What makes ethnic cuisine authentic?

Ethnic cuisine continues to be popular with consumers—about a third (32%) say they would pay more for authentic ethnic dishes. Below are the factors consumers say they consider when determining whether a food or beverage is authentic.

Chefs/cooks have trained in the region of the cuisine

Overall: 51%

18-34: 47%

35 : 53%
 

Presentation is authentic

Overall: 48%

18-34: 47%

35 : 49%
 

Flavors are bold

Overall: 45%

18-34: 51%

35 : 43%
 

Restaurant specifically says the food is authentic

Overall: 43%

18-34: 33%

35 : 47%
 

Ingredients are imported from the region of the cuisine

Overall: 42%

18-34: 40%

35 : 42%
 

Restaurant ambiance/decor represents the region of the cuisine

Overall: 33%

18-34: 33%

35 : 32%
 

Chef/cooks look like they come from the region of the cuisine

Overall: 30%

18-34: 33%

35 : 29%
 

Staff looks like they come from the region of the cuisine

Overall: 22%

18-34: 27%

35 : 20%
 

Restaurant’s music is from the region of the cuisine

Overall: 22%

18-34: 32%

35 : 18%
 

Source: Technomic 2018 Ethnic Food & Beverage Consumer Trend Report

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