The Unlikely Room Service Star: How the Humble Hamburger Conquered Asia-Pacific Hotels
As I stepped off the plane and into the sweltering heat of Singapore, I couldn't help but crave something familiar. A long-haul flight had left me feeling drained, and all I wanted was a taste of home. I ordered room service from my hotel's menu, scanning the options with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Would they get it right? As I waited for my meal to arrive, I pondered the question that had been on my mind: what do travelers really crave when ordering in-room?
A new report from Marriott International has shed light on this very question, revealing some surprising insights into the preferences of luxury travelers in Asia-Pacific. According to their 2026 Future of Food study, which surveyed 270 food and beverage hotel teams across the region, the most-ordered room service dish is not a local specialty or exotic delicacy, but rather the humble hamburger.
This finding may come as a shock to those who assume that travelers would be eager to try new and exciting cuisine. But Petr Raba, vice president of Food Beverage at Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China, explains that in today's fast-paced world, people are seeking comfort, familiarity, and convenience – especially after a long flight or a busy day.
"The burger delivers on all fronts," Raba says. "It's satisfying, customizable, and universally loved." This sentiment is echoed by travelers like Emily Chen, a marketing executive from Hong Kong who has spent countless nights ordering room service in hotels across the region. "I know it sounds cliché, but there's just something about a good burger that hits the spot after a long day," she says.
But what makes the burger so appealing to travelers? Is it the nostalgia of childhood memories or the familiarity of a classic comfort food? Perhaps it's the customization options – from toppings to sauces – that allow travelers to tailor their meal to their individual tastes. Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: the burger has become an unlikely star in the world of room service.
As I took my first bite of the perfectly cooked patty and crispy bun, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. It was more than just a meal – it was a taste of home, a reminder that even in the most unfamiliar surroundings, there's always comfort to be found.
The Marriott International report highlights the importance of understanding traveler preferences when it comes to food and beverage offerings. By catering to these cravings, hotels can create a more personalized experience for their guests, setting them apart from the competition.
As I finished my meal and settled into bed, feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, I couldn't help but wonder what other secrets the world of room service holds. Will the burger remain the top choice in years to come? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – when it comes to satisfying traveler cravings, this classic comfort food has earned its place at the top.
Sources:
Marriott International's 2026 Future of Food study
Interviews with Petr Raba, vice president of Food Beverage at Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China
Emily Chen, marketing executive from Hong Kong
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*Based on reporting by Forbes.*
