Sandwich trends to watch in 2026
Sandwich trends to watch in 2026
Sandwiches continue to reinvent themselves.
From smash burgers and chicken burgers to recipes with international influences and new plant-based options, formats are evolving without losing what has made them so successful: simplicity, indulgence, and efficiency.
01 — The smash burger is still in the running
The smash burger continues to establish itself as a mainstay on menus. Thinly smashed steak, caramelized edges, melty cheddar and a soft bun: the format ticks all the boxes of a gourmet burger while remaining easy to produce.
In 2026, smash burgers are not disappearing in favor of new trends. Instead, they are becoming a modern classic, around which brands continue to evolve their recipes.
02 — The chicken burger confirms its place
Chicken is playing an increasingly important role in Food Service, especially through chicken sandwiches, burgers, wraps and crispy formats. Circana identifies chicken-based offerings as a category that is set to keep growing.
The BBQ Chicken Burger fits perfectly into this dynamic: crispy chicken, BBQ sauce, cheddar, lettuce and pickles. A familiar recipe, but generous enough to offer an alternative to the traditional burger.
03 — More protein, more choice
The sandwich is also becoming a way to meet the growing interest in high-protein recipes. This trend now goes beyond the fitness market alone: protein is becoming a real criterion in Food Service menu development.
Chicken sandwiches, beef, egg, cheese or fish: protein options are multiplying and making it possible to diversify menus without completely changing the formats.
04 — Global flavors are making their way into familiar formats
A sandwich does not need to change format to change its personality.
Korean, Japanese, Mexican and West African influences are gradually gaining ground on European menus. The idea: start with a well-known format — burger, sandwich, wrap — and bring in new sauces, spices and pairings.
The result: more distinctive recipes, without losing the format's accessibility.
05 — Plant-based is moving beyond the simple “veggie burger”
Plant-based options are evolving too. The offer is no longer limited to recreating a traditional steak with a plant-based alternative: roasted vegetables, legumes, mushrooms, halloumi and world-cuisine-inspired combinations make it possible to create different recipes.
In Europe, the plant-based market continues to grow, with 5.1% growth between 2024 and 2025 according to Circana, even if plant-based products still account for a limited share of food sales.
06 — The sandwich becomes a space for expression
Ultimately, the 2026 trend may be less about a new kind of sandwich than about greater variety.
The smash burger remains. The chicken burger is gaining ground. Recipes are getting richer in protein, international influences are multiplying and plant-based options are taking new forms.
One format, more and more possibilities.
Key takeaways
Key takeaways
The major sandwich trends of 2026:
- The smash burger is becoming a new classic
- Chicken burgers, especially crispy ones, continue to gain ground
- Recipes are placing a greater emphasis on protein
- International flavors are transforming familiar formats
- Plant-based options are diversifying beyond simple meat replacement
- The sandwich is becoming a flexible format for refreshing menus