American Express Co's Resy Report Highlights Dining Trends for 2025

On November 12, 2025, Resy, a digital dining platform backed by American Express, unveiled *The 2025 Resy Retrospective*, an insightful report reflecting on the significant dining trends that characterized the year. At the heart of this year's findings is the theme of connection, as the report illustrates how diners are gravitating towards shared experiences, communal settings, and innovative technologies that enhance their dining outings.

Pablo Rivero, CEO of Resy and Tock, who also serves as Senior Vice President of American Express Global Dining, emphasized the enduring significance of restaurants as spaces for genuine connection. "This year proved that restaurants remain one of the most important spaces for real connection — whether that’s around a communal table, through the warmth of hospitality, or with technology that helps make those experiences even more personal," he stated.

One of the most notable findings from the report is the emergence of the "Table Captain." A survey commissioned by Resy revealed that 72% of diners believe having someone take charge of ordering enhances the dining experience. Interestingly, more than half of Gen Z diners have invited friends specifically for their expertise in curating the meal.

Social connection continues to shape dining choices, with an impressive 94% of diners indicating they are likely to share their meals. Among Gen Z, this figure rises to 97%, showcasing a generational shift towards communal dining.

The report highlights a growing preference for communal dining, particularly among younger diners. A remarkable 90% of Gen Z respondents expressed enjoyment for communal tables, with one in three indicating they had made new friends while dining in this manner.

A noteworthy trend this year is the shift towards earlier dining hours. More patrons are opting to dine between 5 and 6 p.m. instead of the traditional 8–11 p.m. window, with 46% of diners preferring earlier reservations to avoid crowds. This trend helps restaurants manage demand more effectively throughout the evening.

As restaurant technology evolves, integration has become a key focus. American Express and Resy are enhancing their digital ecosystem through a strategic partnership with Toast and new CRM integrations, allowing for streamlined operations and improved hospitality.

With an eye toward the future, Resy’s editorial team has identified several dining concepts poised to make an impact in 2026:

In alignment with these trends, American Express has enhanced its dining benefits for Card Members. The recently relaunched Platinum Card® now includes the Resy Credit, offering eligible members up to $400 back annually on purchases at over 10,000 U.S. Resy restaurants. This initiative underscores American Express’s commitment to enriching the dining experience for its members while supporting the restaurant community.

As dining continues to evolve, the insights from *The 2025 Resy Retrospective* reveal a clear trajectory towards shared experiences and technological integration. With American Express's support, Resy is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of dining, ensuring that restaurants remain a central hub for connection and community.