Food, Service, and Stories Guests Remember

Food, Service, and Stories Guests Remember

With spring on the horizon, Australian diners are seeking experiences that stay with them long after the meal is over.

Research shows 42% of people are more interested in experiential dining this year compared to last. They are drawn to tasting menus, themed nights, chef collaborations and events that feel unique to their visit.

Great food is essential, but customer service is just as important.

An industry report found 89% of diners are more likely to return if they receive warm, attentive service, while 63% are happy to spend more when the experience feels personal. Every interaction, from the greeting at the door to the final farewell, shapes how guests remember their time with you. In many cases, it is the human connection that turns a good meal into an unforgettable one.

Spending in hospitality remains strong. Australians dined out to the tune of $66.3 billion last year, an increase of 2.5% despite rising costs. That resilience shows people are still willing to pay for occasions that feel special.

Importantly, it is not just big city venues seeing the benefits. Regional operators are increasingly in the spotlight, with more than half of the “Delicious 100” experiences coming from outside major metropolitan areas. From vineyard long lunches to chef-led pub dinners, authenticity and a sense of place are resonating with customers.

The trend towards experiential dining is not about grand gestures that require big budgets. It can be as simple as introducing a seasonal menu with a story behind each dish, hosting an intimate chef’s table once a month, or creating a signature service ritual that guests look forward to. Small touches, such as remembering a guest’s favourite wine or personalising a menu for a special occasion, can have just as much impact as large-scale events.

For operators, the opportunity is clear. Think beyond the plate and look at the entire journey.

Consider how your food, service, and atmosphere work together to create a moment worth remembering.

Give guests something they will talk about, post about, and return for. As the busier months approach, it is the venues combining great food with genuine hospitality and a story worth sharing that will fill their tables and keep them full.