Schnitzels are in and souffle is out as the cost-of-living crisis bites and diners seek more affordable, flexible dining options
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Australian diners are trading souffle for schnitzel as the cost of living crisis bites. Fine-dining restaurants across Australia have experienced a 28% decline in bookings, while bookings at mid-priced pubs and cafes are rising.
In an analysis of over 3.79m bookings and 14.8m “covers” (hospitality jargon for customers served) during 2022, reservation platform ResDiary found diners are forgoing premium-end meals where the average spend per head is $81 or more.
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