Restaurant operators continue to face what seem to be contradictory demands from consumers. Responding to each of these demands can be difficult, but the task is critical for brands that aim to differentiate and capture return visits.

Despite an influx of competition, restaurants appear to be on a growth trajectory, carving out their own niches to capture varying consumer occasions.

Diners are much more opinionated and vocal about their restaurant preferences, and operators need to constantly adapt menus to appeal to their main customer demographic.

For leading restaurant chains, the past year was somewhat of a mixed bag.