Toast Inc. Analyzes Shifts in Coffee Consumption in Latest Restaurant Trends Report

On March 11, 2026, Toast Inc. (NYSE: TOST) unveiled its latest Restaurant Trends Report, shedding light on evolving coffee consumption patterns among American consumers. The report utilizes aggregated data from approximately 164,000 restaurant locations on the Toast platform, extending its analysis from January 2024 to December 2025. This comprehensive report aims to highlight emerging trends and shifts in consumer preferences in the U.S. restaurant industry.

The report reveals a notable increase in sales of barista-crafted beverages in 2025. Specifically, the following drinks saw significant year-over-year growth:

This trend indicates that consumers are increasingly willing to pay for handcrafted coffee drinks, potentially opting for quality over quantity.

Conversely, traditional coffee beverages are experiencing a decline:

The data suggests that classic staples like drip coffee and cold brew are losing ground, as consumers shift towards more convenient and premium options.

Interestingly, the report highlights a surge in sales of alternative caffeine sources:

This shift signals a preference for convenient, ready-to-drink beverages among consumers, reflecting a broader trend in the beverage industry.

The report also offers insights into tipping behaviors within the restaurant sector. For Q4 2025:

Delaware continues to lead the nation in tipping with an average of 21.8%, while California remains at the bottom with an average tip of 17.2%. This stability in tipping practices may reflect a consistent dining experience across various restaurant types.

The findings suggest that American consumers are evolving in their coffee-drinking habits. Many are opting for premium, handcrafted drinks that they perceive as a treat, especially in light of rising prices for standard coffee products. This trend could indicate a willingness to indulge in higher-quality beverages when dining out, even as they cut back on more traditional options.

The rising prices of coffee, influenced by factors such as climate and input costs, may be driving consumers to prioritize handcrafted drinks over more basic offerings. This shift could suggest that consumers with higher disposable incomes are less sensitive to price increases and are more likely to indulge when visiting coffee shops.

Toast Inc.'s Restaurant Trends Report offers valuable insights into the changing landscape of coffee consumption in the U.S. The data reveals a clear shift towards premium, barista-crafted beverages while traditional staples face declining sales. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the restaurant industry must adapt to these trends to capture the changing tastes and desires of their patrons. For more detailed insights and to explore the full report, interested parties can access the Restaurant Trends Report on the Toast platform.