From Black Limes and Korean Comfort Food to Clarified Citrus Cocktails: Kimpton Unveils 2025 Culinary + Cocktail Trends

Core Insights - Kimpton's annual Culinary + Cocktail Trend Forecast for 2025 highlights innovative ingredients and techniques shaping global restaurant and bar menus, emphasizing a blend of traditional and modern culinary influences [1][2][4] Culinary Trends - Ingredients on the Rise: Black tahini will be featured in various dishes, while chili crunch fusions will combine global flavors for unique toppings [2][3] - Salted Egg Yolk: This ingredient will be used in diverse dishes, enhancing umami flavors in items like creamy pasta and salads [3] - Elevated Snacking: New snacking trends will include Middle Eastern-inspired mezze platters and seafood-focused shareable boards [3] - Korean Cuisine: Dishes like Kimchi Eggs Benedict will merge Korean flavors with American comfort food [3] - Southeast Asian Influence: Filipino, Burmese, and Indonesian cuisines will inspire a variety of menu items across the U.S. [3] - Oil Exploration: Chefs will focus on the unique qualities of various oils, enhancing the flavor profiles of dishes [3] Cocktail/Beverage Trends - Super Juice: Bartenders will use acid correction techniques to mimic unavailable flavors in cocktails [4] - Vegan Clarified Milks: Non-dairy milks will be incorporated into cocktails, providing creamy textures [4] - Freeze-Dried Powders: This technique will enhance flavors and textures in beverages, promoting zero waste [4] - Transformative Techniques: Bartenders will experiment with sous vide and forced carbonation to create innovative drinks [4] - Reimagined Classics: Classic cocktails like Martinis and Midori Sours will see new ingredient variations [4] - Non-Alcoholic Options: The trend towards non-alcoholic beverages will continue, featuring well-composed drinks with botanical ingredients [4] Dining Experience Trends - Newstalgia: A blend of retro and modern influences will shape menu items and dining experiences, incorporating playful twists on classic dishes [7] - Sound Immersion: Restaurants will enhance the dining experience through curated playlists and soundscapes, creating a more engaging atmosphere [7]