Lent 2026:
Fresh Sheet
From Ash Wednesday to Easter, satisfying seafood and vegetarian mains are the name of the game when it comes to guests who are observing Lent.
The Perfect Lent Pairings
The Case for More Seafood on the Menu
From Ash Wednesday or on any Friday during the six-week period through Easter there could be upwards of 20 million consumers in the U.S. looking for Lent-friendly alternatives; menu research firm Datassential reports that restaurants have seen a 20% increase in seafood sales during this period. But outside of Lent, there’s also also a holistic growing demand among diners for more seafood on the menu.
Stats that make a solid case for year round seafood on the menu
26% of Gen Z consumers have increased their seafood consumption in the past year, making this younger generation a key target market for seafood
Nearly 90% of consumers say that seafood is a healthy protein option, and respectively one-fifth of adults are eating more seafood in place of meat
48% of consumers who have increased their seafood intake were primarily motivated by a love for its taste and flavor
Additionally, 57% of seafood consumers are interested in seeing more global seafood dishes at restaurants near them
* Data from QSRMagazine.com and USFoods.com
2026 LENT: Menu Inspiration
APPETIZERS
MAINS
Portobello Fettuccine Alfredo
Tuna Loaded Baked Potato Boats
with Coastal Butter
Mahi Mahi
Eggplant Parmesan
Three Cheese Ravioli & Butternut Squash Sauce
White Cheddar Lobster Mac n Cheese
Chickpea Pot Pie
with Rosemary Dijon
Scallops with Mushroom and Pea Gnocchi
with Truffle Parmesan
APPETIZERS
MAINS
Portobello Fettuccine Alfredo
Tuna Loaded Baked Potato Boats
with Coastal Butter
Mahi Mahi
Eggplant Parmesan
Three Cheese Ravioli & Butternut Squash Sauce
White Cheddar Lobster Mac n Cheese
Chickpea Pot Pie
with Rosemary Dijon
Scallops with Mushroom and Pea Gnocchi
with Truffle Parmesan

