As restaurants look ahead, restaurant trends for 2025 reveal a clear winner in driving customer loyalty: personalized promotions. According to Provoke Insights’ Summer 2025 Consumer Trends Report, created in partnership with Modern Restaurant Management (MRM), nearly one-third of Americans say tailored deals make them more loyal to specific restaurants.

Although AI-powered features continue to emerge in the industry, consumers remain more interested in tools that prioritize convenience and value. “Self-service kiosks and customized offers are far more appealing than advanced AI integrations,” says Carly Fink, President and Head of Research & Strategy at Provoke Insights.

Highlights from the Article

High-income households and urban dwellers are leading the charge in restaurant visits, especially at upscale locations.

• Millennials and parents also over-index on restaurant outings, favoring nightlife and elevated dining experiences.

• Inflation remains a concern, with 73% of Americans noticing higher restaurant prices—second only to grocery stores.

• Many low-frequency diners have incomes under $150,000 and eat out only a few times per year.

Despite rising costs, consumer optimism is growing. This positive outlook is fueled by a renewed emphasis on family time and personal well-being. To capitalize on these shifts, restaurants should consider:

• Family-friendly promotions like “kids eat free” nights

• Health-conscious and plant-based options

• Locally sourced and cost-effective menu innovations

• Experiential dining that doubles as an escape for busy professionals

Rather than overhauling their tech stack, restaurants should focus on introducing AI where it enhances the guest experience. For example, quick-service brands can benefit from automation, while full-service restaurants should double down on hospitality. Most importantly, AI can be used to deliver smart, personalized promotions that encourage repeat visits.

These findings come from a nationally representative survey of 1,500 U.S. adults aged 21–65, conducted in March 2025. The data is part of Provoke Insights’ bi-annual trend study, now in its tenth wave, offering a pulse on evolving consumer behavior.

Want to explore more insights from this wave?

Check out the full Summer 2025 Consumer Trends Report for research on grocery, alcohol, skincare, furniture, high net worth consumers, and more.

Looking to uncover insights that drive business growth?

Contact Provoke Insights to learn how our custom market research solutions can support your brand strategy, innovation, and advertising.