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Survey shows Americans eating out less, choosing less expensive restaurants
Surveys of American households are confirming what many Dayton-area restaurateurs already suspected: Americans are eating out less, and when they do go out, they’re choosing less expensive restaurants. That’s according to this news release from Booz & Co., which conducted the survey entitled “Consumer Spending in the Economic Downturn”. Researchers surveyed 1,00 households around the country, the company’s news release says.
Here’s an excerpt of the survey’s key findings:
Consumers are reducing “away from home” spending, primarily by changing their dining habits.
Of those polled, 43% of respondents are eating out less, 39% are choosing less expensive restaurants, and 35% are packing their own lunch for work, compared to six months ago.
Is that the case here in the Dayton area? Are YOU eating out less, or choosing less expensive restaurants? Let us know by clicking on the “post your comment” link below …
Permalink | Comments (14) | Post your comment | Categories: Restaurant industry news
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By Kert
October 21, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
Why should I spend money outside of my home where the taxes from my meal aids the represive government of Ohio? To take the rights away from business owners was wrong. Besides the way this government is in Ohio next thing you know if you want desert after your meal they will bring a scale to the table to make sure you not over weight before they will serve you. Ah, big brother taking care of all of us. I can’t wait to quit my job and let the Feds spread me the wealth(Well if Barry is elected).
By Smokers are stupid and smell
October 20, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
You drive to another state in order to smoke after you eat…what an idiot! Are you that desperate to light up that you can’t wait until you finish dinner and then walk outside? That is so pathetic it’s insane.
By Diana
October 20, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
I don’t go out as much as I used to because everything is getting higher everywhere. I don’t think it is a republican or democrat thing, it is a bad time right now for businesses and people alike. I do love the no smoking in Ohio now because I have asthma. I used to only be able to go to one or two places even though they had smoking or non it still made me sick because it effects anyone with any health problems. I think things will get better soon for all of us.
By Sarah
October 20, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
My family dines at restaurants very little lately. Prices have increased everywhere! We eat more often at home because we wish to eat healthy meals; we know what we put in our food. At restaurants, we don’t know if they are placing lard in our food which can cause great cardiovascular damage. However, once in a while we splurge on expensive food at a fine dining establishment. My husband loves the Ribs King!
By No Effect
October 20, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Not eating out as much anymore, but that is a decision to try and eat healthier in general, it has nothing to do with the economy. I can afford it but don’t want it.
By JIMBO
October 20, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
Yeah, nothing like a smoke after an unhealthy meal…So you like to smoke that much? Wow, Indiana huh? Well, I’m glad I can take my babies to a restaurant and not have them going home smelling like the Marlboro Man…in Ohio.
By Tim
October 20, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
Can you imagine trying to have an intelligent conversation, even worse, living with repubssux?
By MinimalChange
October 20, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
No less often, but trying to throw in some cheaper places. For example, this weekend we went to China Buffet instead of Mr. Lee’s. There is certainly no comparison in quality, but it was 2-3x less expensive. Some studies actually indicate dining out and going to movies is increased. Families are increasing this kind of activity instead of a costly vacation away from home.
By joe
October 20, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
We go out just as often but we drive to Indiana where we can enjoy a cigarette after our meal.
By repubssux
October 20, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
yes because of the republican party, thanks douche bags!
By my2cents
October 20, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
We eat out SMARTER but not less often. McDonalds has specials every day-Tues Qtr Pndr 2-$3, Lee’s on Wed 3pc for $3.99, Subway rewards card. Coupons and specials have become routine but being a working busy family, if we plan right we can eat for just as cheap as fixing something.
By EdyLynn
October 20, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
We used to get chicken dinners at Famous Recipe on Wednesday nights and China Buffet once a month but even tho’ they’re cheap places we can’t afford them now. I used to stop for a burger while between stores while shopping and I rarely do that unless I’m getting shakey. In fact, I don’t go shopping like I used to so it’s not a factor. I’ve been to a few work related gatherings where different restaurants catered them and if this is what the pricey places are wanting $20 or more for a meal then I need to go in the restaurant business. I cook better than that!I can’t believe anyone would try to open a restaurant now.
By mtgolflady
October 20, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Eating out at restaurants where you get food a at counter - less expensive and no tipping - Chipotle, City BBQ, Marions, Panera, Penn Station, etc. We are also drinking water and saving $2-3 per person.
By mbucha4
October 20, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
We are eating out less, but I wouldn’t say that we are choosing less expensive restaurants. We cut the cost down by choosing water to drink instead of pop (or soda..) and skipping the appetizer on occasion.