The data is part of OpenTable’s 2027 Dining Trends Report, which also identifies emerging dining hotspots and a growing appetite for everyday dining.
According to OpenTable, dining at UK restaurants that use its reservation system increased by 10% year-on-year in 2026, with booking for groups of six or more increasing by 18% year-on-year. Looking ahead, 65% of Brits expect to dine out just as often or more in 2027.
While London is regarded as the UK foodie hotspot, cities beyond the capital are making their mark. Nottingham recorded an 87% year-over-year increase in dining on OpenTable, followed by Sheffield, up 60%, and Edinburgh, up 22%.
Other insights from the report include the statistic that 62% of Brits admit they have been more interested in a restaurant because reservations felt exclusive, yet 67% would rather dine elsewhere than queue for a table.
In 2025, Brits were willing to queue an average of 29 minutes for a restaurant, but this has dropped this year to diners willing to wait just 22 minutes before making other plans.
The celebration of ‘micro-occasions’ with a meal out has become a trend, with diners citing reunions with friends or family (30%), simply wanting to treat themselves (25%) and receiving good news (20%) as reasons behind a restaurant visit. This trend is set to continue, with over two thirds of diners (68%) expecting to celebrate the smaller everyday moments at restaurants the same or more often in 2027.
Familiarity is also becoming part of the appeal of eating out, particularly among Gen Z diners. Over a third of Gen Z - typically 14 to 29-year-olds - (36%) want to establish themselves as a restaurant regular in 2027, compared to 21% of Brits overall, says OpenTable, wuth convenience (26%), supporting local businesses (23%) and enjoying perks (22%) are among the top reasons why.
Restaurants are increasingly becoming part of a wider experience as well. In 2027, 30% of UK diners say concerts, sporting events and other live entertainment will encourage them to eat out more often, while 27% want to see more experiential dining in 2027.
“The UK’s appetite for dining out shows no signs of slowing down, but what diners want from restaurants is evolving for 2027,” says Sasha Shaker, senior director at OpenTable in the UK and Ireland.
“Whether it’s treating themselves after a small win, enjoying a meal before a gig or returning to a familiar favourite, diners are looking for experiences that feel worthwhile.
“For restaurants, it’s not just about attracting diners through the door, but creating the kind of experience that keeps them coming back.”