Asian cuisine outpaces global restaurant market growth

Asian cuisine is experiencing significant global growth, outperforming the broader restaurant market in every major region worldwide. According to a report by Euromonitor International, Asian full- and limited-service restaurants outside the Asia-Pacific region recorded an 11% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2020 to 2025, compared to 7% for the wider restaurant industry.

In North America and Western Europe, this growth is driven by increased consumer spending rather than an expansion of restaurant outlets. In Western Europe, the number of outlets actually declined, suggesting that existing establishments are seeing higher value in sales. Additionally, Asian dishes accounted for approximately 38% of global retail sales for chilled and frozen ready meals in 2025.

Cultural factors, including travel and the global influence of South Korean entertainment, are major drivers of this demand. South Korean frozen food has become one of the top five global cuisines in the frozen ready meal category, seeing a 15% CAGR between 2020 and 2025. Experts note that while novelty and cultural exposure drive initial interest, long-term success requires brands to adapt to local tastes and convenience needs.