Many people within the United States enjoy the fine dining experience. Within the past year, for example, fine-dining visits increased by three percent. This means that thousands, and perhaps millions, of Americans are enjoying meals at upscale restaurants throughout the country.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that when households have incomes of $100,000 or more, they tend to spend more money for meals away from home. Whether they’re enjoying breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner at various types of dining establishments, the BLS reports that households within higher income brackets are responsible for 36% of the country’s overall spending for food away from home. While some fine dining establishments may be more expensive than others, the average per person cost for a nice meal is $28.65.
When Americans dine outside the home at upscale restaurants, they may already be familiar with true leaves microgreens and edible flowers. These provide a delicious addition to a variety of main courses, side dishes, and desserts. For those individuals that may not be familiar with true leaves microgreens and edible flowers, these specialty produce items have been available for about 20 to 30 years.
There are, for example, approximately 100 types of garden flowers that are edible as well as palatable. Edible flowers can be added to salads and sandwiches as well as steeped for teas. While edible flowers are crystallized to adorn cupcakes, layer cakes, and other gourmet desserts, these flowers are not just for decorative purposes. Common types of edible flowers that are used in a variety of desserts include lavender blossoms, rose petals, and violas.
Adults and children have slightly different food presentation preferences, particularly when they dine outside the home. Children, for example, tend to prefer six different colors of food and seven food components. Adults, on the other hand, tend to prefer three different colors and components. When microgreens and edible flowers are added to appetizers, salads, soups, main courses, side dishes, and desserts, they can expand the palate and provide these different colors and food components. Once someone has experienced the variety of microgreens and edible flowers, they are more likely to notice them on menus and in specialty produce stores.