Trends we spotted | Week 18
At horecatrends.com we spot many national and international trends on a daily basis. We pick the most interesting ones to write about, the other trends we use in our weekly column ‘Trends we spotted this week’. With this week links to articles about:
- We love the idea of making a wedding cake on the spot! Spotted in Italy.
- Marriott International has announced it is expanding its lifestyle portfolio by acquiring citizenM.
- The Maybourne Riviera hotel reopens for the 2025 season with new culinary, wellbeing and guest experiences.
- Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is set to host the iconic Gigi Rigolatto pop-up this summer.
- Spotted at Chin Chin labs: vanilla soft serve with French fries and a drizzle of potato peel sauce.
- The first 3D printed Starbucks store has opened in Brownsville, Texas.
- Designs have been revealed for Laheq, the first residential-led development at The Red Sea in Saudi Arabia, developed by Red Sea Global (RSG) and designed by Foster + Partners.
- Starting May 5, McCrispy™ Strips and the all-new Creamy Chili Dip will be available nationwide at McDonald’s USA.
- Domino’s Pizza and Bicky launch spicy Bicky Mexicano® pizza in Belgium.
- Sensory Cooking by Homey’s Tools for Life elevates the cooking ritual with kitchen tools designed by Boey Wang of Studio Boey.
Enjoy reading!
Marriott to acquire citizenM, expanding lifestyle portfolio
Marriott International has announced an agreement to acquire citizenM, a lifestyle hotel brand known for its tech-savvy, design-focused approach. The deal, valued at $355 million, includes the brand and related IP, and aims to boost Marriott’s presence in the select-service and lifestyle segments.
citizenM currently operates 36 hotels with 8,544 rooms across major cities including New York, London, and Tokyo, with three more hotels opening by mid-2026. The brand, founded in 2008, appeals to modern, value-conscious travelers through smart room design, collaborative lounges, and immersive art. Following the acquisition, citizenM hotels will operate under long-term franchise agreements with Marriott, while the original owners retain real estate ownership. The transaction, expected to close in 2025 pending regulatory approval, is projected to increase Marriott’s net room growth to nearly 5% that year. More details in their press release, link in the title.
The Maybourne Riviera reopens for the 2025 season with new culinary, wellbeing and guest experiences
The Maybourne Riviera will reopen on 17 June 2025 with exciting new additions. Guests can enjoy abc kitchens riviera by Jean-Georges Vongerichten and La Môme Riviera beach club. The hotel also introduces Surrenne Riviera, a cutting-edge wellness and longevity destination offering personalised treatments and immersive therapies. Unique guest experiences include local wine tastings, yoga with panoramic views, and guided hikes along the Côte d’Azur. With world-class dining, bespoke wellness, and a rich artistic legacy, The Maybourne Riviera offers a luxurious escape perched high above the Mediterranean. A great hotel at an exceptional spot! More details on their website, link in the title.
Mandarin Oriental Bodrum welcomes Gigi Rigolatto for this summer
Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is set to host the iconic Gigi Rigolatto pop-up this summer, bringing its signature blend of refined Italian flair, vibrant ambiance, and elegant dining to the Turkish Riviera. Known from Paris, Saint-Tropez, Dubai, and Rome, Gigi will offer sun-drenched lunches, sunset bellinis, and unforgettable seaside evenings. Opening in June 2025, the 140-seat terrace overlooks the Aegean sea, surrounded by private beaches and olive groves. A permanent Gigi location is planned for summer 2026, promising guests a timeless mix of luxury, gastronomy, and Mediterranean charm. All details in their press release, link in the title.
Making a wedding cake on the spot
We love the Italian idea of making a wedding cake on the spot. We couldn’t find who created the cake but we love the idea! We once had dinner at Alinea in Chicago, who created a pie on the table as dessert, very nice to watch. It didn’t take much time but it’s great to watch! Spotted on the account of Loving Haute Couture.
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(@lovinghautecouture)Glazed potato skin sauce and soft serve with French Fries at Chin Chin Labs
Spotted at Digital Diary London at Chin Chin labs (Chin Chin Ice cream), a glazed potato skin soft serve. We have spotted the combination of potato and vanilla ice cream before but this is a new combination with French fries and a drizzle of potato peel sauce – a unique combination of sweet and savoury. We did write another article on Chin Chin Labs in London back in 2017. Check out the embedded post below!
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The first 3D printed Starbucks store opened in Brownsville, Texas
Near the U.S.-Mexico border, in Brownsville, a computer-controlled robotic arm did much of the work by pouring one layer of concrete atop another to create the first 3D printed Starbucks store. The location opens today and is a drive-thru only. More details in the article at AP news, link in the title.
Laheq | The first residential-led island development at The Red Sea in Saudi Arabia
Designs have been revealed for Laheq, the first residential-led development at The Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Developed by Red Sea Global (RSG) and designed by Foster + Partners, the project sensitively transforms the 400-hectare Laheq Island into a luxury green community.
The design concept is called ‘Forever Garden’ in reference to the plant life and vivid greenery that is woven through the masterplan. Vegetation will grow and flourish over time, ensuring that the island offers a new experience with every returning visit. An 800-metre diameter structure known as ‘The Ring’ encircles a spectacular lagoon and pristine white sand beaches, which have been created for the project. More details in the press release, linked in the title.
McDonald’s US introduces McCrispy™ Strips and Creamy Chili Dip
McDonald’s fans asked for more chicken – and they delivered. Starting May 5, McCrispy™ Strips and the all-new Creamy Chili Dip will be available nationwide in the U.S. The juicy, 100% white meat chicken strips are coated in crispy, golden breading with a bold black pepper flavor. Paired with the savory, sweet, and tangy Creamy Chili Dip, it’s a flavor combo here to stay. Available in three- or four-piece servings, fans can also mix and match with classic McDonald’s sauces. More details in their press release, linked in the title.
Domino’s pizza and Bicky launch spicy Bicky Mexicano® pizza in Belgium
Following the success of the original Bicky Pizza, Domino’s Pizza and Bicky have joined forces once again to launch a new limited edition: the Bicky Mexicano® pizza. This halal pizza features Bicky Hot Sauce, Bicky Tomato, mozzarella, Bicky Cucumber Salad, spiced Mexicano pieces, crispy onions, and Bicky Dressing – a flavourful tribute to Belgium’s beloved snack culture. Available only until 22 June 2025 at Domino’s locations across Belgium. According to both brands, the Bicky vibe perfectly complements Domino’s local twist on classic fast food. Whether it stays on the menu is up to the fans.
Ergonomic design for effortless cutting | Kitchen tools by Studio Boey
Cooking is more than preparing a meal. It’s a sensory experience where touch, smell, and taste come together. Sensory Cooking by Homey’s Tools for Life elevates this ritual with kitchen tools designed by Boey Wang of Studio Boey.
Ergonomic design and intuitive forms make cutting, chopping, and prepping a smooth and effortless motion. The Sensory Cooking collection is rooted in a deep understanding of human nature. Boey Wang designed the knives to feel like an extension of your hand – allowing you to execute cutting techniques almost instinctively. More details on their website, link in the title.
