Drink Up: Restaurants Will Spend More on Beverage Innovation in 2026

Restaurants in 2026 are leaning heavily into cold, photogenic, energy-boosting beverages — from refreshers and energy drinks to cold brew and premium teas — as consumer demand for customizable, caffeinated and visually appealing drinks continues to rise.

The rising popularity of chilled, energizing drink options signals where brands can align messages with shifting tastes to capture attention during moments of discovery and indulgence.