# Global Appetizer North American consumers turn to exotic appetizers for experiential appeal. By [Vasiliki Marapas](https://www.trendhunter.com/Vasiliki.Marapas), Research Advisor & Writer | Published Dec 16, 2015 | Category: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/lifestyle-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/global-appetizer ## Key Figures - Trend score: 2.5/10 - Evidence articles: 5 ## What is the Global Appetizer trend? **Global Appetizer:** Consumer taste profiles are not only growing more experimental, but also more global in scope, as spicy and fusion flavors become more popular. When it comes to appetizers, North American consumers are opting for ethnic variations of popular street food. Consuming these foods in appetizer portions not only make them more accessible; it also indicates that common indulgences in other parts of the world are being elevated for upscale enjoyment in a North American context. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 5 featured examples - Articles from: Sep 4, 2015 to Jun 10, 2016 - Published: Dec 16, 2015 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence) - Megatrends: [Hybridization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/hybridization), [Authenticity](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/authenticity), [Many to Many](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/many-to-many) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Themes within the Global Appetizer trend ### Global Flavor Fusion Chefs are experimenting with fusion dishes that combine flavors from multiple parts of the world, creating new and unique taste experiences. ### Vegetarian Substitutes Chefs are exploring new ways to use plant-based ingredients as substitutes for meat, creating unique vegetarian and vegan dishes. ### Elevated Street Food Street food dishes from around the world are being elevated to upscale dining experiences, combining traditional flavors with modern presentation and atmosphere. ## What the Global Appetizer trend means for industry ### For Food and Beverage The food and beverage industry can embrace the global flavor fusion trend by experimenting with new and unique ingredient combinations, creating inventive dishes. ### For Health and Wellness The health and wellness industry can capitalize on the vegetarian substitutes trend by offering plant-based alternatives for traditional meat dishes, promoting healthier eating habits. ### For Hospitality The hospitality industry can leverage the elevated street food trend by creating upscale dining experiences that offer elevated street food dishes, providing unique and memorable dining experiences. ## Workshop question What global influences are inspiring your industry? ## Trend signals for Global Appetizer Trend score 2.5 out of 10, from popularity 36%, activity 30%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 36% - Activity: 30% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Global Appetizer trend 5 featured examples from Sep 4, 2015 to Jun 10, 2016. - [Spicy Falafel Bites](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spicy-falafel): These Bite-Sized Falafels are Made from Cauliflower Instead of Chickpeas (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The food and beverage industry can experiment with new recipes and techniques to create innovative cauliflower-based dishes. - [Globally Inclusive Tacos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/falafel-tacos): These Falafel Tacos Celebrate Cultural Influences from Mexico (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Restaurants can create globally-inclusive menus that fuse culinary influences from different parts of the world to offer consumers a unique experience and stand out in a competiti… - [Spicy Chickpea Fritters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chickpea-fritters): This Simple Mediterranean Dish Features Fresh Herbs, Garlic and Turmeric (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Opportunity for companies to create and market plant-based protein alternatives that cater to the growing demand for healthier food options. - [Gourmet Dumpling Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/east-london): East London's Eastern-Themed Menu Caters to an Australian Audience (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Opportunity for restaurants and caterers to introduce gourmet dumpling menus and tap into the growing demand for unique culinary experiences. - [Spicy Squash Tacos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/squash-tacos): These Curried Butternut Squash Tacos Fuse Cultural Flavors and Aesthetics (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Innovating recipes and finding new ways to combine different culinary traditions to create exciting new dishes. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Lifestyle - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Multi-Benefit Protein Shakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comes-in-three-flavors) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Accessible Fintech Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chequing-account) All articles: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)