Hotel restaurants are playing a growing role in how consumers choose destinations, hotels and dining experiences, according to new research released by OpenTable alongside its 2026 Top 100 Hotel Restaurants in America list.
The company found that 61 percent of Americans have chosen a destination because of its food or restaurant scene, underscoring the influence dining has on travel decisions. Among consumers planning to travel this summer, 60 percent said they have booked a hotel specifically because of its restaurant.
That interest is translating into increased traffic for hotel dining venues. OpenTable data showed hotel restaurant dining by travelers rose 13 percent year over year, while overall diner visits to hotel restaurants increased 7 percent.
"Restaurants aren't just an itinerary line item anymore, they're the anchor. Our research backs this up, as half of Americans have booked a hotel specifically because of its restaurant," Matt Davis, Head of North America Hotels at OpenTable, said in a statement. "This year's Top 100 list spotlights the hotel hotspots worth traveling for, and with our AI Concierge helping diners get instant answers to their culinary questions, OpenTable is making it even easier to turn inspiration into a seat at the table."
OpenTable’s research also suggests hotel restaurants are attracting diners beyond overnight guests. According to the survey, 92 percent of respondents have dined at a hotel restaurant while not staying at the property, highlighting the growing appeal of these venues among both travelers and local residents.
Younger consumers are increasingly planning restaurant experiences before their trips begin. OpenTable found that 88 percent of Gen Z travelers make restaurant reservations ahead of time, and 46 percent think about restaurant bookings at the same time they book a hotel.
There is also growth in solo dining. OpenTable data showed traveler parties of one increased 30 percent year over year, while 71 percent of survey respondents said they would consider dining alone at a hotel restaurant or bar in the future.
Technology is influencing dining decisions as well. More than half (51 percent) of respondents said they plan to use AI tools to discover and book restaurant reservations while traveling this year. Interest was even higher among Gen Z consumers (65 percent) and Millennials (60 percent).
At the same time, travelers appear to be seeking a balance between digital inspiration and in-person experiences. While 58 percent said social media enhances dining experiences, 71 percent reported intentionally reducing screen time while traveling to focus on face-to-face connections.
For restaurant operators, the findings point to a continued convergence of dining and travel, with food-and-beverage offerings increasingly serving as a factor in destination selection, hotel bookings and trip planning.