Food @ the click of a button
FROM QUICK SERVICE
RESTAURANTS TO ONLINE DELIVERY SERVICES AND APPS, THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPTIONS
AVAILABLE FOR THE HUNGRY CONSUMER LOOKING FOR A QUICK, WHOLESOME AND SATISFYING
MEAL
With changing times and arising demands, a variety of
business models are being introduced to cater to the evolving needs of the
consumer. Gone are the days when you’d need to wait at least an hour to get
your hands on a tasty and wholesome meal. Why, now you can even eat a meal from
your favourite restaurant in the comfort of your home. Thanks to technological
developments and new restaurant models that are cropping up at every corner.
Here’s a look at prominent trends that are shaping the food industry at the
moment.
FOOD ON-THE-GO
Quick service restaurants (QSR) are creating quite a
buzz in the food industry attracting customers of all ages, whether students or
professionals. Aimed at offering quick, healthy and wholesome meals, these
offer an array of delicacies such as sandwiches, burgers, rolls, wraps and even
the humble vada pav, all of which score high on taste, quality and
price. Strategically located in the bustling commercial areas and educational
hubs of the city, these eateries enable their customers to grab a quick bite at
affordable rates. And ‘quick’ service doesn’t imply that it’s prepared in a
matter of minutes with little focus on taste and health. Think again because on
offer is a selection of healthy foods as well, such as upma, idlis and dosas that
are a boon for office-goers and youngsters who can grab a satiating meal on the
run. What’s more, these can be customised as per the customer’s requirements as
well.
GET SMART
Online delivery services and food ordering apps are
all the rage at the moment, especially among the tech savvy urban youth with
little or no time to prepare food or step out for a meal. These apps have
revolutionised the way we eat out—without really stepping out. It has also made
life easier as you can conveniently scroll through menus, make your selection
and even pay for your order by way of app, website or even telephone. Whether
it’s Italian, Mughlai, South Indian or even fast food that you’re craving for,
it’s all available. What’s more, all of these can be customised, made to order
and will reach your home piping hot and fresh. That isn’t all, they’ve got
great offers, discounts, cash back facilities and even guarantee to deliver
food within the stipulated time. You can even leave a review or share your
feedback instantly to voice your suggestions and complaints to help them serve
you better. Such apps and services serve well when you have unexpected guests
and no time to prepare an elaborate meal or when you are simply binge-watching
your favourite television show and feel too lazy to cook.
HEALTHY AND WHOLESOME
With a rising number of health concerns, there’s been
a growing tribe of people moving towards healthier options, whether it’s
organic, gluten-free or even vegan and vegetarian. A number of health cafés
have emerged to cater to these specific needs. On offer are low-calorie menus,
flavoured protein shakes, smoothies, salads, soups and multigrain sandwiches,
sour dough breads and granolas which can be tailored to a customer’s
preferences and health concerns. These menus are carefully curated taking
nutritional and dietary concerns into account. They also lay extra emphasis on
the sourcing of ingredients, so you might find organic fruits, vegetables and
other dry ingredients such as cacao sourced from Peru, dark chocolate from
Mexico and saffron from Kashmir.
c-Sherlin.Rajan@timesgroup.com
ET 13JUL18
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