2026 Summer Travel & Dining report: Key trends shaping restaurant demand
The summer travel season is here—and restaurants have a major opportunity to capture vacationers’ dining-out dollars.
The National Restaurant Association’s newly released 2026 Summer Tourism & Dining report: Key Trends Shaping Restaurant Demand delivers timely insights into how consumers plan to travel, dine, entertain, and spend their discretionary income this summer. Based on survey findings from more than 1,000 consumers, the report can help operators understand what guests want most—from affordability and convenience to memorable, local dining experiences.
Whether you operate a national chain, regional concept, independent restaurant, or emerging startup, the goal is the same: to increase profitability. This report will help you make smarter, more strategic business decisions during one of the industry’s busiest seasons.
Key takeaways
- Many consumers plan to travel this summer
- Dining out is the top activity for travelers
- Convenience and affordability drive dining decisions
- Vacationers want to experience local foods and flavors
- Summer inspires culinary exploration
- Word-of-mouth remains the most powerful way to attract new guests
- Consumers increasingly use digital channels to discover restaurants
- Restaurants play an important role in at-home gatherings and celebrations
- The upcoming World Cup could create new opportunities for restaurants
Free to download, this report offers valuable insights into customer preferences, spending plans, and dining behaviors—which will help operators prepare for a successful summer season.
Download your copy today!