Tik Tok and the taste revolution: the viral food & beverage trends in 2025

In 2025, TikTok remains one of the most powerful platforms for shaping global culinary trends. From exotic flavors to unexpected combinations, food and beverage trends born on TikTok are often disrupting eating habits, influencing consumer choices, and even driving restaurant marketing strategies. 

Here are some examples of the latest viral sensations emerging from the platform: 

Hot honey: sweet heat 

Hot honey has taken TikTok by storm thanks to its versatility. Used to enhance pizzas, cheeses, and even cocktails, this spicy-sweet condiment has seen a significant boost in sales. Brands already established in the category, like Mike’s Hot Honey, have experienced a notable rise in popularity. 

Tanghulu: candied Chinese fruit 

Tanghulu—skewered fruit coated in crunchy caramelized sugar—has captivated TikTok users with its glossy aesthetic and the satisfying contrast between crispy shell and juicy fruit. Originally from China, this street snack became viral through countless videos showcasing its preparation and taste tests. 

Propitious mango ice cream: edible art 

This Chinese mango-shaped ice cream became a TikTok sensation thanks to its unique presentation. With a thin white chocolate shell and a creamy mango core, it became so sought-after that it quickly sold out in many Asian supermarkets due to soaring demand. 

Luxury Japanese strawberries: premium indulgence 

Japanese strawberries, particularly the Tochiaika variety, have gone viral on TikTok for their premium price and outstanding quality. Priced around $19 each, these strawberries are meticulously cultivated and admired for their sweetness and flawless appearance. 

Tahini coffee: flavor fusion 

Tahini, a sesame seed paste, made its way into coffee to add a creamy, nutty twist. Drinks like the Salted Tahini Honeycomb Latte have surged in popularity, with a 900% increase in Yelp searches. 

Mushroom coffee: natural energy boost 

Coffee infused with mushrooms like lion’s mane has grown in popularity for its claimed cognitive benefits. Brands like Four Sigmatic have led this trend, reporting significant growth in sales. 

The impact of TikTok on restaurant sales 

TikTok has proven it can directly impact restaurant performance. Take the UK chain Greggs, which introduced a mac & cheese dish inspired by a viral TikTok recipe. Now available in more than 1,750 locations, the dish has found success thanks to its cheesy richness and crispy topping. 

Why do TikTok food trends go viral? 

TikTok trends explode for several reasons: eye-catching visuals, ease of replication, emotional engagement, and the viral snowball effect of sharing. The platform’s “For You” algorithm is designed to amplify engaging videos rapidly. And when influencers or celebrities join in, a trend’s reach can multiply almost instantly. 

TikTok continues to be a driving force in the culinary world, influencing food trends, marketing strategies, and consumer tastes around the globe. For restaurants and food brands, the platform represents a unique opportunity to connect with a broad and diverse audience—turning simple dishes into viral sensations.