logo
Why Millennials And Gen Z Prefer Cafés Over Traditional Restaurants

Why Millennials And Gen Z Prefer Cafés Over Traditional Restaurants

News185 days ago
Last Updated:
Millennials and Gen Z don't just want to eat out, they want to belong somewhere. And cafés, with their warm lights, good brews, and open vibes, offer just that.
The café culture in India is brewing hotter than ever, and it's not just about coffee anymore. For Millennials and Gen Z, cafés have become the new cultural hubs, spaces where lifestyle, work, creativity, and connection seamlessly blend. From aesthetically pleasing interiors to flexible workspaces and innovative menus, cafés are replacing the formality of traditional restaurants with an experience-first approach that resonates deeply with today's youth.
'Millennials and Gen Z have redefined dining culture, increasingly favoring cafés over traditional restaurants," says Rajat Jaiswal, Pilot and Co-founder, WAB Cafe and Keydroid. 'This shift is driven by lifestyle choices, social habits, and evolving work patterns that align more with the casual and versatile nature of cafés."
He highlights that the informal, flexible vibe of cafés makes them ideal for everything from solo productivity to social catch-ups. With simpler, more affordable menus and photogenic spaces that suit their social media habits, cafés are exactly what younger consumers are looking for. 'It's more than just food, it's an experience," he adds.
The Rise of Café-First Hospitality
Rajan Sethi, Managing Director, Bright Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., echoes this sentiment, having witnessed the evolution firsthand. 'Over the past decade, we have seen a clear shift in how Millennials and Gen Z approach dining, and cafés have naturally become the spaces they gravitate toward," he says.
Sethi's brands, like Espressos Anyday and OMO – Soul Food Community, are built around this café-first mindset. 'With Espressos Anyday, we've created an everyday café that feels like your own corner in the city," he explains. 'Whether you're working solo or brainstorming with friends, the vibe is intentionally casual yet inspiring."
Meanwhile, OMO takes it a step further by merging food and philosophy. 'OMO is for people who want their dining spaces to align with their values—offering grounding meals, seasonal ingredients, and a calm, conscious atmosphere," Sethi says. The rise of the 'laptop and latte" work culture, particularly in metros like Delhi and Gurgaon, has made cafés a modern-day second home and office.
Social, Sensory, Shareable
What's also redefining this space is the experiential element. According to Rajat Agarwal, CEO of Barista Coffee, 'At Barista, coffee is more than just a beverage, it's a lifestyle and cultural experience, especially for Millennials and Gen Z." He points out that these generations crave connection, ambiance, and self-expression. Barista caters to this demand with curated offerings like Coffee Bubble Tea, Iced Tiramisu Latte, and live brewing sessions, trendy, flavorful, and highly Instagrammable.
'Through experiential marketing, playful menus, and community-driven spaces, we've made Barista a go-to destination where coffee culture meets contemporary lifestyle," Agarwal says. It's not about fancy dining, but about engaging environments that balance affordability with innovation.
A Safe, Creative, Comfortable Space
Shreya Ghai, owner, Bean & Coffee Kitchen, beautifully sums up the emotional value cafés offer: 'For Millennials and Gen Z, a café isn't just a place to eat or drink, it's an extension of their lifestyle. It's where work happens, friendships grow, passions are explored, and everyday moments become memorable."
She emphasizes that what people seek today is comfort without formality, creativity without judgment, and connection without pressure. 'It's about being surrounded by warm lights, familiar faces, and the quiet hum of inspiration," Ghai shares. 'At Bean & Coffee Kitchen, the stories shared at every table are as important as the food on it."
The Bottom Line
What we're witnessing is not just a shift in dining preferences but a broader cultural evolution. Cafés have emerged as the modern-day living rooms, creative studios, and informal workspaces for younger generations. They combine aesthetics, affordability, flexibility, and community, qualities that traditional restaurants often lack.
In short, Millennials and Gen Z don't just want to eat out, they want to belong somewhere. And cafés, with their warm lights, good brews, and open vibes, offer just that.
view comments
First Published:
July 20, 2025, 16:28 IST
News lifestyle » food Why Millennials And Gen Z Prefer Cafés Over Traditional Restaurants
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Only 14% of Americans use AI shoppers despite growing awareness: Study
Only 14% of Americans use AI shoppers despite growing awareness: Study

Fibre2Fashion

time3 hours ago

  • Fibre2Fashion

Only 14% of Americans use AI shoppers despite growing awareness: Study

Despite increasing awareness, AI shopping assistants have yet to achieve widespread adoption in the US. While 43 per cent of Americans are aware of these tools, only 14 per cent have used them. Usage is highest among Gen Z (24 per cent) and parents of children under 18 (21 per cent), whereas just 7 per cent of baby boomers have tried them, according to a new YouGov study. For current users, key benefits include getting answers to product questions (44 per cent), finding specific items (41 per cent), and locating the best deals (34 per cent). For non-users who are open to trying AI, the most appealing features are price comparisons (67 per cent), evaluating similar products (56 per cent), and accessing product information (55 per cent). However, trust is a major barrier. Forty-one per cent of Americans say they do not trust AI shopping assistants at all, and only 13 per cent mostly or completely trust them—compared to 53 per cent who trust personal recommendations. Privacy concerns, a preference for human assistance, and fears of upselling further fuel scepticism. AI shopping assistants remain underused in the US despite 43 per cent awareness, with only 14 per cent having tried them. Gen Z and parents show the highest adoption. Users seek answers, deals, and product info, but trust remains low due to privacy concerns and scepticism. Interest is strongest in clothing, electronics, and groceries. Wider adoption hinges on building trust and proving real value. When it comes to shopping categories, consumers are most open to using AI for clothing and accessories (20 per cent), consumer electronics (21 per cent), groceries and household essentials (19 per cent), and travel planning (18 per cent). Interest is much lower for purchases involving finances, vehicles, or pet care. Retailers such as Walmart and Amazon are already deploying AI tools like Sparky and Rufus to improve customer experience. Yet, the study highlights that broader adoption depends on demonstrating genuine value, safeguarding data, and rebuilding trust—especially among more cautious consumers. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)

From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls
From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls

Economic Times

time4 hours ago

  • Economic Times

From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT • Focus on investing, not trading: Trading may look glamorous on social media, but long-term wealth is created through disciplined investing. Do your research: Don't blindly follow influencers. Understand the business before putting money into it. Seek guidance if needed: 'If you don't have the time or expertise, reach out to a mutual fund distributor or a registered investment advisor. There's no shame in taking help,' Shah adds. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT India's Gen Z is rapidly reshaping the investment landscape—armed with technology, confidence, and while their strengths are undeniable, Nilesh Shah , Managing Director of Kotak Mahindra AMC in an interview for 'The Golden Thumb Rule', offers a nuanced message: stay smart, avoid shortcuts, and always focus on the fundamentals.'I've met some very, very smart Gen Z investors who honestly make me feel ashamed of my own knowledge,' Shah admits candidly. 'They are using technology brilliantly to analyze data, track companies, and process information far faster than we ever could. These young investors will become legends someday.'But there's a flip side to this enthusiasm. According to Shah, many Gen Z individuals are also prone to overconfidence, often relying on social media hype, unverified WhatsApp tips, or even falling for AI-generated deepfake videos that falsely portray investment advice from known personalities. 'This kind of gullibility is dangerous,' he advice is clear and practical:He also touches on changing attitudes toward money. 'This generation is far more confident about the future,' Shah observes. 'For me, taking a housing loan was a big decision. But my daughters would probably take it in a snap if needed.' While that confidence is admirable, it also results in some financial carelessness.'Living off credit cards, indulging in instant gratification, copying investing styles seen online—these are habits that can cause long-term harm.'In closing, Shah offers a heartfelt reminder: 'Apart from your parents, no one truly cares about your financial well-being. Learn from others' mistakes. Why go through pain when wisdom is available for free?': Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)

From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls
From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls

Time of India

time4 hours ago

  • Time of India

From WhatsApp tips to deepfakes: Nilesh Shah warns Gen Z on investment pitfalls

India's Gen Z is rapidly reshaping the investment landscape—armed with technology, confidence, and ambition. But while their strengths are undeniable, Nilesh Shah , Managing Director of Kotak Mahindra AMC in an interview for 'The Golden Thumb Rule', offers a nuanced message: stay smart, avoid shortcuts, and always focus on the fundamentals. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category MBA PGDM Cybersecurity Project Management Digital Marketing Data Analytics Data Science Artificial Intelligence Management Public Policy Degree Leadership Design Thinking Others healthcare Operations Management Technology Finance Product Management CXO Data Science MCA others Skills you'll gain: Financial Management Team Leadership & Collaboration Financial Reporting & Analysis Advocacy Strategies for Leadership Duration: 18 Months UMass Global Master of Business Administration (MBA) Starts on May 13, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Analytical Skills Financial Literacy Leadership and Management Skills Strategic Thinking Duration: 24 Months Vellore Institute of Technology VIT Online MBA Starts on Aug 14, 2024 Get Details by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo 'I've met some very, very smart Gen Z investors who honestly make me feel ashamed of my own knowledge,' Shah admits candidly. 'They are using technology brilliantly to analyze data, track companies, and process information far faster than we ever could. These young investors will become legends someday.' Also Read : The Golden Thumb Rule: 10-second reels won't build wealth; 10-year investing will, says Nilesh Shah But there's a flip side to this enthusiasm. According to Shah, many Gen Z individuals are also prone to overconfidence, often relying on social media hype, unverified WhatsApp tips, or even falling for AI-generated deepfake videos that falsely portray investment advice from known personalities. 'This kind of gullibility is dangerous,' he warns. Live Events Shah's advice is clear and practical: • Focus on investing, not trading: Trading may look glamorous on social media, but long-term wealth is created through disciplined investing. Do your research: Don't blindly follow influencers. Understand the business before putting money into it. Seek guidance if needed: 'If you don't have the time or expertise, reach out to a mutual fund distributor or a registered investment advisor. There's no shame in taking help,' Shah adds. He also touches on changing attitudes toward money. 'This generation is far more confident about the future,' Shah observes. 'For me, taking a housing loan was a big decision. But my daughters would probably take it in a snap if needed.' While that confidence is admirable, it also results in some financial carelessness. 'Living off credit cards, indulging in instant gratification, copying investing styles seen online—these are habits that can cause long-term harm.' In closing, Shah offers a heartfelt reminder: 'Apart from your parents, no one truly cares about your financial well-being. Learn from others' mistakes. Why go through pain when wisdom is available for free?' ( Disclaimer : Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store