The 2026 Voice of the Restaurant Industry Survey: How U.S. Restaurants are Handling Inflation, Labor, AI, and Revenue Growth

Despite inflation and labor pressures, restaurant operators remain remarkably confident about their businesses. Toast’s survey of 676 restaurant decision-makers found 91% rate their business health as good or excellent, while improving profitability is the top goal for 37%. To drive revenue, 47% are focused on bringing in more diners and 26% plan to add revenue streams such as catering and online ordering. Nearly half (49%) also expect to increase staffing over the next 12 months.

For sellers, the emphasis on increasing guest demand creates a natural opening to talk about advertising as a growth strategy rather than an expense. Restaurants, bars, cafés, bakeries, caterers and other foodservice businesses may be receptive to campaigns designed to increase traffic, promote catering and online ordering, introduce new offerings and build repeat business — all supporting the industry's priority of getting busier and more profitable.