Restaurants' Top Menu Trend in 2025: Value Continues to Lead

In 2025, 'value' remained the key focus for restaurants as consumers, especially those with lower incomes, cut back on dining out due to economic pressures. McDonald's and other chains intensified their value offerings, with McDonald's extending its $5 value meal and other promotions to attract budget-conscious diners. While fast-casual chains like Chipotle and Sweetgreen avoided deep discounts, some casual-dining chains like Chili's and Olive Garden successfully leveraged value strategies to boost sales. The industry anticipates continued value-driven competition in 2026 amid economic uncertainties and rising costs, with no signs of a significant shift away from value-focused strategies.