December 16, 2025

Yum! Brands Reveals Key Dining Trends for 2026

Louisville, Kentucky, December 16, 2025

Yum! Brands, the company behind KFC and Taco Bell, has launched its 2026 Food Trends Report outlining critical shifts in dining behavior. Key trends include the ‘Me-Me-Me Economy,’ emphasizing individual identities in dining; ‘Choice Therapy,’ focusing on consumer control in meal customization; and ‘Vibe-Mathing,’ highlighting emotional connections in dining choices. This report showcases how modern dining experiences go beyond just food, reflecting personal expression and emotional satisfaction.

Louisville, Kentucky

Yum! Brands’ 2026 Food Trends Report Highlights Emotional and Control Factors Shaping Dining Preferences

Yum! Brands, Inc., the parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and Habit Burger & Grill, has released its inaugural 2026 Food Trends Report, revealing significant shifts in consumer dining behaviors. The report identifies three key trends: the “Me-Me-Me Economy,” “Choice Therapy,” and “Vibe-Mathing,” all emphasizing personalization, control, and emotional satisfaction in dining experiences.

The Me-Me-Me Economy

Consumers are increasingly seeking dining experiences that reflect their individual identities and moods. This trend is evident in the rise of solo dining, which now accounts for 47% of quick-service restaurant occasions, a 52% increase since 2021. Solo diners often opt for personal-size pizzas, with 31% of custom orders made within customer groups of two. Notably, 68% of solo diners choose not to take advantage of deals, indicating a willingness to spend more on self-care meals. Additionally, 24% of solo diners are out to satisfy a craving, highlighting the desire for personalized dining experiences.

Choice Therapy

In response to a chaotic world, consumers are gravitating toward small, sensory decisions that provide emotional grounding. Build-your-own boxes and bundles have become symbols of control, with concepts that allow consumers to create their own meals consistently outperforming convenience-led ideas. For instance, Taco Bell’s Build Your Own Taco offerings generated 72% positive sentiment. Sauces also play a significant role, with consumers stating that sauces are 2.4 times more likely to bring excitement to the everyday compared to other food items. Flavor tweaks, such as customizable spice levels and dipping options, empower consumers to tailor their meals to their preferences.

Vibe-Mathing

Consumers are increasingly making dining choices based on emotional value rather than just logic. The “coolness” of a brand is now the top attribute driving momentum for quick-service restaurant brands, even outranking the craveability of food. Everyday little luxuries, like fries or sweet treats, are gaining traction, with 68% of afternoon snack occasions happening on weekdays. Beverages have emerged as accessible joys, with 43% of specialty beverages purchased standalone without accompanying food, and 61% of specialty beverage occasions including order customizations such as toppings or flavor shots.

These trends underscore a broader shift in consumer behavior, where dining is not merely about sustenance but about personal expression, emotional satisfaction, and a sense of control. Brands that can adapt to these evolving preferences are well-positioned to meet the needs of modern diners.

About Yum! Brands, Inc.

Yum! Brands, Inc., based in Louisville, Kentucky, is the parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and Habit Burger & Grill. With over 62,000 restaurants in more than 155 countries and territories, Yum! Brands has a unique perspective on global food culture and consumer behavior.

FAQ

What are the key trends identified in Yum! Brands’ 2026 Food Trends Report?

The report highlights three key trends: the “Me-Me-Me Economy,” “Choice Therapy,” and “Vibe-Mathing,” all emphasizing personalization, control, and emotional satisfaction in dining experiences.

How has solo dining changed according to the report?

Solo dining now accounts for 47% of quick-service restaurant occasions, a 52% increase since 2021, indicating a significant shift toward individual dining experiences.

What role do sauces play in consumer dining choices?

Sauces are 2.4 times more likely to bring excitement to the everyday compared to other food items, highlighting their importance in enhancing dining experiences.

What is the significance of “Vibe-Mathing” in dining preferences?

“Vibe-Mathing” refers to consumers making dining choices based on emotional value, with the “coolness” of a brand now being the top attribute driving momentum for quick-service restaurant brands.

How does Yum! Brands’ global presence influence its understanding of food trends?

With over 62,000 restaurants in more than 155 countries and territories, Yum! Brands has a unique perspective on global food culture and consumer behavior, providing valuable insights into dining trends.

Key Features of the 2026 Food Trends Report

Trend	Description	Impact
The Me-Me-Me Economy	Shift towards personal expression and autonomy in dining, with solo dining and personalized meals on the rise.	Increased demand for individual dining experiences and customized meal options.
Choice Therapy	Consumers seeking small, sensory decisions to create moments of emotional grounding, such as build-your-own meal options and customizable sauces.	Brands offering customizable options may see higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Vibe-Mathing	Emotional value influencing dining choices, with brand “coolness” and aesthetic appeal becoming significant factors.	Brands focusing on emotional connection and visual appeal may attract a younger, trend-conscious audience.