#USA #Washington #Consumer Trends #National Restaurant Association #Off-Premises Dining

The Rise of Off-Premises Dining: A New Era for Restaurants

In recent years, the landscape of dining has undergone a significant transformation. As per the 2025 Off-Premises Restaurant Trends report from the National Restaurant Association, astonishingly, nearly 75% of all restaurant traffic now occurs off-premises. This shift implies that about three out of four restaurant orders are now being taken to go, highlighting a major pivot in consumer behavior toward convenience and efficiency.

Key Drivers Behind the Shift

Dr. Chad Moutray, Chief Economist at the National Restaurant Association, emphasized the economic implications of this trend. He stated, "Off-premises dining has become a key revenue driver and an essential way to engage consumers." Since 2019, off-premises dining has grown significantly, now accounting for a more substantial share of sales for 58% of limited-service operators and 41% of full-service operators. This shift has evolved into a critical path for restaurant resilience and growth, especially in light of ongoing economic pressures.

Who's Leading the Charge?

The demand for off-premises dining is notably driven by younger generations, particularly Gen Z and millennials. Approximately two-thirds of these groups consider takeout essential to their lifestyle, with nearly 60% utilizing takeout or drive-thru services at least weekly. Furthermore, over 60% report that they are ordering off-premises more frequently than they did a year ago.

Urban areas see a high demand for such services, while 67% of rural consumers express a desire for increased takeout options, indicating substantial growth potential in underserved regions. Preferences also vary by age group, with mobile ordering becoming mainstream — about 57% of adults have adopted this method, including 74% of millennials and 65% of Gen Z.

How Restaurants Are Adapting

In response to these changing consumer preferences, a vast majority of limited-service operators, around 65%, now offer delivery services. Many expect curbside pickup and dedicated takeout areas to become even more prevalent by 2025. Although fewer full-service restaurants currently provide off-premises options, a noteworthy 43% anticipate a growth in curbside pickups, and 31% expect increased dedicated takeout counters. These adaptations are not merely operational updates; they represent significant growth opportunities in a fluctuating market.

Consumer Expectations: Speed and Value

As restaurants adapt, understanding consumer preferences becomes paramount. The report indicates several key areas where consumers seek enhancement: speed, ease of use, and rewarding experiences top the list. An impressive 94% of consumers state that speed is critical in their dining experience, with over 90% prioritizing customer service.

Furthermore, value remains a crucial consideration. More than 80% of patrons frequently utilize deals such as