Marriott International report finds local cuisine leads Asia Pacific dining trends

Marriott International unveiled Future of Food 2027 on October 6, 2026, a report on food and beverage trends across Asia Pacific excluding China. The company said the report draws on conversations with chefs, hospitality experts and regional influencers, along with insights from its properties across the region.

The report describes a shift it calls the rise of place, in which dining moves beyond traditional restaurants into fluid, social formats. Across the region, nearly half of surveyed properties report growing demand for casual venues such as lounges, bars and outdoor settings. In Vietnam, 71% of surveyed properties report growth in bar and lounge dining.

In fine dining, 58% of properties report that average experiences last between 1.5 and 2 hours. In Singapore, 85% of restaurants report an average time of 1.5 hours. Marriott International said restaurants are simplifying menus and adding a la carte options.

The company said 42% of its restaurants and bars surveyed in Asia Pacific excluding China report increased sales of non-alcoholic beverages. It also said 100% of restaurants and bars surveyed in Thailand already use AI in their operations.

Marriott International said it will introduce its APEC Plant-Forward Program across the region in 2027. Petr Raba, vice president of food and beverage for Marriott International in Asia Pacific excluding China, said hotels are becoming cultural storytellers that embed regional talent and locally sourced ingredients into dining.