Published: 29 January 2025
The UK food scene is constantly evolving, with new flavours, ingredients, and culinary innovations being reflected in the way we eat. As we move through 2025, expect to see a mix of nostalgic comfort foods, exciting global influences, and a growing focus on sustainability. Here are some key food trends to look out for this year.
British Artisanal Pasta
Pasta has been a staple in British cupboards for the past 70 years, but in 2025 the pasta scene is witnessing a homegrown revolution. Locally made, high-quality pasta is on the rise and will give the dried Italian varieties a run for their money. This shift supports local agriculture and also offers pasta lovers a fresh and authentic experience. Expect to see unique shapes, flavours, and the use of alternative flours to create depth and nutrition while providing an exciting new experience. Furthermore, pasta isn’t just for lunch and dinner anymore, with select restaurants in the UK now offering pasta for breakfast! Think tagliatelle with bacon and egg, or a breakfast frittata combining sausage meat and leftover fusilli from the night before.
The Pistachio Craze
Pistachios are having a moment, thanks in part to viral sensations like the ‘Dubai chocolate bar,’ which boasts a thick pistachio cream nestled inside smooth milk chocolate. This trend has permeated various culinary creations, from desserts to drinks. Coffee shops are introducing pistachio lattes, while bakeries are experimenting with pistachio croissants, tarts, and biscuits. The nut’s distinctive flavour and vibrant green hue add both richness and a touch of luxury to everyday foods. They are also great for contributing to good heart health, due to their healthy fats and amino acids, and contain antioxidants which reduce free radicals and protect your eyes from deterioration due to ageing.
Korean Cuisine’s Mainstream Moment
Korean food has been growing in popularity for years, and 2025 is the year it fully integrates into British dining culture. Staples like kimchi and gochujang are now readily available in major supermarkets, reflecting the surge in demand. The popularity of Korean food taking a space in UK shops is mostly due to the global ‘Korean Wave,’ encompassing K-pop, films, and television shows, which has piqued interest in Korean culture and its cuisine. The health benefits of fermented foods promote gut health and digestion, and ingredients like garlic and ginger provide anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Health-Conscious Eating Reimagined
More people are turning to food for its health benefits, and consumers are increasingly gravitating towards diets that are both healthy and sustainable. This trend is driven by growing awareness of how diet impacts long-term health, making people more conscious to choose nutrient-dense ingredients that offer tangible benefits. Omega-3-rich ingredients like flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish are known for their ability to support cognitive function, while adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha and maca are being embraced for their stress-reducing and energy-balancing properties. Functional foods are no longer just a niche market—they are being a fundamental part of everyday meals as people look to optimise their health.
Elevated Sandwich Creations
The humble sandwich is getting an upgrade. Dubbed ‘supercharged sandwiches,’ these creations feature inventive fillings, artisanal breads, and global flavour influences. This trend caters to consumers seeking convenient yet indulgent meal options, transforming a simple lunch staple into a culinary delight. Think artisanal breads like rosemary focaccia, turmeric sourdough, and charcoal brioche, packed with unique and bold fillings. Simple classics are reimagined and elevated with gourmet twists, which allows us to indulge in the comfort of a sandwich while experimenting with new flavour combinations.
Innovative Use of Mushrooms
Mushrooms are no longer just a side dish. They’re stepping into the spotlight, and not just as a meat substitute but as a versatile ingredient in many dishes. Their rich umami flavour and versatility make mushrooms a key player in both plant-based and meat-based cooking alike. Expect to see mushroom-based broths, coffee alternatives made from ground mushrooms for a gentle caffeine kick, and even desserts featuring truffle-like notes for a sophisticated twist. Lions Mane, in particular, is gaining fast popularity due to its cognitive benefits.
Social Media-Driven Food Trends
Platforms like TikTok are powerful catalysts for food trends. Dishes and ingredients that go viral often see a surge in popularity and sales. In 2025, expect to see dishes like ‘cloud bread,’ rolled ice cream and unique coffee blends gaining traction. Food aesthetics will be just as important as flavour, with visually stunning dishes dominating social feeds.
Unconventional Fruits and Vegetables
There’s growing interest in unique and exotic produce. Items like red-fleshed kiwis, purple sweet potatoes, and Flavorking plums—noted for their bubblegum-like flavour—are captivating consumers. This trend reflects a desire for novel culinary experiences and a broader palate. With a growing emphasis on biodiversity and sustainable farming, people are becoming more adventurous in their produce choice. These colourful and distinctive varieties not only add visual interest to meals but also offer great health benefits, from antioxidant-rich pigments to increased vitamins and fibre.
Nostalgic British Comfort Foods
Classic British dishes are making a comeback, but with an updated and modern twist. While shepherd’s pie, toad-in-the-hole, and treacle pudding have long been staples in British households, they are now being reimagined with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and refined culinary techniques. This revival isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s also driven by a renewed appreciation for traditional comfort foods and the farm-to-table movement. Think slow-braised lamb in shepherd’s pie, craft sausages in toad-in-the-hole, and innovative fillings or spice blends in treacle pudding. The desire for familiarity in uncertain times, coupled with a push for better quality food, makes this trend a defining feature of British cuisine in 2025.
As 2025 unfolds, these trends will redefine the way we cook, eat, and enjoy food. Whether you’re a home cook or a frequent restaurantgoer, there is plenty to look forward to in the world of British cuisine this year.
The Holker Hall Gardens will be open again to the public from Friday March 21st 2025.