Edible flowers are used to visually elevate food and beverage
Implications - As the average consumer gains an appreciation for gourmet food and beverage presentation, many dishes are being prepared to emphasize plating with decorative floral and botanic elements. Largely influenced by the proliferation of image-centered social platforms, the average consumer is quickly gaining an education in upscale presentation that was previously considered the expertise of a gourmand. This progression speaks to the view of food as being a status symbol rooted in aesthetics above all else.
Workshop Question - How could you up-level the aesthetic value of your current offering?
Trend Themes
1. Edible Flowers - The use of botanical elements in food and drink presentation is becoming more prominent, signaling a growing appreciation for gourmet cuisine's visual elements.
2. Mediterranean Influences - Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, dishes like Pizza Goon's Mozzarella Egg and Morel Pizza are integrating rich flavors and interesting botanical ingredients.
3. Textile-inspired Presentation - Food presentation is beginning to draw inspiration from the patterns and colors of textiles, as evidenced by Sprinkle Bakes' poppy seed cake, which is adorned with a fabric-inspired edible icing.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - Food and beverage companies can explore botanical ingredients and patterns in their products to cater to the growing consumer appreciation of visual elements in cuisine.
2. Hospitality - Hospitality businesses can leverage the trend of decorative adornment in their menu designs and decor to create visual appeal and enhance their customers' experience.
3. Fashion - Fashion companies can draw inspiration from the textile-inspired presentation trend and incorporate similar patterns and colors into their product designs.