SOCIAL celebrates nation’s gastronomic heritage and predicts food trends for 2024.

SOCIAL - a cafe and a co-working space opened its 50th outlet and marked the celebration of culinary accomplishment with its diverse tapestry of cuisines. 

On this occasion, Group Executive Chef Shamsul Wahid at Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality, the parent company of SOCIAL shared with us the recipe for SOCIAL’s success and how will the food trend brew in 2024. 

After multiple successful culinary ventures such as Smoke House Deli and Mocha, SOCIAL realized the Indian youth’s growing trends of going out and seeking experiences in F&B that were aligned with global cultural sensibilities. With this insight, SOCIAL, a brand that sits at the confluence of a café and a bar, opened its doors for the first time in 2014 at Church Street in Bengaluru.

Shamsul says, “From the very beginning going hyperlocal has been the essence of SOCIAL’s identity.” SOCIAL’s menu features local dishes from various parts of India to celebrate the country’s culinary diversity and the locality of the communities. The rich tapestry of flavours, spices and cooking techniques across regions has inspired a fusion approach, blending traditional authenticity with innovative twists. 

The Diverse Indian Palate

As the Indian audience exhibits a diverse palate, with a slightly skewed preference towards both traditional Indian cuisine and Indian dishes with a global touch, restaurants need to find the right approach to balance both. While some patrons appreciate the familiarity and authenticity of Indian flavors, others are drawn to the global influence that adds a modern twist to traditional dishes. 'We have also learned that food is one of the most important things that connect people and bring communities together. Our patrons from South Indian cities love the chaats from Delhi, and our patrons in the North equally enjoy the curries of the South,' cites the Chef. Such culinary preferences of food aficionados will define the food trends in the coming years.

Food Trends for 2024

In 2024, we envision a culinary landscape that spotlights sustainable and plant-based cuisines, reflecting a global shift towards conscious dining. Fusion cuisines, marrying diverse flavours and techniques, will continue to captivate diners’ palates. There will also be a resurgence of interest in ancient grains and forgotten recipes, adding a nostalgic touch to contemporary menus. “As the world embraces healthier lifestyles, we are expecting innovative plant-based dishes to steal the spotlight, redefining the culinary experience with evolving tastes and conscientious dining trends," Shamsul on food trends that will define the coming year.