Price is a key factor in Hispanic consumers’ dining decisions, with 76% saying high costs are a barrier to restaurant use. Many view take-out as a treat, driven by the desire to avoid cooking and cleaning. This creates an opportunity for restaurants to offer affordable, convenient options without compromising quality or experience.
While Hispanic consumers consider themselves adventurous in their food choices, many still prefer familiar favorites. Restaurants must balance variety with reliability to meet these preferences, while staying connected to cultural influences. Building authentic, personal connections with Hispanic diners is essential, as word-of-mouth – both positive and negative – greatly influences decisions.
Hispanic consumers are interested in restaurant technology, but there’s a risk of losing brand authenticity, as innovations like delivery apps and automation become more central to the experience. To succeed, restaurants must incorporate tech innovations that enhance the dining experience, while staying true to their values and the sense of connection that Hispanic consumers prioritize.
This report looks at the following areas:
- Market context, demographics and economic conditions impacting Hispanic consumers
- Hispanic consumers’ restaurant use and how it compares to the general population
- Barriers and motivators to ordering from restaurants
- Important factors driving Hispanic consumers’ restaurant decision making
- Use and interest in technology at restaurants
- How a personal connection, community and identity factor into restaurant perceptions
- Marketing strategies for restaurant players and future opportunities
Hispanic consumers seek restaurants that blend affordability, community and modern technology.
Fiona O’Donnell, Senior Director – Lifestyles, Culture & Identity, Multicultural, Travel & Leisure
Market Definitions
This Report analyzes Hispanic consumers’ attitudes, behaviors and perceptions surrounding the restaurant decision making process. “Hispanic” entails anyone who has origins from a Spanish-speaking country.
For the purposes of this Report, Mintel has used the following restaurant definitions.
- Fast casual restaurants – these establishments are characterized by a higher price point than QSRs, though not as high as full service restaurants. Fast casuals do not offer waiter service and may or may not serve alcohol. Examples include Chipotle Mexican Grill, Panera Bread.
- Limited service restaurants – LSRs provide food services and customers usually select and order items and pay before dining. Food/drink may be consumed on the premises, offered as carryout or delivered to the customer’s location. These may also sell alcoholic beverages. LSRs include both fast food and fast casual restaurants.
- Full service restaurants – FSRs have waiter/waitress service and customers order and are served while seated. These may also sell alcoholic beverages and offer carryout services. They include the restaurant segments: family mid-scale, casual dining and fine dining.