a consistent request, with one in three consumers seeking lighter, wellness‑aligned options during warm months. These preferences mirror a growing desire for food that supports both comfort and exploration.
Outdoor dining continues to shape the summer food and beverage experience. Patios, rooftops, and open‑air spaces naturally become gathering points as temperatures rise, and guests often choose these environments for the atmosphere as much as the menu itself. Spaces that feel relaxed, thoughtfully designed, and connected to the season tend to encourage guests to linger, enjoy another drink, or explore additional menu items. Lighting, greenery, and comfortable seating contribute to an environment that feels inviting without being overstated, allowing guests to settle into the moment and enjoy the slower rhythm of summer dining.
As travel and dining demand remain steady into 2026, guests are looking for flavors that feel refreshing, environments that feel intentional, and experiences that help them savor the season. The combination of bright cocktails, coastal influences, and open‑air dining continues to define what guests crave most during the warmest months of the year.