# Drive-In Culinary Drive-in culinary experiences are popular amidst pandemic restrictions. By [Mishal Omar](https://www.trendhunter.com/MishalO) | Published Mar 11, 2021 | Category: [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/business-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/drivein-culinary ## Key Figures - Trend score: 4.3/10 - Evidence articles: 4 ## What is the Drive-In Culinary trend? **Drive-In Culinary:** Food brands are offering consumers distinct and safe experiences by centering dining into drive-in formats. These dining experiences are being experimented with by everything from fast food chains to fine dining restaurants. ## The consumer insight behind the Drive-In Culinary trend As consumers in North America continue to deal with government and personally imposed restrictions as a result of the ongoing pandemic, they're increasingly seeking out ways to enjoy recreational activities in ways that keep them safe. These individuals turn to brands that are being more creative in designing their customer experiences. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 4 featured examples - Articles from: Sep 4, 2020 to Jan 14, 2021 - Published: Mar 11, 2021 - Patterns: [Redirection](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/redirection) - Megatrends: [Experience](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/experience) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Drive-In Culinary trend ### Drive-In Experiences As social distancing measures and pandemic-related restrictions impact dining and entertainment, drive-in experiences are becoming more popular, offering customers a safe and unique experience in the comfort of their car. ### Digital Ordering With the rise of contactless ordering and payment, many fast-casual chains are adapting their business model to focus on digital ordering and offering drive-thru or drive-in options for quick and easy pickup. ### Outdoor Dining Expanding outdoor dining options in restaurants is becoming a more necessity and opportunity as restrictions limit indoor seating capacity and customers seek a safer, outdoor option. ## What the Drive-In Culinary trend means for industry ### For Food Service Businesses in the food industry can adapt to these trends by offering customers new and innovative drive-in, digital ordering, and outdoor dining experiences. ### For Entertainment Drive-in experiences that combine food and entertainment are growing in popularity as people search for fun and socially distanced ways to spend time with family and friends. ### For Retail Restaurants and other food service providers can explore digital-first ordering and expand their outdoor dining options as consumers continue to look for safe and convenient options when dining out. ## Workshop question How is your brand prioritizing both recreation and safety? ## Trend signals for Drive-In Culinary Trend score 4.3 out of 10, from popularity 70%, activity 50%, freshness 10%. - Popularity: 70% - Activity: 50% - Freshness: 10% ## Examples of the Drive-In Culinary trend 4 featured examples from Sep 4, 2020 to Jan 14, 2021. - [Culinary Drive-In Cinemas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/drive-in-cinemas): The Lexus Culinary Cinema Elevates the Drive-In Movie Experience (Category: Autos) Implication: Drive-in events are becoming more popular in the hospitality industry, allowing movie-goers to enjoy safe, socially distanced communal environments. - [Drive-In Fast-Casual Restaurants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fast-casual-restaurants): Sweetgreen's New Location Has an Outdoor Area with a Concierge (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The restaurant industry can embrace digital-first ordering and explore new formats to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and preferences. - [Touchless Fast Food Restaurants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/burger-king-restaurant-design): The New Burger King Restaurant Design Supports the New Normal (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Fast food industry can explore touchless technology and mobile ordering to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and enhance safety protocols. - [Valentine's Restaurant Drive-Ins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/white-castle-valentines-day): This Year at White Castle, Valentine's Day is Socially Distanced (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The restaurant industry can benefit from the trend of drive-in dining experience, specialized holiday menus and carhop service as they provide opportunities for creative marketing… ## Recent trend clusters - [Autumn Teasers](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/autumn-teasers) (Business) - [Errand Leisure](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/errand-leisure) (Business) - [Category Mashups](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/category-mashups) (Business) - [Automated Upkeep](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/automated-upkeep) (Tech) ## Trending in Business - [Performance-Based Creator Ads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/creator-ad-platforms) - [Repairable Hardshell Jackets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sperro-sv) - [Natural Deodorant Expansions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/target-beauty-studios) - [Mini Beauty Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/little-luxuries-store) All articles: [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business)