Christmas 2024 Food & Drink Trends to Watch

As the festive season approaches, it’s time for foodservice operators to gear up for the busiest time of the year. Christmas is expected to be a celebration of indulgence and culinary creativity. From plant-based options to traditional Christmas plates with a modern twist, the trends shaping this year’s food and drink market offer something for every palate.

Read on to discover what to expect on menus and in professional kitchens across the country this winter…

Nostalgia meets innovation

Traditional Christmas flavours are as popular as ever but the trend this year is to add a modern twist. Familiar favourites like mince pies, Christmas puddings and mulled wine, and traditional sides like mash and roasted vegetables are being reimagined with unexpected ingredients or bold presentation.

Think mince pies made with caramelised pineapple, Christmas puddings infused with exotic spices like cardamom, or brown butter and miso mash and harissa roasted root vegetables. The merging of classic and contemporary will be a hallmark of Christmas dining this year, so don’t be afraid to go bold with your menu planning for the festive season!

668518 Chef’s Kitchen Christmas Pudding Log 14ptn 1.7kg x 2
689770 Mince Pies Thaw & Serve 56g x 100

Local festive fare

With consumers continuing to become more eco-conscious, sustainability continues to drive purchasing decisions. For Christmas 2024, there’s a clear emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, reduced food waste, and eco-friendly packaging.

Irish and seasonal produce is in demand, as is transparency about where ingredients come from. Businesses should communicate key messaging around provenance across festive menus, highlighting Irish meat and veg where used.

654855 William’s Gate Whole Cooked Ham AP 5kg Per kg
654886 William’s Gate Beef Striploin AP 7-8kg Per kg

Plant-based festivities

Plant-based diets have moved beyond a niche market, and this Christmas will see even more innovative options to cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.

So far this year, we’ve seen the rise in dishes that use wholefood ingredients, so businesses should offer creative festive mains which champion the very best of vegetables and plant-based proteins, such as nut roasts and wellingtons. Traditional Christmas flavours can still be utilised to ensure dishes still have a festive feel and don’t compromise on taste.

703477 Vegetable Gyoza 20g 600g x 10
692861 Eden Vegan Sausages 40’s 2kg x 1

Zero alcohol drinks with a festive twist

The trend for low and no-alcohol beverages has seen steady growth in recent years, and Christmas 2024 will be no exception. Many consumers are opting for alcohol-free alternatives that don’t sacrifice on flavour or experience.

Expect to offer sophisticated zero-alcohol wines, craft mocktails that aren’t overly sweet, and festive non-alcoholic beers as key components of drink menus, offering a tipple free yet equally festive option.

687447 Nozeco Alcohol Free 750ml x 6

Global inspirations

As global cuisine continues to influence Irish menus, we’ll see more international flavours making their way into Irish menus. From Middle Eastern spiced meats to Asian-inspired sweet treats, the fusion of world flavours with festive classics will be popular.

Customers are looking for adventurous tastes, and foodservice operators can embrace this by introducing dishes like festive spiced lamb or honey-glazed duck paired with Irish root veggies.

713445 Bao Buns Double Sliced 500g x 10
654955 William’s Gate Lamb Rack French Trimmed 700g x 2

Comfort foods with a twist

Though indulgence is key, comfort food remains at the heart of Christmas celebrations. Think rich, hearty dishes like casseroles, gratins, and pies – but expect to see them elevated with gourmet ingredients.

For a tasty starter option, truffle mac and cheese is just one example of how comfort food is being redefined with a touch of luxury.

For foodservice businesses, staying ahead of these trends is key to delivering an unforgettable Christmas experience in 2024. By offering a mix of traditional favourites and modern, innovative dishes, there’s plenty of opportunity to cater to diverse tastes. Whatever your customers are looking for, this festive season promises something for everyone!

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