How Each Generation Dines in 2025 and What to Expect in 2026

If you work in foodservice you already know that diners behave differently depending on their age group. Anyone on the floor can see the patterns. Each generation walks in with its own expectations around food, service, value and the overall dining experience.

What matters in 2025 is understanding these patterns clearly and planning for the shifts that are coming in 2026. This guide offers a practical look at how Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z are dining right now, and how these habits will influence bookings, spend and loyalty in the year ahead.

Baby Boomers (born 1946 to 1964)

Boomers remain among the strongest restaurant spenders. They dine earlier in the evening, enjoy full meals and appreciate good service that feels calm and confident.

Behaviour in 2025
• Earlier seatings are popular, often between five thirty and seven
• Consistency is valued
• Clear menus and patient service matter
• Staff knowledge is important

Useful figures
Boomers contribute close to one-third of national restaurant revenue. They are more likely than younger guests to return to a venue that makes them feel recognised.

Looking to 2026
• Expect even more interest in early dining as people look for value
• Comfort and accessibility will influence venue choice
• Quality of ingredients will matter more than quantity

Tips for operators
• Consider an early dinner menu
• Keep lighting and sound at comfortable levels
• Focus on simple, honest descriptions and steady service

Generation X (born 1965 to 1980)

Gen X drives a large portion of weeknight trade. They often dine with family and want the experience to be smooth with no complications.

Behaviour in 2025
• Online bookings with instant confirmation are preferred
• Menu flexibility is expected
• Portion sizes influence value perceptions
• They appreciate efficiency and straightforward communication

Useful figures
Families are responsible for about one-third of weeknight dining spend across Australia. Gen X leads midweek takeaway ordering when they choose not to dine in.

Looking to 2026
• Clear communication about wait times will become critical
• Young diners in the family group will have more influence on venue choice
• Transparent pricing will be appreciated

Tips for operators
• Make the booking journey simple
• Keep menus balanced and suitable for mixed ages
• Train staff to handle dietary needs without hesitation

Millennials (born 1981 to 1996)

Millennials want good food, a comfortable atmosphere and a sense of value. They engage strongly with online information and respond to venues that feel genuine.

Behaviour in 2025
• They check a venue online before booking
• They appreciate seasonal menus
• Allergy-safe processes matter
• They enjoy cocktails and specialty drinks

Useful figures
About seven in ten Millennials research a venue before visiting. They are the most active group leaving online reviews, and they respond strongly to menus that explain the food's thought process.

Looking to 2026
• They may dine out slightly less often but will spend more when the occasion feels worthwhile
• Signature items will influence where they book
• They will favour venues that feel authentic and welcoming

Tips for operators
• Keep your website and socials up to date
• Maintain clear allergy procedures
• Give them a dish or drink that feels special without being over the top

Generation Z (born 1997 to 2012)

Gen Z is shaping trends across the industry. They look for places that feel fun, relaxed and affordable.

Behaviour in 2025
• They discover venues through TikTok and Instagram
• They prefer share plates and bold flavours
• They drink less alcohol but enjoy mocktails
• They expect quick service and an easy atmosphere

Useful figures
Six in ten Gen Z diners have visited a venue after seeing it online. They spend less per visit but dine out more often than any other group.

Looking to 2026
• Social media will continue to drive their venue choices
• They will look for engaging and affordable experiences
• Interest in global flavours and plant-based options will grow

Tips for operators
• Keep your social pages current
• Offer strong non alcoholic drink choices
• Consider a rotating special or weekly highlight to encourage return visits

What Operators Should Prepare For in 2026

Value with clarity

Guests across all age groups will want honest portions and clear pricing. They are not always looking for the cheapest option, but they want the experience to feel fair.

Simple and smart menus

Operators will benefit from shorter menus with well-chosen items that travel well across the week.

Confident dietary management

Guests with allergies or specific needs will expect clear communication. This will influence repeat business across all generations.

Faster and cleaner booking processes

Instant confirmation and accurate wait times will matter more than ever.

Experiences that match the moment

Gen Z wants fun, Millennials want meaning, Gen X wants ease, and Boomers want comfort. The venues that respond to these realities will see stronger loyalty and steadier trade.