Summary
- • 90% of Americans eat out at least once a week
- • The average American eats out 5.9 times per week
- • Millennials spend 44% of their food budget on eating out
- • The average household spent $3,459 on food away from home in 2018
- • 56% of consumers order takeout or delivery at least once a week
- • Online food delivery market is expected to reach $200 billion by 2025
- • 63% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers healthy menu options
- • 52% of Americans say they're actively trying to eat more plant-based foods
- • 77% of diners consider a restaurant's food quality when choosing where to eat
- • 33% of diners say they're influenced by online reviews when choosing a restaurant
- • The average tip in U.S. restaurants is 18.1%
- • 78% of servers prefer cash tips over credit card tips
- • The global restaurant industry is projected to reach $1.2 trillion by 2030
- • Fast food restaurants account for 50% of restaurant sales in the U.S.
- • 70% of adults say they're more likely to choose a restaurant that offers locally sourced food
If you find yourself constantly debating between dining out or cooking in, youre not alone. With 90% of Americans opting to eat out at least once a week and the average American consuming 5.9 meals away from home weekly, its clear that the restaurant industry has a firm grip on our appetites. From millennials spending nearly half their food budget on dining out to the global restaurant industry projected to hit $1.2 trillion by 2030, it seems our love affair with eating out is only getting stronger. So, grab a fork and join the feast of fascinating dining out statistics that will leave you hungry for more insights and maybe even contemplating your next meal choice!
Economic Impact
- 48% of consumers say they plan to dine out less often due to inflation
Interpretation
As restaurants grapple with the rise in costs, nearly half of consumers are feeling the pinch of inflation when it comes to their dining habits. While some may see this as a reflection of tightening budgets, others may view it as an opportunity to embrace their inner MasterChef and whip up gourmet meals at home. Either way, the dining landscape is evolving, and both restaurant owners and home cooks will need to adapt to cater to changing appetites.
Frequency
- 90% of Americans eat out at least once a week
- The average American eats out 5.9 times per week
- The average American eats 4.2 commercially prepared meals per week
- The average American eats fast food 3 times a week
- The average American eats 4.5 meals per week that were prepared outside the home
- The average American eats out 5.9 times per week
- The average American eats fast food twice a week
- The average American eats out 4.5 times per week
Interpretation
It seems that Americans have truly mastered the art of dining out, with statistics showing they prefer restaurant meals almost as much as home-cooked ones. In a world where time is a rare and precious commodity, the allure of convenience and variety is proving hard to resist. With an average of 5.9 restaurant outings per week, one can only wonder if the dinner table at home is starting to feel a bit neglected. Perhaps it's time to dust off those cookbooks and rediscover the joys of a homemade meal, or at the very least, invest in some takeout containers labeled with our names to blend the best of both worlds.
Industry Growth
- The global restaurant industry is projected to reach $1.2 trillion by 2030
- Fast food restaurants account for 50% of restaurant sales in the U.S.
Interpretation
As the global appetite for eating out continues to grow, the restaurant industry seems poised to devour the $1.2 trillion mark by 2030. With fast food reigning as the king of convenience in the U.S., accounting for a hefty 50% of all restaurant sales, it's clear that Americans are not only hungry for food, but also for quick and easy solutions to satisfy their cravings. In this fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, fast food establishments are reaping the benefits of serving up a side of efficiency with every order.
Menu Preferences
- 63% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers healthy menu options
- 52% of Americans say they're actively trying to eat more plant-based foods
- 70% of adults say they're more likely to choose a restaurant that offers locally sourced food
- 65% of Americans say they're trying to eat healthier when dining out
- 20% of consumers say they're willing to pay more for sustainable restaurant practices
- 25% of consumers say they're more likely to order dessert when dining out
- 56% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers unique flavors
- 70% of consumers say they're more likely to choose a restaurant that offers healthy options
- 25% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers plant-based options
- 58% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers customizable menu items
- 30% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers breakfast all day
- 52% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers seasonal menu items
- 40% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers family-style meals
- 35% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers gluten-free options
- 38% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a kids menu
- 42% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers ethnic cuisine
- 30% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a prix fixe menu
- 50% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a happy hour
Interpretation
In a world where dining out has become a reflection of our evolving values, these statistics paint a vivid picture of the modern consumer palate. We're a society torn between the desire for health-conscious choices and the occasional temptation of a decadent dessert. We demand sustainability and local sourcing while also craving bold, unique flavors and customizable menu options. It seems we want it all – from plant-based and gluten-free options to happy hours and family-style meals. The modern diner is on a culinary adventure, seeking out restaurants that cater to their every whim, from breakfast at any hour to seasonal delights and exotic ethnic cuisines. The message to restaurants is clear: adapt or risk being left behind in this ever-shifting landscape of tastes and preferences.
Portion Sizes
- The average restaurant meal is 4 times larger than it was in the 1950s
- The average restaurant meal contains 1,205 calories
- 60% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a variety of portion sizes
Interpretation
In modern dining culture, it seems that bigger is better – just ask the average restaurant meal, which now sizes up four times larger than its 1950s counterpart and packs a hefty 1,205 calorie punch. However, amidst this culinary giantism, there exists a glimmer of hope for portion-conscious diners as 60% of consumers express a preference for eateries that cater to a range of serving sizes. So, remember, when it comes to dining out, it's not just about the quantity – it's about finding the perfect portion that leaves you both satisfied and guilt-free.
Reasons for Dining Out
- 51% of Americans say they eat out to socialize with family and friends
Interpretation
In a world where screens are becoming our primary means of communication, it seems that breaking bread together is still the preferred way for Americans to catch up and connect. So, while we may scroll through our feeds or send a quick text to stay in touch, nothing quite beats the bonding experience of sharing a meal with loved ones. It appears that in the age of technology, the dinner table remains the original social network.
Restaurant Selection
- 77% of diners consider a restaurant's food quality when choosing where to eat
- 33% of diners say they're influenced by online reviews when choosing a restaurant
- 34% of diners say they choose restaurants based on convenience of location
- 67% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers outdoor seating
- 72% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a clean and hygienic environment
- 68% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a comfortable atmosphere
Interpretation
In the ever-evolving landscape of dining preferences, it seems that food quality reigns supreme as the ultimate decider for 77% of diners. However, in this digital age, the power of online reviews holds sway over 33% of restaurant-goers. Location convenience plays a significant role for 34% of diners, highlighting the importance of accessibility. Outdoor seating seems to have a magnetic pull for 67% of consumers seeking a breath of fresh air with their meal. Moreover, the importance of hygiene cannot be overstated, as 72% prioritize a clean and hygienic environment when choosing where to dine. Lastly, a cozy and welcoming atmosphere is crucial for 68% of consumers, proving that comfort is key in the dining experience. It appears that the recipe for success in the restaurant industry lies in a careful balance of culinary excellence, online presence, accessibility, ambiance, and cleanliness.
Spending Habits
- Millennials spend 44% of their food budget on eating out
- The average household spent $3,459 on food away from home in 2018
- The average American spends $3,000 per year on dining out
- The average American spends 13% of their income on food
- The average American family spends $3,008 per year on dining out
- The average American spends $232 per month on dining out
- The average American spends $3,365 per year on dining out
- The average American spends $3,526 per year on dining out
- The average American spends $3,675 per year on dining out
Interpretation
In a world where avocado toast and artisanal coffee reign supreme, it comes as no surprise that dining out has become a cornerstone of American culture. Millennials, known for their love of experiences over possessions, are leading the charge by allocating a whopping 44% of their food budget to restaurants. As the average American family clocks in at over $3,000 per year on dining out alone, it's clear that the kitchen table is being traded in for cozy booths and communal tables. So, whether you're a brunch enthusiast or a late-night taco connoisseur, it's evident that our wallets are following our appetites as we collectively embrace the joy (and cost) of eating out.
Takeout and Delivery
- 56% of consumers order takeout or delivery at least once a week
- Online food delivery market is expected to reach $200 billion by 2025
- 59% of restaurant orders are for takeout or delivery
- 36% of Americans use food delivery apps
- 67% of millennials say they love ordering takeout
- 32% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers alcohol delivery
- 48% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a drive-thru
Interpretation
In a world where instant gratification and convenience reign supreme, it seems our stomachs have become the ultimate decision-makers. With over half of consumers opting for takeout or delivery weekly, it's clear that the pathway to our hearts is through our front doors, not just our stomachs. The online food delivery market's staggering projected growth to $200 billion by 2025 suggests that the culinary experience is shifting from dining out to dining in. So, raise a toast to millennials who embrace the joy of ordering in, and for those who need that extra push to venture out, remember: alcohol delivery and drive-thrus are the new culinary cornerstones. It's a deliciously convenient world out there, and we're all just waiting for our next meal to arrive, one app click at a time.
Technology
- 40% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers mobile ordering
- 72% of diners say they check menus online before going to a restaurant
- 42% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers a loyalty program
- 33% of consumers say they use restaurant apps to place orders
- 45% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers contactless payment
- 63% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers free Wi-Fi
- 55% of consumers say they're more likely to visit a restaurant if it offers online ordering
Interpretation
In a world where dining out isn't just about the food anymore, these statistics paint a vivid picture of the modern restaurant-goer. Mobile ordering, loyalty programs, and contactless payments have become the new breadcrumbs leading patrons to their favorite eateries. Checking menus online is the new pre-dinner ritual, and free Wi-Fi has become the unsung hero of dining experiences. It seems like in this digital age, offering convenience and connectivity is the key to attracting hungry customers. So, next time you're choosing a restaurant, remember, it's not just the cuisine that matters—it's the seamless integration of technology that can make or break your dining decision.
Tipping
- The average tip in U.S. restaurants is 18.1%
- 78% of servers prefer cash tips over credit card tips
Interpretation
It seems that in the world of dining out, tipping has become a mathematical art form, with the average tip amount of 18.1% serving as the golden ratio for patrons. However, the human touch still reigns supreme in the eyes of servers, as a whopping 78% prefer cold hard cash over the digital convenience of credit card tips. So next time you find yourself calculating the perfect tip percentage, remember the power of paper bills in bringing a smile to your server's face.