Bengaluru: Food delivery platform Zomato has unveiled its 2024 year-ender report, shedding light on the fascinating dining and ordering habits of Indians. The data revealed a jaw-dropping instance where a Bengaluru resident spent over ₹5 lakh on a single meal. While the identity of the customer remains anonymous, this extravagant expenditure has left many amazed.
Biryani: The Nation's Undisputed Favorite
The report confirmed that Biryani continues to reign supreme as the most-loved dish in India. For yet another year, Biryani has held its position at the top of the food charts. According to Zomato’s data, the platform delivered over 9 crore servings of Biryani in 2024, equating to more than three orders per second throughout the year.
This overwhelming demand for Biryani underscores its timeless popularity across regions and demographics. Its consistent position as India’s favorite dish highlights its cultural and culinary significance.
Pizza and Tea: Popular Choices Among Indians
While Biryani dominated the main course, Pizza also saw significant traction. Zomato delivered a staggering 5,84,46,908 pizzas this year, making it another favorite choice among food enthusiasts.
When it came to beverages, tea surpassed coffee to become the most-ordered drink on the platform. Indians ordered 77,76,725 cups of tea, compared to 74,32,856 cups of coffee, showing a clear preference for this comforting beverage. Despite coffee's growing popularity in urban households, tea remains deeply rooted in India’s food culture.
Delhi: The Capital of Dining Out Savings
Delhi emerged as the leader in saving money while dining out, thanks to Zomato’s offers and discounts. Residents in the national capital saved a whopping ₹195 crore in 2024 through Zomato’s promotions, leaving behind Bengaluru and Mumbai, which followed closely.
This finding highlights Delhi’s smart dining habits and the widespread use of discount offers among its residents. Bengaluru and Mumbai, though popular for their vibrant food scenes, couldn’t match Delhi’s thrifty approach to dining out.
A Glimpse into India's Food Culture in 2024
Zomato’s 2024 year-ender report provides more than just numbers; it paints a vivid picture of India’s diverse food preferences:
1. Unmatched Love for Biryani:
The staggering number of Biryani deliveries highlights its widespread appeal across India. Its ability to cater to regional tastes, with variations like Hyderabadi Biryani, Kolkata Biryani, and Lucknowi Biryani, ensures it remains a top choice for food lovers.
2. Pizza’s Growing Popularity:
The surge in pizza deliveries indicates a shift towards Western fast food, particularly among younger generations. With an increasing number of international pizza chains entering the Indian market, the demand for this Italian delicacy continues to rise.
3. Tea’s Enduring Relevance:
Tea’s victory over coffee underscores its status as India’s quintessential beverage. Whether it’s a roadside chaiwala or a luxury cafe, tea remains integral to the country’s daily routine.
4. Extravagant Spending:
The report’s revelation of a Bengaluru man spending over ₹5 lakh on a single meal reflects the rising trend of luxury dining in urban India. High-end dining experiences, curated menus, and exclusive services are becoming popular among affluent consumers.
5. Smart Savings Culture:
The substantial savings by Delhi residents through Zomato offers indicate a growing awareness of the benefits of using digital platforms for dining out. This trend showcases how consumers are leveraging technology to maximize value.
Zomato’s Role in Shaping India’s Dining Habits
Zomato’s report also highlights its significant impact on shaping food consumption trends in India. By delivering millions of orders daily, the platform has become an essential part of the country’s food ecosystem. Its year-ender data not only provides insights into consumer behavior but also reflects how technology and convenience are transforming India’s culinary landscape.
Zomato’s 2024 year-ender report is a testament to India’s diverse and evolving food culture. From the enduring love for Biryani to the growing preference for Pizza and the smart savings by Delhi residents, the data captures a snapshot of the nation’s culinary habits.
As food delivery platforms continue to gain popularity, reports like these offer valuable insights into the changing preferences of Indian consumers. With luxury dining experiences becoming more common and traditional favorites like tea and Biryani holding their ground, the Indian food scene is a blend of modernity and tradition.
This comprehensive data reaffirms Zomato’s role as a key player in India’s dining landscape, shaping how the nation eats, drinks, and saves.