Roughly 63 percent of consumers report that atmosphere and experience are top-of-mind when dining out, according to a survey from foodservice distributor US Foods.
The 2023 Diner Dispatch survey considered input from 1,000 respondents that reflect the U.S. population and its results give insights into dining preferences, favorite restaurant types, ordering habits, tipping practices, and what this means for foodservice operators across the country, according to the company.
“As one of the largest foodservice distributors in America, we are excited to share a variety of diner trends shaping the future of the restaurant industry today,” said Jim Osborne, SVP of customer strategy and innovation at US Foods, in a statement. “Aligned with our promise to help restaurant operators ‘Make It,’ our inaugural 2023 Diner Dispatch survey provides essential insights to help restaurant operators make informed business decisions to drive their continued success.”
Takeout and delivery continue to lead the category, with 57 percent of respondents preferring to order rather than dine in. Moreover, they are more likely to choose takeout from casual restaurants. For operators, having optimized takeout and delivery capabilities is a key driver of profitability, said US Foods.
When dining out, casual dining experiences reign supreme, followed by fast food, fast casual, contemporary casual, and bars and grills. The survey also found that approximately 75 percent prefer physical menus to QR codes when seated. For operators, going back to basics with their menu and rethinking the front-of-house experience can offer enhanced diner satisfaction, according to US Foods.
Food price also contributes to how often consumers eat out, and when the check comes, diners are spending more on tips, as 20 percent becomes the new normal. Half of Americans spend less than $20 per person per meal and a monthly average of $166 per person dining out.
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