The NPD Group, a market research company, polled 2000 consumers to learn about burger eating in casual restaurants.
What they found is that people prefer bigger burgers and those topped with cheese. When it comes to rolls, burger fans seem to be open to baguettes and other non-traditional breads as well as the usual buns.
Trend-tracking firm FoodWatch partnered with NPD to share additional burger insights:
- Ketchup is still the #1 condiment, but popular flavor partners include Ranch, bacon and barbecue
- Emerging flavors include orange, ginger, garlic and parsley
- Flavors gaining awareness are cilantro and Caesar
"New flavors and toppings are a great way to make a menu staple like hamburgers fresh and exciting," comments Michele Schmal, VP foodservice for the NPD Group. "As casual dining operators explore ways to grow, it's good to remember that Americans love to try new twists on old favorites."