A ‘Bowl’ of Nourishment: What’s Pushing the Growth of ‘Food Bowl’

The idea of the "food bowl" has gained popularity over the last several years for a variety of reasons. First of all, because of their versatility, users can put a variety of items in one handy dish to create a full meal. Second, because they are completely customizable, diners may choose exactly what they want to eat and not eat. Lastly, they give business owners the freedom to experiment with various tastes, textures, and ingredients while maintaining a recognizable format that patrons would feel at ease utilizing. For example, smoothie bowls can be served for breakfast, salad or grain bowls for lunch, and noodle bowls or platter for dinner. Operators have the choice of serving comfort food or healthier options, which have become more and more popular in recent years. 

“Tattva Bar and Cafe offers a diverse selection of food bowls and platters that cater to various dietary preferences. From the refreshing and antioxidant-rich Acai Bowl to the hearty Steel Cut Oats Bowl, each option is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Tattva Bar and Cafe, we understand that every individual has unique preferences. That's why our food bowls and platters are highly customizable,” shared Shashank Shetty, Owner and Director, Tattva Bar and Café.

Commenting on the same, Karan Shah, Owner & Director, Next Door, Bandra pointed, “The food bowl concept has allowed us to expand our menu with diverse and balanced offerings. At Next Door Bandra, we offer a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian bowls such as Dal Moradabadi, Kadai Paneer, Jackfruit Malabar Curry, and more, giving customers a wholesome and fulfilling meal in one bowl. Each bowl is thoughtfully paired with sides like naan, ghee rice, or salad to create a complete dining experience.”
The experts also believed that customization is a key part of the food bowl experience that allows customer to choose between pairings their food right, ensuring that their personal preferences are catered to. This flexibility adds a personal touch, making each bowl feel tailored to the individual’s taste and dietary preferences, enhancing overall satisfaction.

“The food bowl trend continues to gain momentum, it's clear that both consumers and food operators are embracing it for its versatility and customization options. The beauty of food bowls lies in their adaptability, allowing chefs to craft a variety of dishes that cater to diverse tastes, dietary preferences, and cultural influences. Whether it's a vibrant Buddha bowl, a protein-packed poke bowl, or a comforting grain bowl, the possibilities are endless,” said Chef Dheeraj Mathur, Cluster Executive Chef, Radisson Blu, Kaushambi, Delhi NCR.

Customisation is at the centre

Customization plays an important role in the popularity of food bowls. Chefs can mix and match ingredients to create meals that fit nutritional needs and flavour profiles. This personal touch makes food bowls particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking balanced, portion-controlled meals that don't compromise on taste. From an operator's perspective, food bowls offer both versatility and affordability.  “Bowls are gaining traction for their versatility, customization, and appeal to health-conscious consumers. At The Pantry, we focus on delivering healthy balanced meals that cater to different dietary preferences, from protein-packed options to plant-based bowls. The trend is not only about variety but also about providing convenient and wholesome meals that fit today's busy lifestyles,” elaborated Chef Subhash, Corporate Chef, NHPL, The Pantry.

There’s no denying that the food bowl trend is here to stay, especially as customers increasingly seek convenient, customizable, and wholesome meals. Bowls offer a great way to combine flavors and provide a nutritionally balanced meal, all in one package. With the growing demand for flexible and healthy dining options, food bowls will continue to thrive and evolve in the restaurant space.