The way restaurants are designed says a lot about their personality. Customers don’t just want good food—they want an experience. The design, atmosphere, and even the little details play a huge role in setting the tone. Heading into 2025, restaurant design trends are all about blending creativity with practicality to give diners spaces they’ll remember. Let’s take a look at what’s shaping up to be the key trends of the year.
1. Restaurant Booths: Comfort That Works
Comfortable seating is always in style, but restaurant booths are taking centre stage in 2025. These versatile seating options are loved by diners for their cozy, semi-private vibe, and restaurateurs appreciate their efficient use of space. Booths can be customised to suit any theme, whether it’s sleek and modern or classic and elegant. Beyond aesthetics, they’re a practical choice for families, small groups, and even business meetings. Investing in booths is more than a design choice—it’s about giving your guests a reason to relax and linger.
2. Eco-Friendly Design Choices
Sustainability is no longer a trend—it’s a must. In 2025, more restaurants are weaving eco-friendly practices into their designs. From reclaimed wood furniture to recycled metal accents, the focus is on using materials with a lower environmental impact. Greenery is also a big part of this, with living plant walls, indoor herb gardens, and even suspended plants making spaces feel alive and refreshing. Sustainability isn’t just about materials either—energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and responsible waste management are key features of this approach.
3. Lighting That Does More
Lighting in restaurants isn’t just functional—it creates a mood. This year, lighting designs are taking on a more intentional, layered approach. It’s all about balancing style with utility. You’ll see dramatic pendant lights paired with softer ambient lighting to set a mood, or even LED strips subtly highlighting architectural features. Many restaurants are also leaning into dynamic lighting that changes throughout the day. Warm, inviting light for evening meals and brighter tones for daytime dining help create the perfect atmosphere for every moment.
4. Technology Everywhere
From how we order to how we pay, technology has become a big part of dining out. But it’s also finding its way into restaurant interiors. Expect to see tables with built-in charging ports, smart lighting systems, and even digital menu displays as standard. Some restaurants are incorporating touch screens where customers can view the menu, play games while they wait, or even customise their orders. The tech doesn’t stop there—interactive displays showing live kitchen feeds or unique digital art are adding that “wow” factor to modern spaces.
5. Open Kitchens: The Show is the Meal
There’s something fascinating about watching a meal come together, and open kitchens tap right into that. This design trend isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about connection. When diners can see the chefs preparing their food, it builds trust and adds a sense of excitement. Many restaurants are leaning into this with bold, industrial design choices—think stainless steel counters, exposed brick, and open flames on display. Paired with features like chef’s tables or interactive cooking stations, this setup gives guests an experience as memorable as the meal itself.
6. Bold Colours and Playful Interiors
Forget the muted greys and whites of recent years—2025 is all about bold, vibrant colours. Restaurants are using striking palettes to create spaces that feel alive. Fast-casual spots might embrace bright reds and oranges, while fine dining venues could lean into rich emeralds, deep blues, or golden yellows for a luxurious effect. But it’s not just about the colours—it’s also about having fun with themes. Whether it’s a tropical escape, a retro throwback, or an ultra-modern space-age design, playful interiors are a big draw for customers who love sharing their experiences online.
7. Spaces That Do More
Restaurants are becoming more than places to eat—they’re hubs for connection, work, and relaxation. To meet these demands, many are incorporating multifunctional spaces. Think private booths for remote workers, lounge areas for casual coffee catch-ups, and larger communal tables for group dining. Modular furniture is also stepping into the spotlight—it’s perfect for venues that need to adapt quickly for events, family dinners, or even work meetings. Restaurants that can flex to fit their customers’ needs are set to thrive in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The trends shaping restaurant design in 2025 are about more than just appearances—they’re about creating an experience that customers won’t forget. From practical seating choices like restaurant booths to bold colour palettes and eco-friendly materials, the focus is on making spaces as inviting and functional as they are stylish. Restaurants that embrace these trends are setting themselves up to stand out, connect with their diners, and keep them coming back for more.
