Choosing the right type of restaurant is one of the most important decisions for aspiring food entrepreneurs. The restaurant type you choose directly impacts your menu, pricing, customer experience, staffing, and overall business model.

Defining your restaurant type early on helps you align with the right audience, streamline operations, and lay the groundwork for long-term success in today’s competitive foodservice industry.

This complete guide explores 30 types of restaurants to help you find the best fit for your vision, market, and budget. You’ll discover real-world examples, defining characteristics, and actionable insights to guide your planning.

How Restaurant Types Are Determined

Restaurant types are typically defined by a mix of the following factors:

Cuisine and menu focus
Service style (e.g., full service, counter service, self-serve)
Pricing and target demographic
Dining experience and ambiance
Location and operating format (e.g., food truck, ghost kitchen, kiosk)

Grasping these elements will help you choose the right restaurant type that aligns with your brand, resources, and customer expectations.

Popular types of restaurants

1. Fine Dining

White tablecloths, crystal glasses, and culinary artistry define fine dining establishments. These high-end restaurants focus on impeccable detail, offering inventive dishes, refined techniques, and expertly curated wine pairings in elegant settings. Experiential venues like SubliMotion in Ibiza push boundaries with multi-sensory dining, making fine dining a luxurious journey worth savoring.

Typical Features:

Multi-course meals with seasonal ingredients and premium delicacies

(e.g., filet mignon, duck confit, truffle risotto)

Chef-curated desserts such as soufflés and mille-feuille
Artisanal breads, amuse-bouches, and palate cleansers between courses
Elegant ambiance featuring crystal glassware, linen napkins, ambient lighting, and soft background music
Highly trained, formally dressed waitstaff and optional sommelier-led wine pairings
Strict dress codes and reservation-only policies
Exquisite plating, minimal menus, and a strong focus on exclusivity and experience

2. Casual Dining

Casual dining restaurants strike a balance between convenience and comfort, offering full table service without the high prices or formalities of fine dining. Popular with families, couples, and groups, these establishments—like Applebee’s—offer familiar favorites in a relaxed, approachable setting.

Typical Features:

Diverse menus with burgers, pastas, steaks, sandwiches, and salads
Shareable appetizers like wings, mozzarella sticks, and nachos
Affordable desserts such as brownies, cheesecake, or ice cream sundaes
Alcoholic beverages including beer, cocktails, and wine
Full table service with friendly staff and moderate pricing

3. Fast Food (QSR)

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are designed for speed, affordability, and mass appeal. Chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King built global empires by serving consistent, craveable food in minutes—making them the go-to option for busy customers seeking low-cost convenience.

Typical Features:

Core menu items

(e.g., burgers, fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, fries, tacos, burritos, hot dogs, and pizza slices)

Breakfast combos with coffee, hash browns, and breakfast sandwiches
Drinks and desserts such as milkshakes, soft drinks, and fountain beverages
Combo deals and value meals to maximize affordability
Counter service, self-ordering kiosks, and drive-thru or curbside pickup
Bright, functional interiors with bold branding and minimal décor
Highly standardized menus with little to no customization
Massive brand recognition and consistent taste across locations

4. Fast Casual

Chipotle pioneered the fast-casual revolution by combining quick service with fresh, customizable meals. These counter-service restaurants bridge fast food speed with casual dining quality, attracting health-conscious consumers willing to pay premium prices for transparent ingredients. Made-to-order bowls, artisan breads, and open kitchens create an elevated experience that’s reshaping the industry landscape.

Typical Features:

Build-your-own bowls, burritos, salads, and wraps
Gourmet burgers, artisan sandwiches, and grain bowls
Plant-based and diet-friendly options (vegan, gluten-free, keto)
House-made drinks like lemonades, kombucha, and craft sodas
Locally sourced, organic, or seasonal ingredients
Counter service with a customizable format and open kitchens
Trendy interiors with modern design, fast Wi-Fi, and charging stations
Digital ordering, app-based rewards, and sustainability-focused packaging
Clear nutrition info and emphasis on transparency and freshness

5. Contemporary Casual

Contemporary casual restaurants blend elevated cuisine with a relaxed, design-forward experience that appeals to millennials and Gen Z. Trendsetters like Providence in Los Angeles serve seasonal, globally inspired dishes in stylish spaces where sustainability and social media appeal go hand in hand.

Typical Features:

Seasonal, farm-to-table entrées and global fusion dishes

(e.g., harissa lamb bowls, truffle ramen)

Craft cocktails, biodynamic wines, and creative mocktails
Stylish, Instagrammable interiors (minimalist, boho-chic, industrial)
Sustainability-focused operations with eco-friendly packaging and zero-waste goals
Open kitchens, chef’s counters, or tableside plating for added engagement
Elevated vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options
Full table service with a laid-back, modern vibe
High social media visibility through photogenic presentation and buzzworthy menu items

6. Buffet Restaurant

Buffet restaurants offer fixed-price, all-you-can-eat dining with a wide range of dishes that appeal to large groups and varied appetites. From traditional chains to upscale destinations like Les Grands Buffets in Narbonne, France, the format promises both abundance and flexibility, perfect for casual celebrations or indulgent outings.

Typical Features:

Rotating food stations with international fare and comfort classics
Carving stations with roast meats, salad bars, and extensive dessert selections
Self-service model with minimal table interaction beyond clearing and drink refills
Large, family-style layouts ideal for groups and casual dining
Focus on variety, value, and volume with affordable set pricing
Modern buffets may emphasize quality, presentation, and seasonal offerings over pure quantity

7. Pop-up Restaurant

Here today, gone next season—pop-up restaurants bring the thrill of the unexpected to the dining world. These temporary, chef-driven ventures turn unconventional spaces into must-visit destinations, blending exclusivity with culinary experimentation. Patio Pizza in London is a strong example, serving wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas from rotating outdoor spaces that draw loyal crowds every season.

Typical Features:

Chef-led seasonal menus with creative flair

(e.g., fusion dishes, upscale street food)

Flexible formats—from shipping containers to rooftops and backyard gardens
Strong reliance on Instagram and social media for discovery and reservations
Collaborations between chefs, mixologists, or artists
Immersive, theme-driven dining setups (live music, interactive plating, curated decor)
Time-limited runs that create urgency and repeat visits among food trend seekers

8. Greasy Spoon / Diner

Retro charm and hearty portions make diners a timeless fixture of American food culture. Known for 24/7 service, bottomless coffee, and no-frills comfort food, these casual spots offer a taste of nostalgia in chrome-lined settings. Tick Tock Diner in New Jersey captures the classic vibe with vinyl booths, neon lights, and an extensive menu served round-the-clock.

Typical Features:

All-day breakfast staples like eggs, pancakes, bacon, and hash browns
Classic American fare (burgers, patty melts, meatloaf, hot dogs, club sandwiches)
Homestyle entrées such as open-faced turkey sandwiches and chicken-fried steak
Desserts and drinks including milkshakes, pies, and bottomless drip coffee
Counter seating with views of the short-order grill
Affordable pricing, large portions, and a come-as-you-are atmosphere
Vintage interiors with jukeboxes, chrome trim, and checkered floors
Community-focused service, often with loyal local regulars

9. Café / Coffee Shop

Cafés blend artisan coffee culture with relaxed, multi-purpose spaces ideal for dining, working, or socializing. These casual yet curated environments serve as modern-day community hubs, offering everything from latte art to light brunch in stylish settings. Queen of Mayfair in London exemplifies the upscale café experience, pairing single-origin brews with refined dishes in a setting that’s both luxurious and inviting.

Typical Features:

Espresso drinks, specialty teas, matcha, cold brews, and alternative milk options
Fresh pastries like croissants, muffins, and bagels
Light fare including avocado toast, quiche, breakfast sandwiches, and paninis
Grab-and-go options such as yogurt parfaits, salads, and energy bars
Plant-based, gluten-free, or locally sourced snacks and baked goods
Counter service with self-seating and casual ordering flow
Outdoor seating, bakery displays, and rotating seasonal specials
Co-working friendly: free WiFi, charging ports, and ambient music
Compact layouts and lower overhead, ideal for independent operators

10. Bistro

Bistros offer a charming blend of French culinary tradition and casual neighborhood warmth. Known for comforting yet refined fare in intimate settings, they balance sophistication with accessibility through seasonal menus and rustic elegance. Bistro Freddie in London channels classic Parisian spirit with a menu rooted in French technique and a vibe that feels both timeless and local.

Typical Features:

Dishes like coq au vin, steak frites, French onion soup, and ratatouille
Charcuterie boards, artisanal sandwiches, and light seasonal salads
Classic desserts such as crème brûlée, tarte Tatin, and chocolate mousse
Curated wine lists, aperitifs, and simple cocktails
Chalkboard menus that rotate with daily or seasonal offerings
Warm, intimate interiors with soft lighting, wooden tables, and vintage touches
Smaller layouts that favor quiet conversation over high-volume dining
Often found in urban neighborhoods or artsy districts with walk-in accessibility

11. Steakhouse

Steakhouses deliver a timeless blend of luxury, tradition, and indulgence, where prime cuts and polished service create a dining experience worthy of milestones and client meetings alike. Known for theatrical tableside touches and rich, flavorful meals, these venues marry culinary precision with old-school charm. Global chains like Morton’s exemplify the classic steakhouse formula, serving expertly aged beef in refined settings from Chicago to Singapore.

Typical Features:

Signature steaks like USDA Prime ribeye, filet mignon, tomahawk, or dry-aged cuts
Surf-and-turf options including lobster tail, scallops, or king crab legs
Upscale sides such as truffle mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and mac & cheese
Starters like shrimp cocktail, beef carpaccio, or oysters on the half shell
Rich desserts: chocolate lava cake, cheesecake, or crème brûlée
Extensive wine lists (especially bold reds), whiskey flights, and craft cocktails
Elegant interiors with leather booths, dim lighting, and wood-paneled walls
Professional, highly trained staff knowledgeable in cuts, temperatures, and wine pairings
Often located in luxury hotels, city centers, or affluent neighborhoods with a strong business clientele

12. Family Style Restaurant

Family-style restaurants bring people together over large, shareable portions that feel like home-cooked meals without the cleanup. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and group outings, these venues prioritize comfort, conversation, and crowd-pleasing food. Buca di Beppo, with locations across the U.S., exemplifies the concept, serving giant bowls of spaghetti, classic Italian-American dishes, and a warm, boisterous atmosphere ideal for making memories.

Typical Features:

Shareable mains like fried chicken, spaghetti and meatballs, baked ziti, or pot roast
Sides including garlic bread, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob
Appetizer platters with mozzarella sticks, nachos, and soup or salad bowls
Desserts designed for groups—brownie platters, apple pie, birthday cakes, or ice cream sundaes
Kid-friendly meals: chicken fingers, mini burgers, grilled cheese, and fun dessert options
Family meal bundles or combo deals for affordability
Large booths or banquet-style tables for group seating
Courses served all at once or in waves for communal dining
Laid-back, welcoming vibe with crayons, high chairs, and kids-eat-free promotions
Often found in suburban areas, shopping centers, or near schools and churches

13. Sushi Bar

Sushi bars combine craftsmanship and calm, where chefs turn premium seafood into bite-sized art. Whether it’s a casual lunch spot or a refined omakase experience, the appeal lies in seasonal ingredients, precision techniques, and intimate counter service. Uchi in London captures this perfectly, blending Japanese tradition with serene design and elevated flavor.

Typical Features:

Nigiri (fish over rice), sashimi (raw fish without rice), maki rolls, and hand rolls
Omakase tasting menus where chefs curate courses based on seasonal availability
Small plates like edamame, miso soup, tempura, and seaweed salad
Beverages such as sake, green tea, and Japanese whisky
Front-row counter seating offering direct interaction with sushi chefs
Minimalist, often wood-accented interiors inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics
Focus on top-tier seafood, often flown in from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market
Atmosphere ranges from casual grab-and-go sushi to refined multi-course dining experiences

14. BBQ Restaurant

BBQ restaurants are all about slow-smoked meats, bold regional flavors, and casual comfort. From Texas brisket to Carolina pulled pork, these smokehouses deliver hearty portions and craveable sides in laid-back settings. Bliss Bite in London modernizes the Southern BBQ tradition with high-quality British meats, urban-rustic interiors, and refined smoking techniques.

Typical Features:

Smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, burnt ends, BBQ chicken, sausages, beef short ribs, and turkey legs
Classic sides such as mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread, and collard greens
Variety of regional sauces: vinegar-based (Carolina), molasses-sweet (Kansas City), mustard-forward (South Carolina), and dry rubs (Memphis)
Casual, often rustic interiors with wood paneling, picnic tables, metal trays, and butcher paper service
Outdoor smokers, visible pits, or open kitchens that showcase the cooking process
Service formats range from self-serve counters with sauce stations to full-service joints offering whiskey, bourbon, or craft beer pairings
Appeals to families, meat lovers, and anyone seeking bold flavors and communal, comfort-driven dining

15. Tapas Bar

Tapas bars celebrate Spain’s social dining culture with small, shareable plates and lively conversation. Diners enjoy a range of bold Mediterranean flavors in vibrant, casual settings that invite lingering and experimentation. José Tapas Bar channels authentic Andalusian charm with chalkboard specials, counter seating, and seasonal Spanish wines.

Typical Features:

Wide variety of small plates including patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, chorizo, tortilla Española, gambas al ajillo, grilled octopus, and manchego cheese
Modern fusion tapas like Korean pork sliders, truffle arancini, ceviche spoons, and tempura prawns
Drinks such as sangria, Spanish wines, vermouth, sherry, and gin & tonic variations
Casual, energetic ambiance with intimate tables, mood lighting, and often live music or open kitchens
Encourages group dining and sharing, ideal for foodies and social gatherings
Flexible menus that support variety, spontaneity, and seasonal experimentation
Often located in urban centers, art districts, or nightlife hubs where communal dining thrives

16. Rotisserie Restaurant

Rotisserie restaurants specialize in slow-roasted meats with crispy skin and juicy interiors, offering a flavorful yet healthier alternative to fried fare. Visible spit-roasting adds a touch of culinary theater, making these casual spots appealing for both dine-in and takeaway. Cocotte has helped popularize the modern rotisserie trend with its herb-marinated, free-range chickens served alongside wholesome sides in a cozy, rustic setting.

Typical Features:

Signature rotisserie chicken served whole, halved, or in quarters
Occasional lamb or pork rotisserie offerings
Sides like roasted potatoes, ratatouille, green beans, quinoa salads, and coleslaw
Sauces including garlic aioli, spicy harissa, herbed yogurt, and mustard vinaigrette
Light, European-style desserts such as fruit tarts, mousse, or sorbet
Open kitchens or visible ovens enhance transparency and guest experience
Casual, rustic ambiance with wood and tile décor, often styled like a countryside bistro
Popular for families, health-conscious eaters, and takeaway customers
Common emphasis on organic, ethically sourced, or free-range meats
Combo meals, family packs, and seasonal specials are often featured on the menu

17. Noodle Bar

Noodle bars offer fast-casual access to Asia’s most beloved comfort foods—rich broths, springy noodles, and bold, customizable toppings. These lively spots blend speed with craft, making them perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners. Chopstix Noodle Bar, with locations across the UK and Ireland, captures this spirit through its mix of pan-Asian dishes served in a sleek, modern setting.

Typical Features:

Diverse noodle styles: Japanese ramen, Vietnamese pho, Thai options, Chinese dishes, Korean specialties
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options often available
Open kitchens or counters where guests can watch noodle assembly
Fast, counter-style service with artisan presentation
Casual, contemporary vibe—often with industrial or minimalist décor and communal seating
Popular with solo diners, students, and professionals on lunch breaks
Drink offerings may include bubble tea, matcha, sake, or craft beer

18. Dessert Café

Dessert cafés specialize in indulgence, offering artfully crafted sweets, decadent drinks, and photo-worthy presentations that appeal to both the palate and the camera. These spots double as social hubs for celebrations and late-night cravings. Krave Dessert Café in Northwood exemplifies the trend, with wide varieties of sundaes, puddings, gelato and an interior designed for maximum Instagram impact.

Typical Features:

Artisan pastries like éclairs, fruit tarts, mille-feuille, and buttery croissants
Signature cakes and entremets including basque cheesecake, mousse cakes, and opera cake
Artisanal ice cream and gelato in creative flavors such as yuzu, matcha, or black sesame
Asian-inspired sweets like Japanese mochi, Korean bingsu, and bubble waffles
Made-to-order desserts like molten chocolate cake, soufflés, and flambéed crêpes
Specialty drinks including hand-poured coffee, loose-leaf teas, hot chocolate, and mocktails
Highly visual dishes with intricate plating and decorative flourishes designed for social media sharing
Customizable options like build-your-own sundaes or layered cakes
Vibes range from cozy and romantic to playful and neon-lit, encouraging relaxed linger time
Often located in busy shopping areas, cultural hubs, or near nightlife zones for post-dinner appeal

19. Gastropub

Gastropubs fuse traditional pub culture with elevated comfort food and curated drink menus, offering a casual yet refined setting for both meals and socializing. These spots appeal to locals and tourists alike with hearty dishes, craft beverages, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. A standout example is The Harwood Arms in London, which merges classic British fare with precision in a relaxed, pub-like atmosphere.

Typical Features:

Classic British dishes such as fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, steak & ale pie, and Sunday roasts with Yorkshire pudding
Modern pub fare like gourmet burgers topped with cheddar or Stilton, sausage and mash with onion gravy
Extensive drink menus with local ales, craft beers, ciders, whiskey flights, and signature gin & tonics
Warm, cozy interiors featuring wood beams, fireplaces, vintage signage, or exposed brick
Table and bar service with a casual, community-driven atmosphere
Social activities like pub quizzes, sports screenings, darts nights, and occasional live music
Menus often emphasize seasonal ingredients and elevated presentation
Popular in walkable neighborhoods, near parks, historic districts, or village-style high streets
Ideal for everything from casual lunches to date nights and group gatherings over drinks

20. Cafeteria

Cafeterias offer quick, affordable meals through self-service lines that emphasize variety and convenience. Often found in institutional settings but also embraced by standalone venues, they appeal to diners seeking familiar comfort foods without the wait. A classic example is Piccadilly in Texas, known for its value-driven menu, rotating comfort dishes, and family-friendly setup.

Typical Features:

Self-service tray lines with visible food stations behind sneeze guards
Comfort food staples like mashed potatoes, green beans, meatloaf, and roast beef
Made-to-order options such as omelets, waffles, or carved meats
Rotating soups, pasta dishes, hot entrées, and sides
Self-serve salad bars and dessert sections with pies, gelatin, and pudding
Grab-and-go items like fruit cups, snack boxes, and yogurt parfaits
Beverage stations offering coffee, tea, milk, and fountain sodas
Efficient layout designed for high-volume turnover and short mealtimes
Often features themed sections like grill, deli, bakery, or international cuisine
Popular in schools, hospitals, offices—and increasingly in retro diners or nostalgic urban spots
Favored by budget-conscious diners, seniors, families, and those seeking balanced, customizable meals

21. Restobar

Restobars blur the line between restaurant and bar, offering elevated food menus in vibrant, cocktail-forward settings. These hybrid venues attract social diners with shareable plates, curated drinks, and a nightlife vibe that extends into dinner service. A standout example is Che Restobar in Ontario, which blends Argentine flavors with bold cocktails and a sleek, contemporary atmosphere.

Typical Features:

Fusion or elevated small plates designed for sharing

(e.g., tuna tartare, empanadas, grilled prawns, truffle fries)

International or modern cuisine with seasonal, chef-driven menus
Craft cocktails, wines, house-made infusions, and mocktails
Bar seating alongside dining tables, often with an open kitchen or chef’s counter
Ambient lighting, upbeat music, and stylish, often industrial or lounge-inspired interiors
Appeals to urban professionals, date-night diners, and groups seeking a sociable dining-drinks hybrid
Weekend brunches, DJ nights, or late-night service are common features
Popular in city centers, art districts, or trend-forward neighborhoods with nightlife crossover
Ideal for venues that prioritize vibe and presentation without compromising on food quality

22. Pizzeria

Pizzerias specialize in handcrafted pies served fresh from the oven, ranging from traditional Neapolitan styles to creative, globally inspired toppings. Loved for their casual vibe, quick turnaround, and wide appeal, these establishments attract everyone from families to late-night crowds. A standout example is Pizza Pilgrims in London, known for its chewy wood-fired crusts, playful toppings, and street market roots.

Typical Features:

Classic pizza styles: Neapolitan (thin, blistered crust), New York-style (foldable slices), Sicilian (thick and square), and Roman (crispy, thin crust)
Signature pies with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, basil, pepperoni, or regional ingredients like nduja, taleggio, or anchovies
Creative options like truffle mushroom, vegan cheese, white pizzas, or dessert pizzas with Nutella or mascarpone
Sides: garlic knots, meatballs, arancini, antipasti, and mixed salads
Drinks: Italian sodas, craft beer, natural wine, or house cocktails
Casual, family-friendly interiors with communal tables, open kitchens, and pizza ovens as the focal point
Popular for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery—often with combo deals or by-the-slice service
Located in high-footfall areas like high streets, food halls, or near schools and offices
Appeals to students, families, tourists, and anyone craving comfort food with a fast-casual twist

23. Seafood Restaurant

Seafood restaurants showcase ocean-to-table freshness through seasonal catch, coastal flavors, and a variety of global preparations. From raw bars to grilled whole fish, these venues appeal to diners seeking light, flavorful, and often healthy meals in breezy, beach-inspired settings. A standout example is La Cueva del Mar in San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its casual Caribbean vibe, fresh local seafood, and laid-back charm.

Typical Features:

Menu highlights: grilled red snapper, fish tacos, shrimp mofongo, seafood paella, octopus salad, garlic butter lobster
Raw bar offerings: oysters, ceviche, conch salad, and chilled shrimp cocktail
Sustainable or locally caught seafood is often emphasized, especially in island or coastal settings
Pairings: tropical cocktails (piña coladas, mojitos), local beers, sangria, or citrus-forward white wines
Decor: nautical or beach-themed with vibrant colors, open-air seating, and rustic wood or tile accents
Popular with tourists, families, and locals for weekend dining, happy hours, and group gatherings
Atmosphere ranges from breezy and casual to upscale coastal chic, depending on the format

24. Vegan Restaurant

Vegan restaurants center plant-based cuisine without compromising flavor, creativity, or satisfaction. These establishments attract health-conscious eaters, ethical consumers, and curious omnivores by reimagining comfort food and global favorites with entirely animal-free ingredients. A standout example is Meat The Vegans in London, known for its bold street food–style menu and urban, laid-back vibe.

Typical Features:

Menu highlights: BBQ jackfruit wraps, seitan kebabs, vegan fried “chicken” sandwiches, loaded fries, and falafel bowls
Creative meat and dairy alternatives: soy- or wheat-based proteins, coconut cheese, almond ricotta, and plant-based mayo
Fusion influences: Caribbean curries, Middle Eastern shawarma, Asian-style bao, or Mexican-style tacos—all made vegan
Beverages: smoothies, cold-pressed juices, oat milk lattes, kombucha, and mocktails
Décor: urban-industrial aesthetic with bold signage, recycled materials, and a casual, inclusive atmosphere
Often emphasize sustainability, zero-waste practices, and community advocacy around animal rights or food justice
Popular with plant-based eaters, flexitarians, and younger diners looking for indulgent, feel-good vegan comfort food

25. Ethnic Restaurant

Ethnic restaurants celebrate the culinary heritage of a particular region or culture, offering traditional recipes, ingredients, and hospitality that create an immersive dining experience. These venues appeal to both diaspora communities and curious diners seeking comfort, nostalgia, or cultural discovery. A standout example is Khamsa in Brixton, which brings the warmth of Algerian home cooking to life through authentic dishes and handcrafted décor.

Typical Features:

Dishes vary widely by culture
Authentic preparation methods rooted in family traditions and regional techniques
House-made sauces, spice blends, or pickles often serve as signature elements
Beverages may include mint tea, tamarind juice, lassi, or rice-based drinks like horchata
Décor often features traditional patterns, textiles, and music to evoke cultural ambiance
Service styles may mirror the home culture—communal platters, shared dishes, or slow, course-based pacing
Owned and operated by members of the cultural community, often telling personal stories through the food
Appeals to guests seeking authenticity, warmth, and meaningful food experiences

26. Deli / Sandwich Shop

Deli and sandwich shops specialize in quick, customizable meals built around high-quality meats, cheeses, and breads. These casual spots blend convenience with flavor, serving everything from towering pastrami sandwiches to modern plant-based wraps. A great example is Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City, famed for its hand-carved sandwiches and old-school counter charm.

Typical Features:

Classic sandwiches like pastrami on rye, Reubens, turkey clubs, BLTs, and Italian subs
Build-your-own options with a range of deli meats, cheeses, spreads, and fresh toppings
Vegetarian and vegan sandwiches featuring grilled veggies, hummus, or tofu
Grab-and-go fridges stocked with bottled drinks, desserts, and cold sides
Décor ranges from vintage deli counters and chalkboard menus to sleek, modern minimalism
Popular for lunch crowds, commuters, and casual dining—many offer online ordering or takeaway

Other types of restaurants and food businesses

27. Ghost Restaurant (Virtual Kitchen)

Born from the boom in app-based dining, ghost restaurants are kitchens without a face—no signage, no tables, no waitstaff, just pure digital hustle. These delivery-only brands live on platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats, serving up hot meals from behind-the-scenes kitchens with maximum efficiency and minimal overhead. It’s Just Wings is a standout success, dishing out saucy wings and curly fries without ever opening a storefront.

Typical Features:

Menus focus on delivery-friendly comfort food: wings, burgers, loaded fries, quesadillas, fried chicken
Optimized for transport—crispy coatings, tamper-proof packaging, minimal sogginess
Often operate multiple virtual brands from the same kitchen
No dine-in service; everything is ordered via delivery apps or branded websites
Located in shared commercial kitchens or back-of-house setups of existing restaurants
Low operating costs: fewer staff, no dining space, lower rent
Agile menu updates based on real-time data and customer feedback
Strong digital branding with catchy names, vibrant visuals, and algorithm-friendly marketing

28. Food Truck

Food trucks are the rock bands of the restaurant world—loud, mobile, experimental, and wildly beloved. These kitchen-on-wheels operations turn parking lots into flavor festivals, slinging gourmet tacos, loaded fries, and fusion bites to lines of hungry fans. A standout example is Eat My Balls in New Jersey, which turns heads (and feeds them) with risqué branding and crave-worthy Sicilian arancini.

Typical Features:

Bold, focused menus: Sicilian arancini, Korean BBQ bowls, smash burgers, banh mi, breakfast burritos
Globally inspired or hyper-niche: Mexican birria, Japanese sandos, Caribbean jerk wraps, plant-based everything
Sweet options from dessert trucks: churros, waffles, crepes, ice cream cookie sandwiches
Portable drinks: craft lemonade, nitro cold brew, matcha lattes, bubble tea
Order through walk-up windows; quick service, festival-style packaging
Low overhead allows for high creativity and agile menu testing
Commonly found at breweries, college campuses, business parks, or weekend markets
Community favorite for late-night eats, lunch breaks, and casual weekend hangs

29. Food Cart

Food carts deliver big flavor from small spaces, offering quick, affordable meals in high-traffic urban areas. These compact vendors are often run by independent owners serving authentic street food that reflects their cultural heritage. So Sarap NYC in Queens, New York, is known for Filipino favorites like grilled meat skewers, silog rice bowls, and turon, drawing both loyal locals and curious newcomers.

Typical Features:

Popular menu items include hot dogs, tacos, gyros, falafel wraps, and satay skewers
Regional specialties such as Mexican elote, Vietnamese bánh mì, Thai spring rolls, and Filipino BBQ
Sweet options like churros, waffles, mini pancakes, and ice cream cups
Drinks may include smoothies, boba tea, or fresh fruit juices
Compact setup with walk-up counter and no seating
Fast service, often located near subway stations, parks, or public plazas
Bold signage or colorful carts help attract passersby
Great for solo operators testing niche food concepts
Affordable pricing and generous portions encourage repeat visits

30. Food Kiosk

Food kiosks are small-scale culinary setups found in malls, airports, and busy public spaces, offering quick, affordable snacks with mass appeal. Their low overhead, fast service, and high visibility make them ideal for testing bold, focused concepts. Popular examples include Potato Corner, known for flavored fries served in cups, and Yo!, which offers sushi and Japanese bites from grab-and-go counters across the UK.

Typical Features:

Compact menus featuring flavored fries, popcorn, pretzels, or roasted nuts
Quick bites such as sushi rolls, rice bowls, bao buns, takoyaki, or samosas
Dessert offerings like mochi, cupcakes, waffles, or rolled ice cream
Beverage options include bubble tea, smoothies, espresso, or cold-pressed juice
Seasonal specials may include hot chocolate in winter or lemonade in summer
Optimized for high foot traffic locations like malls, train stations, and arenas
Limited or no seating, with a focus on speed and portability
Simple kitchen setups suitable for one or two staff members
Visually engaging branding and counter displays to draw in passersby
Great entry point for entrepreneurs seeking low-risk food ventures

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the most popular types of restaurants?

The most popular types of restaurants include:

Fast food restaurants – Affordable, quick, and widely accessible
Casual dining – Sit-down service with a relaxed atmosphere
Cafés and coffee shops – Ideal for light meals and beverages
Food trucks – Mobile, trendy, and highly localized
Buffets – All-you-can-eat concepts with diverse selections
Family-style restaurants – Large portions and kid-friendly menus
Fine dining – Upscale experiences featuring premium ingredients

How do you categorize a restaurant?

Restaurants are typically categorized based on several key factors: service style (e.g., full-service, fast casual, quick service), menu type (e.g., seafood, vegan, barbecue), pricing (e.g., budget, mid-range, upscale), and dining experience (e.g., fine dining, casual, themed). Some also fall under specialized formats like food trucks, ghost kitchens, or cafeterias. Understanding these categories helps aspiring restaurateurs define their concept and target audience more effectively.

What type of restaurant is best to start?

How many types of restaurants are there?

This blog post highlights 30 of the most common and emerging restaurant types, offering a complete guide for anyone looking to start a food business.

Restaurant types are generally grouped into broad categories, such as:

Full-service restaurants (e.g., fine dining, casual dining, steakhouses)
Quick service restaurants (e.g., fast food, fast casual, food carts)
Specialty concepts (e.g., sushi bars, BBQ joints, vegan cafés)
Alternative formats (e.g., ghost kitchens, pop-ups, food halls)

What is the most popular type of restaurant?

The most popular type of restaurant globally is fast food, due to its convenience, affordability, and familiarity. Chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and KFC dominate this space. However, fast casual restaurants like Chipotle or Shake Shack are growing rapidly, offering a higher-quality dining experience while maintaining speed and value—making them a top choice for today’s busy, health-conscious consumers.

Features	Shared Portals	eTakeaway Max™
Online branding	Nope	Absolutely. Our web design team works closely with you to create your very own custom site. No bog-standard templates here.
Social media promotion	Nope	Yep. We’re big believers in the power of social media. Building a presence is pretty easy too – people love seeing your food pics.
Email marketing	Nope	Included. Email newsletters are great for luring in customers with your new deals. It’s hard to turn down a freebie.
Coupons and loyalty points	Nope	Sure. Not too long ago we developed a loyalty point system – perfect for upselling and making sure customers always come back.
Commissions	Yep. Upwards of 11%!	Never have, never will.
Promotions (Including Google ads)	Another nope.	£600 worth of promotional material included in each package.