GITNUXREPORT 2026

Restaurant Customer Statistics

Restaurant customers are diverse in age, income, and lifestyle, shaping modern dining trends.

Rajesh Patel

Team Lead & Senior Researcher with over 15 years of experience in market research and data analytics.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

Our Commitment to Accuracy

Rigorous fact-checking · Reputable sources · Regular updatesLearn more

Statistic 1

76% of customers rated their last restaurant experience as satisfactory or better in 2023 ACSI survey.

Statistic 2

Net Promoter Scores for fast-casual chains averaged 68 in 2022, up from 62 in 2021.

Statistic 3

82% would recommend their favorite casual diner, citing consistent quality.

Statistic 4

Only 14% reported negative experiences due to slow service in 2023.

Statistic 5

71% felt personalized service increased satisfaction by 25%.

Statistic 6

Cleanliness scored 4.6/5 average in 2022 customer feedback.

Statistic 7

65% of diners were loyal due to high food quality satisfaction.

Statistic 8

Wait times under 10 minutes satisfied 89% of QSR customers 2023.

Statistic 9

78% appreciated contactless payments for seamless experience.

Statistic 10

Atmosphere ambiance rated excellent by 67% in full-service 2022.

Statistic 11

55% complained about noise levels in trendy spots 2023.

Statistic 12

Value for money satisfied 73%, especially with promotions.

Statistic 13

84% returned after positive staff interactions in 2022.

Statistic 14

Food temperature issues affected only 8% satisfaction scores.

Statistic 15

69% praised eco-friendly practices boosting satisfaction.

Statistic 16

Online review influence led to 92% satisfaction alignment.

Statistic 17

61% satisfied with kid-friendly accommodations.

Statistic 18

Portion sizes met expectations for 75% in 2023.

Statistic 19

80% happy with allergen handling in surveys.

Statistic 20

Music choice improved mood for 58% of diners.

Statistic 21

74% satisfied post-renovation ambiance updates.

Statistic 22

Delivery accuracy rated 87% satisfactory in 2022.

Statistic 23

66% valued server knowledge on menus.

Statistic 24

Parking ease boosted satisfaction by 19%.

Statistic 25

79% pleased with beverage variety.

Statistic 26

Hygiene protocols post-COVID satisfied 91%.

Statistic 27

Average check satisfaction at 4.4/5 stars.

Statistic 28

72% recommended after pet-friendly visits.

Statistic 29

In 2023, 41% of U.S. restaurant customers were aged 25-44, representing the largest age group frequenting full-service restaurants.

Statistic 30

Women accounted for 54% of all restaurant diners in the United States during 2022, slightly outnumbering male customers.

Statistic 31

Households with annual incomes over $100,000 made up 28% of frequent restaurant-goers in 2023, compared to just 12% of the general population.

Statistic 32

35% of restaurant customers in urban areas were single individuals living alone in 2022, driving higher per-person spending.

Statistic 33

Hispanic consumers represented 19% of U.S. restaurant customers in 2023, with a 15% year-over-year increase in dining frequency.

Statistic 34

Baby boomers (aged 55+) comprised 22% of casual dining customers but only 18% of quick-service restaurant patrons in 2023.

Statistic 35

47% of Gen Z restaurant customers (aged 18-24) identified as non-binary or LGBTQ+ in a 2023 survey, influencing menu choices.

Statistic 36

Families with children under 12 made up 26% of restaurant visits on weekends in 2022, peaking at family-friendly chains.

Statistic 37

African American customers represented 13% of full-service restaurant diners in 2023, with preferences for soul food options.

Statistic 38

29% of restaurant customers in 2023 held college degrees, correlating with 20% higher average check sizes.

Statistic 39

Suburban residents accounted for 52% of all restaurant traffic in the U.S. in 2022, up from 48% pre-pandemic.

Statistic 40

38% of restaurant customers were employed in professional services occupations in 2023, dining out 2.5 times more weekly.

Statistic 41

Asian Americans made up 7% of restaurant customers but 11% of fine dining patrons in 2023.

Statistic 42

24% of customers aged 45-54 were empty-nesters, favoring upscale casual dining experiences.

Statistic 43

Low-income households (under $50k) represented 31% of QSR customers but only 15% of fine dining in 2022.

Statistic 44

42% of restaurant customers lived in households with pets, influencing pet-friendly venue choices in 2023.

Statistic 45

Veterans comprised 8% of frequent diners, with 65% preferring American cuisine restaurants.

Statistic 46

33% of customers were remote workers, increasing lunch dining by 18% post-2022.

Statistic 47

Students (college and high school) made up 14% of weekday evening diners in 2023.

Statistic 48

27% of restaurant-goers were retirees, averaging 3.2 visits per week to casual eateries.

Statistic 49

Married couples without children represented 19% of brunch diners on Sundays in 2022.

Statistic 50

36% of customers identified as health-conscious, skewing towards urban millennials.

Statistic 51

Blue-collar workers were 25% of QSR customers, dining primarily for convenience.

Statistic 52

21% of diners were new parents (with infants), favoring family chains.

Statistic 53

Immigrants and first-generation Americans comprised 16% of ethnic cuisine customers.

Statistic 54

44% of customers aged 35-44 had gym memberships, preferring low-calorie options.

Statistic 55

Single parents headed 11% of family dining parties in 2023.

Statistic 56

30% of restaurant customers were freelancers, boosting midday traffic.

Statistic 57

LGBTQ+ individuals were 9% of total customers, 22% of fine dining.

Statistic 58

26% of diners were over 65, favoring early bird specials.

Statistic 59

On average, U.S. restaurant customers dined out 4.3 times per month in 2023, down from 5.1 in 2019.

Statistic 60

58% of customers visited quick-service restaurants weekly in 2022, compared to 32% for full-service.

Statistic 61

Weekend dining accounted for 42% of all restaurant visits in 2023, with Saturday peaking at 25%.

Statistic 62

67% of customers preferred dine-in over takeout in 2023, up 12% from 2022.

Statistic 63

Lunch was the most popular meal time, representing 38% of visits in 2022.

Statistic 64

49% of diners used loyalty programs during visits in 2023, increasing visit frequency by 22%.

Statistic 65

Groups of 4 or more made up 28% of full-service traffic on Fridays in 2023.

Statistic 66

73% of customers arrived between 6-9 PM for dinner in urban areas in 2022.

Statistic 67

Solo diners increased to 24% of total visits post-pandemic in 2023.

Statistic 68

55% of customers dined out for special occasions quarterly in 2023.

Statistic 69

Breakfast visits grew 15% to 18% of total traffic in 2022 among millennials.

Statistic 70

62% preferred table service over counter service in casual dining 2023.

Statistic 71

Repeat visits to the same chain averaged 3.8 times per month per customer in 2022.

Statistic 72

41% dined out spontaneously without reservations in 2023.

Statistic 73

Holiday seasons boosted visits by 35%, with December at 28% above average.

Statistic 74

52% of customers avoided peak hours, preferring off-peak dining discounts.

Statistic 75

Couples dining represented 31% of evening traffic midweek in 2022.

Statistic 76

68% checked menus online before visiting in 2023, influencing 40% of choices.

Statistic 77

Vegetarian diners visited 2.1 times weekly on average in 2023.

Statistic 78

37% brought children to restaurants monthly, focusing on kid menus.

Statistic 79

Late-night dining (after 10 PM) was 9% of total visits in urban 2022.

Statistic 80

64% of customers tipped in cash, averaging 18.5% of bill in 2023.

Statistic 81

Business diners averaged 1.7 lunches per week in 2022.

Statistic 82

45% used ride-sharing to restaurants, correlating with alcohol consumption.

Statistic 83

71% of frequent diners (5+ times/month) were brand loyal in 2023.

Statistic 84

29% of customers dined outdoors when available in summer 2022.

Statistic 85

Poultry dishes were chosen by 34% of customers in full-service restaurants in 2023.

Statistic 86

48% preferred plant-based alternatives over meat in casual dining 2022.

Statistic 87

Italian cuisine topped preferences at 22% of diners in 2023 surveys.

Statistic 88

56% sought gluten-free options, with 23% strictly adhering in 2023.

Statistic 89

Seafood selections rose 12% to 17% of entrees chosen in coastal areas 2022.

Statistic 90

41% favored spicy flavors, especially among Gen Z in 2023.

Statistic 91

Burgers remained top at 29% of QSR orders in 2022 nationwide.

Statistic 92

52% chose salads as starters, driven by health trends in 2023.

Statistic 93

Mexican food was preferred by 19% , peaking in Southwest states.

Statistic 94

63% avoided nuts due to allergies, influencing dessert menus 2022.

Statistic 95

Vegan options were selected by 11% , up 28% from 2020 in 2023.

Statistic 96

37% preferred grilled over fried proteins in 2023 surveys.

Statistic 97

Asian fusion dishes appealed to 15% of urban millennials 2022.

Statistic 98

44% chose low-carb meals, especially keto dieters in 2023.

Statistic 99

Pasta dishes were 16% of Italian restaurant orders in 2022.

Statistic 100

51% favored locally sourced ingredients when disclosed on menus.

Statistic 101

Steak preferences held at 21% among men over 40 in 2023.

Statistic 102

28% selected sushi/seaweed options weekly in 2022.

Statistic 103

Desserts were skipped by 39% opting for healthier sorbets.

Statistic 104

46% preferred organic produce in salads and sides 2023.

Statistic 105

Barbecue ribs chosen by 14% in Southern regions 2022.

Statistic 106

35% avoided dairy, boosting plant milks in beverages.

Statistic 107

Chicken wings surged to 18% during sports events 2023.

Statistic 108

42% chose fusion tacos over traditional in 2022.

Statistic 109

Smoothies and bowls preferred by 13% for breakfast 2023.

Statistic 110

49% selected wine pairings with dinners in upscale spots.

Statistic 111

The average restaurant customer spent $18.50 per person on QSR meals in 2023.

Statistic 112

Full-service restaurant checks averaged $42 per party of two in 2022.

Statistic 113

Alcohol added 22% to average bills in casual dining 2023.

Statistic 114

Tips averaged 19.2% of pre-tax bills across U.S. restaurants in 2022.

Statistic 115

Delivery orders boosted spending by 15% to $28 average in 2023.

Statistic 116

Fine dining saw $120+ per person spends, up 8% YoY in 2022.

Statistic 117

Appetizers increased checks by 18% when upsold successfully.

Statistic 118

Loyalty members spent 31% more per visit than non-members 2023.

Statistic 119

Weekend brunch checks averaged $25 per person in 2022.

Statistic 120

Dessert upsells captured 12% of additional spend.

Statistic 121

Online orders averaged $22 vs $19 dine-in in QSR 2023.

Statistic 122

Groups of 4 spent $110 total on average full-service.

Statistic 123

Inflation drove 11% spend increase despite flat visits 2022.

Statistic 124

Gen Z spent 14% less per check but more frequently.

Statistic 125

Credit card usage at 78% correlated with higher spends.

Statistic 126

Holiday meals averaged $65 per person in 2023.

Statistic 127

Takeout packaging added $2.50 average to bills.

Statistic 128

Premium coffee upsells added $4 to breakfast checks.

Statistic 129

Families spent 25% more with kids' meals included.

Statistic 130

Solo diners averaged $22, focusing on entrees only.

Statistic 131

Wine by the glass boosted spends by 16% evening.

1/131

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While restaurants might feel like a universal experience, the modern American diner is actually a fascinating mosaic of diverse habits and identities—from Gen Z patrons driving bold new menu trends to suburban empty-nesters seeking upscale casual escapes.

Key Takeaways

In 2023, 41% of U.S. restaurant customers were aged 25-44, representing the largest age group frequenting full-service restaurants.
Women accounted for 54% of all restaurant diners in the United States during 2022, slightly outnumbering male customers.
Households with annual incomes over $100,000 made up 28% of frequent restaurant-goers in 2023, compared to just 12% of the general population.
On average, U.S. restaurant customers dined out 4.3 times per month in 2023, down from 5.1 in 2019.
58% of customers visited quick-service restaurants weekly in 2022, compared to 32% for full-service.
Weekend dining accounted for 42% of all restaurant visits in 2023, with Saturday peaking at 25%.
Poultry dishes were chosen by 34% of customers in full-service restaurants in 2023.
48% preferred plant-based alternatives over meat in casual dining 2022.
Italian cuisine topped preferences at 22% of diners in 2023 surveys.
76% of customers rated their last restaurant experience as satisfactory or better in 2023 ACSI survey.
Net Promoter Scores for fast-casual chains averaged 68 in 2022, up from 62 in 2021.
82% would recommend their favorite casual diner, citing consistent quality.
The average restaurant customer spent $18.50 per person on QSR meals in 2023.
Full-service restaurant checks averaged $42 per party of two in 2022.
Alcohol added 22% to average bills in casual dining 2023.

Restaurant customers are diverse in age, income, and lifestyle, shaping modern dining trends.

Customer Satisfaction

76% of customers rated their last restaurant experience as satisfactory or better in 2023 ACSI survey.
Net Promoter Scores for fast-casual chains averaged 68 in 2022, up from 62 in 2021.
82% would recommend their favorite casual diner, citing consistent quality.
Only 14% reported negative experiences due to slow service in 2023.
71% felt personalized service increased satisfaction by 25%.
Cleanliness scored 4.6/5 average in 2022 customer feedback.
65% of diners were loyal due to high food quality satisfaction.
Wait times under 10 minutes satisfied 89% of QSR customers 2023.
78% appreciated contactless payments for seamless experience.
Atmosphere ambiance rated excellent by 67% in full-service 2022.
55% complained about noise levels in trendy spots 2023.
Value for money satisfied 73%, especially with promotions.
84% returned after positive staff interactions in 2022.
Food temperature issues affected only 8% satisfaction scores.
69% praised eco-friendly practices boosting satisfaction.
Online review influence led to 92% satisfaction alignment.
61% satisfied with kid-friendly accommodations.
Portion sizes met expectations for 75% in 2023.
80% happy with allergen handling in surveys.
Music choice improved mood for 58% of diners.
74% satisfied post-renovation ambiance updates.
Delivery accuracy rated 87% satisfactory in 2022.
66% valued server knowledge on menus.
Parking ease boosted satisfaction by 19%.
79% pleased with beverage variety.
Hygiene protocols post-COVID satisfied 91%.
Average check satisfaction at 4.4/5 stars.
72% recommended after pet-friendly visits.

Customer Satisfaction Interpretation

While restaurants have apparently cracked the code on cleanliness and contactless payments, the quest for the perfect meal remains a delicate dance of hot food, quiet conversation, and not having to circle the block like a shark hunting for a parking spot.

Demographics

In 2023, 41% of U.S. restaurant customers were aged 25-44, representing the largest age group frequenting full-service restaurants.
Women accounted for 54% of all restaurant diners in the United States during 2022, slightly outnumbering male customers.
Households with annual incomes over $100,000 made up 28% of frequent restaurant-goers in 2023, compared to just 12% of the general population.
35% of restaurant customers in urban areas were single individuals living alone in 2022, driving higher per-person spending.
Hispanic consumers represented 19% of U.S. restaurant customers in 2023, with a 15% year-over-year increase in dining frequency.
Baby boomers (aged 55+) comprised 22% of casual dining customers but only 18% of quick-service restaurant patrons in 2023.
47% of Gen Z restaurant customers (aged 18-24) identified as non-binary or LGBTQ+ in a 2023 survey, influencing menu choices.
Families with children under 12 made up 26% of restaurant visits on weekends in 2022, peaking at family-friendly chains.
African American customers represented 13% of full-service restaurant diners in 2023, with preferences for soul food options.
29% of restaurant customers in 2023 held college degrees, correlating with 20% higher average check sizes.
Suburban residents accounted for 52% of all restaurant traffic in the U.S. in 2022, up from 48% pre-pandemic.
38% of restaurant customers were employed in professional services occupations in 2023, dining out 2.5 times more weekly.
Asian Americans made up 7% of restaurant customers but 11% of fine dining patrons in 2023.
24% of customers aged 45-54 were empty-nesters, favoring upscale casual dining experiences.
Low-income households (under $50k) represented 31% of QSR customers but only 15% of fine dining in 2022.
42% of restaurant customers lived in households with pets, influencing pet-friendly venue choices in 2023.
Veterans comprised 8% of frequent diners, with 65% preferring American cuisine restaurants.
33% of customers were remote workers, increasing lunch dining by 18% post-2022.
Students (college and high school) made up 14% of weekday evening diners in 2023.
27% of restaurant-goers were retirees, averaging 3.2 visits per week to casual eateries.
Married couples without children represented 19% of brunch diners on Sundays in 2022.
36% of customers identified as health-conscious, skewing towards urban millennials.
Blue-collar workers were 25% of QSR customers, dining primarily for convenience.
21% of diners were new parents (with infants), favoring family chains.
Immigrants and first-generation Americans comprised 16% of ethnic cuisine customers.
44% of customers aged 35-44 had gym memberships, preferring low-calorie options.
Single parents headed 11% of family dining parties in 2023.
30% of restaurant customers were freelancers, boosting midday traffic.
LGBTQ+ individuals were 9% of total customers, 22% of fine dining.
26% of diners were over 65, favoring early bird specials.

Demographics Interpretation

While millennials and Gen X may dominate the tables, the modern American restaurant is a mosaic where affluent suburbanites, health-conscious urbanites, diverse Gen Z, and boomers seeking early-bird specials all converge, each spending according to their life stage, identity, and disposable income.

Dining Habits

On average, U.S. restaurant customers dined out 4.3 times per month in 2023, down from 5.1 in 2019.
58% of customers visited quick-service restaurants weekly in 2022, compared to 32% for full-service.
Weekend dining accounted for 42% of all restaurant visits in 2023, with Saturday peaking at 25%.
67% of customers preferred dine-in over takeout in 2023, up 12% from 2022.
Lunch was the most popular meal time, representing 38% of visits in 2022.
49% of diners used loyalty programs during visits in 2023, increasing visit frequency by 22%.
Groups of 4 or more made up 28% of full-service traffic on Fridays in 2023.
73% of customers arrived between 6-9 PM for dinner in urban areas in 2022.
Solo diners increased to 24% of total visits post-pandemic in 2023.
55% of customers dined out for special occasions quarterly in 2023.
Breakfast visits grew 15% to 18% of total traffic in 2022 among millennials.
62% preferred table service over counter service in casual dining 2023.
Repeat visits to the same chain averaged 3.8 times per month per customer in 2022.
41% dined out spontaneously without reservations in 2023.
Holiday seasons boosted visits by 35%, with December at 28% above average.
52% of customers avoided peak hours, preferring off-peak dining discounts.
Couples dining represented 31% of evening traffic midweek in 2022.
68% checked menus online before visiting in 2023, influencing 40% of choices.
Vegetarian diners visited 2.1 times weekly on average in 2023.
37% brought children to restaurants monthly, focusing on kid menus.
Late-night dining (after 10 PM) was 9% of total visits in urban 2022.
64% of customers tipped in cash, averaging 18.5% of bill in 2023.
Business diners averaged 1.7 lunches per week in 2022.
45% used ride-sharing to restaurants, correlating with alcohol consumption.
71% of frequent diners (5+ times/month) were brand loyal in 2023.
29% of customers dined outdoors when available in summer 2022.

Dining Habits Interpretation

Americans are dining out a bit less overall, but when they do, they’re often choosing quicker, loyal, and decidedly social experiences, with weekends, dine-in service, and online menus firmly in charge of their appetites.

Food Preferences

Poultry dishes were chosen by 34% of customers in full-service restaurants in 2023.
48% preferred plant-based alternatives over meat in casual dining 2022.
Italian cuisine topped preferences at 22% of diners in 2023 surveys.
56% sought gluten-free options, with 23% strictly adhering in 2023.
Seafood selections rose 12% to 17% of entrees chosen in coastal areas 2022.
41% favored spicy flavors, especially among Gen Z in 2023.
Burgers remained top at 29% of QSR orders in 2022 nationwide.
52% chose salads as starters, driven by health trends in 2023.
Mexican food was preferred by 19% , peaking in Southwest states.
63% avoided nuts due to allergies, influencing dessert menus 2022.
Vegan options were selected by 11% , up 28% from 2020 in 2023.
37% preferred grilled over fried proteins in 2023 surveys.
Asian fusion dishes appealed to 15% of urban millennials 2022.
44% chose low-carb meals, especially keto dieters in 2023.
Pasta dishes were 16% of Italian restaurant orders in 2022.
51% favored locally sourced ingredients when disclosed on menus.
Steak preferences held at 21% among men over 40 in 2023.
28% selected sushi/seaweed options weekly in 2022.
Desserts were skipped by 39% opting for healthier sorbets.
46% preferred organic produce in salads and sides 2023.
Barbecue ribs chosen by 14% in Southern regions 2022.
35% avoided dairy, boosting plant milks in beverages.
Chicken wings surged to 18% during sports events 2023.
42% chose fusion tacos over traditional in 2022.
Smoothies and bowls preferred by 13% for breakfast 2023.
49% selected wine pairings with dinners in upscale spots.

Food Preferences Interpretation

The modern diner is a paradox of cravings, ordering the same classic burger nationwide while their local menu whispers a complex story of rising plant-based preferences, serious dietary restrictions, and a bold global palate that demands both gluten-free pasta and extra-spicy fusion tacos.

Spending Patterns

The average restaurant customer spent $18.50 per person on QSR meals in 2023.
Full-service restaurant checks averaged $42 per party of two in 2022.
Alcohol added 22% to average bills in casual dining 2023.
Tips averaged 19.2% of pre-tax bills across U.S. restaurants in 2022.
Delivery orders boosted spending by 15% to $28 average in 2023.
Fine dining saw $120+ per person spends, up 8% YoY in 2022.
Appetizers increased checks by 18% when upsold successfully.
Loyalty members spent 31% more per visit than non-members 2023.
Weekend brunch checks averaged $25 per person in 2022.
Dessert upsells captured 12% of additional spend.
Online orders averaged $22 vs $19 dine-in in QSR 2023.
Groups of 4 spent $110 total on average full-service.
Inflation drove 11% spend increase despite flat visits 2022.
Gen Z spent 14% less per check but more frequently.
Credit card usage at 78% correlated with higher spends.
Holiday meals averaged $65 per person in 2023.
Takeout packaging added $2.50 average to bills.
Premium coffee upsells added $4 to breakfast checks.
Families spent 25% more with kids' meals included.
Solo diners averaged $22, focusing on entrees only.
Wine by the glass boosted spends by 16% evening.

Spending Patterns Interpretation

We sip, we tip, we upsell, and we're somehow now paying both for premium coffee and for a cardboard box to take it home, all while Gen Z orders more but younger wallets keep us sipping strategically.

Sources & References

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