Stats satisfy state’s restaurateurs
WE spoil mum more than dad, experience our happiest dining in September and prefer cheap and cheerful to fine fare.
These are just some of the findings of the Dimmi Australian Dining Index, revealing what’s really on our minds (and in our stomachs) when it comes to enjoying a meal out.
The grim economic outlook and spate of fine-dining restaurant closures has been reflected in a drop in dining out at the high end over the past year.
Only 16 per cent of diners now spend more than $90 a head, compared with 20 per cent a year ago.
However, we are still spending an average of $60 a person when we head out for a meal.
Dimmi founder and CEO Stevan Premutico says the index’s results reflect a clear shift in the cuisine scene.
“We’re definitely seeing a move away from fine dining towards value for money,” he says.
“Around $50 seems to be the new threshold as diners seek out more casual options that offer great service and good food and wine at a reasonable price.”
Don’t let the cult of the celebrity chef convince you that it’s all about the food. Service and value for money are moving up the ranks when it comes to the most important part of a dinner out.
Perhaps we need a “master server” reality show to emphasise the importance of great service?
The index also suggests that the further in advance you book, the more likely you are to pull a no show.
Valentine’s Day remains the most popular day to dine out, while Mother’s Day eclipses Father’s Day as the second most popular.
Tech savvy diners are behind a 67 per cent annual increase in online bookings.
Ospend an average of $56 each on a meal out; book for an average of 3.1 people; prefer to nosh in Brisbane City, Surfers Paradise, South Brisbane, Broadbeach and Milton; love Modern Australian, Italian, European and Asian fare.