In recent years, a surprising culinary trend has emerged where adults are increasingly turning to children's menus for their dining experiences. Historically, kids' meals were designed for younger palates and smaller appetites, often making adults feel self-conscious about ordering them. However, with rising dining costs and changing preferences, these smaller, simpler meals have become a popular choice for grown-ups. Market research shows that adults are now ordering 28% more kids' meals compared to 2019, driven by factors like budget constraints, portion sizes, and health trends.
The Rise of Adult Kids' Meals: A New Dining Phenomenon
In the bustling world of modern dining, a significant shift is occurring as adults rediscover the charm of kids' meals. In cities across the country, from Orlando to Greensboro, individuals are opting for smaller, more affordable options like burgers, fries, and chicken nuggets. This trend gained momentum in December 2024, when searches for kids' meals peaked on Yelp. Ashley Garrett, a 33-year-old resident of Orlando, exemplifies this movement. She describes herself as a "kids' meal connoisseur" and orders from the children's menu frequently, finding it perfectly suited to her lifestyle. For her, these meals offer a solution to overpaying, overindulging, and dealing with leftovers.
Similarly, C.J. Pearson, a retired special education teacher from North Carolina, has long preferred kids' meals due to their affordability and smaller portions. Growing up in a large family, she finds adult-sized portions wasteful and expensive. The appeal of these meals extends beyond just cost; for some, the inclusion of small prizes or treats adds an element of fun. Fast-food chains have taken notice, with McDonald's experimenting with adult Happy Meals featuring collectible toys and Wendy's introducing themed Halloween meals for grown-ups.
However, not everyone is convinced. Dan Rowe, a restaurant investor based in Arizona, believes that if adults are ordering from the kids' menu, it may signal underlying issues within the restaurant industry. Despite this skepticism, the growing demand for smaller, cheaper meals has put fast-food chains on high alert, prompting them to innovate and cater to this new market.
From a journalist's perspective, this trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, driven by economic pressures and changing attitudes towards food. It highlights the evolving relationship between dining out and personal values, suggesting that simplicity and affordability are becoming increasingly important considerations for today's diners. As this trend continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how restaurants adapt to meet the needs of both young and old customers alike.