The rise of American staples like burgers and gourmet hot dogs has seemed unstoppable in recent years, and the fourth National Burger Day on August 25th came as a further boost to diner furniture occupancy rates.
Research from Mintel showed 45% of Brits planned to buy a burger to celebrate, and this figure was even higher among younger people, at 58% of those aged 16 to 34.
In the regions, 50% of Yorkshire residents, 49% in each of London and the north-west, and 48% in the West Midlands were planning to buy a burger on the day.
But this steadily growing market is not just for one day - the analyst's research revealed that 60% of all Brits have bought a burger while eating out in the past three months.
Kiti Soininen, head of UK food and drink research at Mintel, said: "Enthusiasm for burgers remains strong with British consumers. Food-themed events, like National Burger Day, can capitalise on the growing popularity of the food trend by giving consumers an excuse to go out and enjoy a treat."
It's also a trend that covers the full range of foodservice establishments from themed American diners to gourmet restaurants, gastropubs and roadside cafes.
At the top end of the market are gourmet burgers, and Mintel found 71% of customers expect this to mean that the burger patty itself is freshly made; 54% expect a choice of customised dressings and 48% want to be asked how they prefer their burger to be cooked.
"Consumers see freshly made burgers as the biggest marker of a gourmet burger venue, something that sets them apart as this is not traditionally offered by fast food venues," the analyst added.
The surging popularity of American staples has helped to establish burgers and hot dogs as a gourmet option in recent years, transforming themed diners from being perceived as fast food establishments, to a viable alternative for an evening out.
Iconic red and cream diner furniture can help to reinforce this image, creating comfortable booths and table seating, while also creating a sense of an authentic dining experience for customers.