Heston Blumenthal, a renowned restaurateur and chef, has introduced a new menu at his Michelin-starred restaurant, The Fat Duck, that features smaller portion sizes. This initiative reflects a growing demand for reduced quantities in dining experiences, which some attribute to the increasing popularity of weight-loss medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro.
The new offering, called the Mindful Experience, allows diners to enjoy the same dishes as the standard menu, known as the Journey, but with a reduction in portion sizes of about 20% to 30%, and in some cases, up to 50%. The price for this experience is set at £275 per person, which is £75 less than the full menu. The dishes on offer include innovative creations, such as the Nitro-Poached Aperitif and Crab and Passionfruit 99′.
Blumenthal, who has personally used Mounjaro for weight management, notes that the sensation of not feeling hungry influenced his thoughts about the restaurant industry’s future. He expressed concerns about how diminishing appetite could impact restaurant revenues and consumer behaviors, including those related to food, alcohol, and supermarket shopping.
Research indicates that 37% of UK consumers prioritize weight loss for health, with approximately 3.6 million adults using weight-loss drugs, according to UKHospitality. This has led businesses like Weight Watchers to adapt by recommending these medications alongside traditional weight management advice.
While some analysts foresee gradual changes in food consumption trends, others remain skeptical about the scale of the impact, forecasting a possible reduction in demand for certain food categories. Brands are already modifying their offerings in response to these shifts, with companies like Nestlé developing higher-protein products.
As The Fat Duck celebrates its 30th anniversary, Blumenthal emphasizes that with the rise of appetite suppressants, restaurants must adapt to evolving eating behaviors. He suggests that mindful eating may play a significant role in future dining experiences.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/food/2025/sep/17/heston-blumenthal-new-menu-the-fat-duck-diners-weight-loss-jabs