HOLIDAY FOODSERVICE WINS
Indulgence, Comfort, and Convenience
Comfort, Consistency, and Connection in Every Cup
The holiday season brings excitement for both guests and foodservice operators. It’s a chance to revisit familiar favorites alongside creative new flavors that mix nostalgia with novelty.
Win hearts (and visits) with the right mix of indulgence, comfort, and convenience.
People look forward to the return of their favorite fall and winter flavors. They’re also on the lookout for novel creations. When asked how often they would try something new when dining out, 75% of consumers said they try something new on a menu at least some of the time.1 Serve up a limited-time menu diners can’t pass up, by offering a blend of crowd-pleasers and fresh interpretations.
Of consumers are interestedin purchasing limited-edition items or restaurant specials/LTOs in the fall.2
Of consumers associate thewinter season with specialflavors, dishes, beverages, andlimited-time offers (LTOs)from restaurants.3
Remains the single largestmonth for non-alcoholic beverage LTOs.4
1. Datassential, Menu Development (2025); 2. Datassential, Fall Trends (2025); 3. Datassential, Winter Trends (2024) 4. Datassential, State of the LTO (2025)
Type your content here…
While you can always win with festive flavors for traditional holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween, don’t miss out on unexpected opportunities.
Sources: 1. Datassential, Fall Trends (2025)
During the holidays, people look forward to indulgence, the act of giving themselves permission to enjoy rich, sweet, and out-of-the-ordinary foods. More than half (52%) of consumers indulge on special occasions and holidays.1 Shift into holiday mode by adapting and reintroducing the classic comfort foods patrons crave during cold months.
Of consumers are more likely to try a new food if it is indulgent.2
Combines the sweetness of apple cider with the heat of hot honey, creating a balance of farm-favorite flavors. See Recipe
Cornell Dining's eateries offer a constant stream of holiday dinners. Their fall celebration features pumpkin ice cream, pumpkin ravioli, and pumpkin spice hot chocolate.3
Sources: 1. Datassential, Permissible Indulgence (2024); 2. Datassential, Menu Development (2024); 3. https://scl.cornell.edu/news-events/news/dining-events-fall-2025
Don't leave out seasonal drinks. For “indulgers,” beverages like coffee, beer, and hot chocolate are more likely to seem indulgent compared to those who rarely indulge.1 Give patrons something special to toast this season.
A tempting twist on Nestlé Rich Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix. Level it up with Coffee mate® Peppermint Mocha creamer!See Recipe
54% of consumers said they’d go to SONIC just to get this2 green apple-flavored slush, mixed with salted caramel bubbles and topped with creamy vanilla soft serve.
Sources: 1. Datassential, Permissible Indulgence (2024); 2. Datassential, Fall Trends (2025)
Guests love the comfort of seasonal flavors, but they’re most intrigued when they appear in new places. It’s a simple way to add premium appeal without overcomplicating prep.
Infuse cinnamon into meat rubs and marinades
Use leftover gingerbread in place of ladyfingers in tiramisu
Add mint to umami condiments, such as miso or soy, for brightness
Sources: 1. Technomic, Season’s Eatings (2025/2026)
During the holidays, on-the-go consumers demand convenient solutions. Consider holiday meal kits, pre-batched beverages, and take-home desserts to reduce guest stress and boost your revenue.
Of consumers say that, if available, they would be likely to purchase a full, ready-made holiday meal for pickup from a restaurant.1
Say they will use restaurant food for at least part of their holiday meal.1
A timeless and delicious dessert, made with Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin, that captures the essence of autumn. It’s a must-have for Thanksgiving or any occasion.See Recipe
Sources: 1. Technomic, Holiday Foodservice Trends to Watch (2024)
The holidays are about indulgence, comfort, and convenience. Be there with memorable flavors that feel effortless for guests and easy on your staff. Nestlé Professional Solutions brings the ideas, insights, and trusted products to help you win the season.
Festive beverages
Indulgent foods
Comfort classics with a twist
Ready-made holiday meals
