#United States #Atlanta #Popmenu #Non-Alcoholic Beverages #U.S. Restaurants

Water: An Increasingly Popular Choice for Holiday Dining

As we approach the holiday season, many U.S. consumers are dining out more frequently, leading to significant insights about beverage choices during December. According to a recent study conducted by Popmenu, 50% of consumers plan to enjoy meals at restaurants during the festive month, with an exciting trend in beverage preferences emerging among diners.

The Shift Towards Non-Alcoholic Options

Observing the dining habits of 874 consumers, the survey revealed that a remarkable 61% of respondents usually favor non-alcoholic drinks when eating out. Among these, 33% exclusively choose water, demonstrating a substantial shift in beverage preference away from alcoholic or sugary soft drinks, especially during a time traditionally dominated by festive cocktails and bubbly drinks.

Restaurant operators have also noticed this growing trend. 55% of them reported an increasing number of patrons opting for water over other beverages, pointing to a potential shift in consumer priorities. Brendan Sweeney, CEO of Popmenu, remarked, 'Whether driven by budget, lifestyle, or taste, water is establishing itself as the drink of choice at many restaurants.'

Alcohol Consumption Remains Steady

Despite the rise in water consumption among diners, there remains a steady appetite for alcoholic beverages. Reports suggest that half of the restaurant operators maintaining alcohol sales have noted no significant change year-over-year, while 22% say alcohol purchases have actually increased. On average, diners are spending about $30 on alcohol during their meals. Seasonal favorites like the Margarita, Whiskey Sour, and Mimosa continue to grace patrons' tables, yet the popularity of tap water should not be underestimated.

The Beverage Breakdown

Looking at preferences, it appears the shift towards water is accompanied by a continuing fondness for soft drinks and other non-alcoholic beverages. 51% of consumers still often opt for soft drinks, with water coming in as a close second. When it comes to water, consumer preferences show that 42% favor tap water, with just 30% opting for bottled and a small 8% choosing sparkling water.

Exploring the Non-Alcoholic Trends

The trend extends further into non-alcoholic offerings. Over 58% of operators indicate that sales of these beverages remain stable, while 24% note an increase. Notably, 59% of establishments are now providing mocktails and non-alcoholic alternatives, catering to discerning consumers who wish to enjoy flavorful drinks without the alcohol.

In this era of increasing health consciousness and culturally-driven trends, it is clear that consumers are making thoughtful choices regarding their dining experiences and beverage selections. The recent report from Popmenu encapsulates a defining moment where water is not just an option but a prime choice, transforming the landscape of dining in the U.S. restaurant scene.

Conclusion

As dining out becomes part of the holiday tradition for many, this shift towards water and non-alcoholic beverages signals a larger movement within consumer habits. With interest in both healthy options and mindful consumption on the rise, water is poised to be not just a simple refreshment but a key player at tables across the country this December and beyond. As we celebrate this holiday season, it’s worth raising a glass of water or a crafted non-alcoholic beverage in the spirit of good health and joyful gatherings.