Ethnic cuisine continues to be popular with consumers—about a third (32%) say they would pay more for authentic ethnic dishes. Below are the factors consumers say they consider when determining whether a food or beverage is authentic.
Chefs/cooks have trained in the region of the cuisine
Overall: 51%
18-34: 47%
35+: 53%
Presentation is authentic
Overall: 48%
18-34: 47%
35+: 49%
Flavors are bold
Overall: 45%
18-34: 51%
35+: 43%
Restaurant specifically says the food is authentic
Overall: 43%
18-34: 33%
35+: 47%
Ingredients are imported from the region of the cuisine
Overall: 42%
18-34: 40%
35+: 42%
Restaurant ambiance/decor represents the region of the cuisine
Overall: 33%
18-34: 33%
35+: 32%
Chef/cooks look like they come from the region of the cuisine
Overall: 30%
18-34: 33%
35+: 29%
Staff looks like they come from the region of the cuisine
Overall: 22%
18-34: 27%
35+: 20%
Restaurant’s music is from the region of the cuisine
Overall: 22%
18-34: 32%
35+: 18%
Source: Technomic 2018 Ethnic Food & Beverage Consumer Trend Report
Photograph: Shutterstock