Biggest Gourmet Food Trends of 2021, According to Our In-House Chef

Two weeks into 2021, and there are a few topics that are undeniably on the top of our minds: sticking to our resolutions, hoping for a healthy year ahead, and — of course — food. Lots and lots of food.

While no one could have predicted the mini-pancake and bread-making crazes that appeared in 2020, here are four trends that are sure to start popping up on plates in 2021.

Plant-Based Everything

Roughly 28 percent of people revealed they have been eating more protein from plant sources during the pandemic, according to IFIC— and this trend won’t be slowing down anytime soon.

In 2021, expect even more consumers to flirt with plant-based and vegan options. Think: cauliflower wings, veggie burgers, and more. Additionally, plant-based also covers non-dairy beverage trends, like oat and almond milk.

Seafood Galore

Because of the flavor, variety, and healthy attributes of seafood, the last decade saw an overall increase in pescatarians and flexitarians. Now, in 2021, a new trend is picking up steam: seaganism.

In short, seaganism (coined by the Marine Stewardship Council) is where people follow a vegan diet, but include seafood for extra protein (and deliciousness). Those who adhere to this diet not only add fish to mealtimes for variety, but to benefit from high quality omega-3 fatty acids that can be hard to source on a traditional vegan diet.

Pickling/Fermenting

Throughout 2020, in-house fermenting and pickling was of particular interest in the food world, with the likes of Bon Appetit’s Chef Brad Leone bringing it to the spotlight.

In 2021, expect folks to continue to maximize the use of food as they show off their jars of pickled cucumbers, red onions, radishes, and more. Not only does this practice save money, it’s also healthy: Pickling improves digestion, strengthens the immune system, and promotes good gut health.

Comfort/Nostalgia Dining

It’s no secret people are craving anything that connects them to life before lockdowns— and this is especially true when it comes to food.

In 2021, expect people to lean towards dining options that are a reflection of the comfort and nostalgia they attach to life before 2020 hit. Think: feel-good dishes, like grandma’s classic pasta recipe, savory paella that brings you back to your Spanish roots, and more.

Restaurants will also move forward by providing guests with non-fussy comfort food and family-like hospitality, filling the need for warmth during these extraordinary times.