Americans are happy to eat out as much as they can, but many are finding that inflation is holding back their away-from-home dining aspirations.
A Popmenu survey finds that while 64% of respondents say they would “dine at or order from restaurants every day if they could manage it,” they spend just 30% of their monthly food budget on restaurants. That’s down from 40% in 2022.
It appears that when consumers do spend the money on dining out, they’re not being as generous with gratuities: While 38% say they’re spending the same or more on restaurant dining vs. last year, they’re tipping less.
According to preliminary data from the U.S. Census Bureau, eating and drinking venues generated $93.7 billion on a seasonally adjusted basis in March. After declines in December and January, industry revenue rose in February and March — but it still trails the $94.2 billion high from November 2023.
“Although restaurant industry sales remain healthy, competition for guests has intensified over the last several months,” Brendan Sweeney, CEO and co-founder of Popmenu, said in a release. “Consumers are doing their homework: 80% research restaurant menus online as they assess dishes, cost, convenience, and other drivers of dining decisions. Restaurants who are winning and growing are 1) offering more budget-friendly menu options or discounts and 2) actively engaging consumers across digital channels to entice them to order online or in person.”
The survey’s findings suggest consumers are primarily concerned with saving money. Fifty-two percent say they prioritize restaurants with bigger portions, which mean leftovers for later.
The survey polled 1,000 U.S. consumers ages 18+ from April 16-17, 2024.
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