Restaurant prices continue to climb, which has more Americans rethinking where they go for dinner. Some still stop to pick up a burrito or bowl on the way home, but it turns out, that has less to do with the cost or the food itself. What it really all comes down to is that we’re tired, according to new research.
A report from Morning Consult finds that the biggest motivator for fast-casual dining is actually exhaustion. Their data shows that 40% of trips to these restaurants happen because of simple fatigue. “Fast casual isn’t chosen for adventure,” the report shares. “It’s chosen for relief.”
- Americans also count on fast-casual dining for quick lunches on work breaks, casual meals with friends and to refuel on road-trip stops.
- The report finds that 58% of fast-casual customers are Gen Z or millennials, and they don’t want to be bothered with having to figure out what to make for dinner.
- In general, fast-casual diners tend to be more optimistic than the rest of the population, but the biggest driver for them with these meals now is not having to make decisions.
- After exhaustion, 35% say they just want food that’s affordable and filling.
- And a third enjoy the convenience of picking up something during their commute home from work.
- Almost 40% of fast-casual diners are parents, who are already busy juggling their life and schedule, as well as their kids’.
- When we’re too tired to cook, Five Guys and Raising Cane’s are top choices for takeout.
- Panda Express is number one for those looking for an affordable, yet filling meal.
- And those just picking up dinner on the way home are most likely to stop at Raising Cane’s or Panda Express.
Source: NY Post