Beer & Hamburger Trends 2025: What’s Next for America’s Favorite Combo?
Some things never go out of style – like the perfect combination of a cold beer and a juicy burger. Whether you’re at a sports bar, a backyard barbecue, or a casual restaurant, this pairing remains an all-time favorite.
But just like any industry, beer and hamburgers are evolving with changing consumer tastes, health trends, and market innovations.
As more consumers seek unique dining experiences, restaurants and bars are stepping up their game, offering curated beer and burger pairings that elevate this classic duo.
So, what’s shaping the future of beer and hamburgers in 2025? Let’s dive into the biggest beer & hamburger trends and what they mean for business owners like you.
What Makes Beer and Burger the Perfect Pair?
For centuries, beer and hamburgers have been a staple of American dining. But their pairing goes beyond:
The Science Behind the Pairing
The rich, fatty texture of a burger contrasts beautifully with the carbonation and bitterness of beer. The hops in beer cut through the fat, cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavors of the beef, cheese, and toppings.
Lighter beers like lagers complement classic cheeseburgers, while bold IPAs pair well with smoky, spicy flavors like barbecue or jalapeño burgers.
Cultural Appeal & Social Experience
From tailgate parties to sports bars, beer, and burgers are a social experience. They bring people together, whether it’s at a casual lunch, a game night, or a summer cookout.
Many restaurants and bars curate specialty beer-and-burger pairings, making the experience feel more intentional and exciting for consumers. These pairings are becoming headline features in beer & hamburger trends across the country.
A Business Win for Bars & Restaurants
For restaurants and sports bars like Hotshots Sports Bar, this combination isn’t just popular – it’s profitable.
Burgers and beer have good margins, and offering unique, high-quality pairings can set a business apart in a competitive market, especially when you’re dialed into the top beer and hamburger trends.
Beer Industry Analysis: The State of the Beer Industry in 2025
The beer industry continues to thrive and is evolving with the changing customer preferences. While traditional lagers and IPAs remain popular, craft breweries, innovative flavors, and premium experiences are reshaping the market.
Market Size & Growth
The global beer market was valued at over USD 851.15 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow steadily. In the U.S. alone, beer sales account for over $100 billion annually, with craft breweries making up a significant portion of that revenue.
The demand for local, high-quality brews continues to fuel the expansion of independent breweries, another key driver of beer and hamburger trends.
Key Beer Industry Trends to Look Out For
Craft Beer Movement on the Rise
Consumers are increasingly drawn to craft beers with unique flavors, seasonal offerings, and locally sourced ingredients. Bars and restaurants are incorporating more local brews to attract enthusiasts.
Low ABV Beers
The rise of health-conscious drinking habits has led to a surge in low-ABV beer options, appealing to a broader audience.
Flavored & Experimental Beers
From fruity sours to barrel-aged stouts, breweries have started innovating flavors to appeal to adventurous drinkers.
Cold IPAs Still in Hot Demand
Cold IPAs still remain in high demand and are captivating the palates of beer lovers seeking hop-forward and refreshing experiences. The blend of the bold hop of an Indian Pale and the crispiness of a lager creates a harmonized fusion of flavors.
Burger Industry Analysis: The State of the Hamburger Industry
Just like beer, the hamburger industry is a cornerstone of American dining culture. Whether it’s a classic cheeseburger or a gourmet creation, burgers remain a go-to option for consumers across all demographics.
The industry has continued to evolve, with new flavors, healthier alternatives, and premium ingredients driving its growth.
Market Size & Growth
The U.S. hamburger industry is valued at over $166.6 billion in 2024, with fast-casual and premium burger chains like Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill seeing the highest growth. Much of this growth is being driven by the shift toward beer and hamburger trends that emphasize quality and bold flavor.
Key Hamburger Industry Trends to Look Out For
Gourmet & Premium Burgers
Consumers are willing to pay more for higher-quality meat, artisanal buns, and unique toppings like truffle aioli or smoked brisket. Upscale burger chains are redefining the fast-food experience with chef-inspired creations.
Regional Favorites Go National
Local burger styles are gaining popularity nationwide. Think Patty Melt burgers, Big Shot burgers, and California-style smash burgers are making their way onto more menus.
Loaded & Over-the-Top Creations
From stuffed patties to burgers topped with eggs, onion rings, and specialty sauces, indulgence is key. Restaurants are making burgers bigger, bolder, and packed with flavor – as modern customers like it that way.
Cheese Matters More Than Ever
American cheese is a classic, but now menus feature brie, gouda, blue cheese, and smoked cheddar, giving burgers a gourmet twist. Cheese blends and unique melt techniques are becoming an art form.
How Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill is Riding the Wave
While the beer and burger industries continue to evolve, Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill has positioned itself as a pioneer in the casual dining space.
Unlike standard bars or burger chains, Hotshots Sports Bar offers a franchise model that blends sports, entertainment, and a fantastic menu to create a high-energy atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
This Ain’t Your Average Sports Bar Franchise
Hotshots isn’t playing small ball. This is a fully-loaded, high-octane franchise system built to dominate. With 30+ years of real-world grit, a proven playbook, and coast-to-coast fan-favorite status, Hotshots hands you the keys to a bar that’s ready to win big from day one. No guesswork, no gimmicks just a badass brand with your back.
Comprehensive Franchisee Support
From site selection and staff training to marketing strategies and supplier networks, Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill provides everything you need to run a successful operation.
A Sports-Driven Customer Experience
Every Hotshots franchise integrates multiple screens, game-day specials, and interactive entertainment to create an environment that attracts both sports fans and casual diners. This means a continuous stream of revenue in all seasons.
Proven Menu & Beverage Selection
The highly curated menu sets Hotshots franchises apart from other bars. Hotshots understands the power of beer and burgers and delivers quality, variety, and customer favorites, firmly rooted in what today’s beer and hamburger trends demand.
Own a Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill: The Ultimate Beer & Burger Destination
Few things bring people together like great beer, mouthwatering burgers, and an electrifying sports atmosphere. At Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill, we’ve mastered this winning combination, and now you can be part of the success.
As the beer and burger industry continues to grow, investing in a Hotshots Sports Bar franchise means stepping into the market with strong brand recognition, loyal customers, and full franchisee support.
For more information regarding the beer and burger bar opportunity, give us a call at (314) 668 – 1401.
Be your own boss. Own a Hotshots franchise today!
