Family dining out expenses have been noticeably on the rise, making a simple meal feel as costly as a short getaway. Major restaurant chains like Nando’s and Pizza Express have significantly increased their prices over the last five years. Certain popular menu items have seen price hikes exceeding 100% from February 2021 to February 2026.
During this period, food inflation has surged by 38.6%. Restaurants attribute this surge to escalating energy costs, higher wages, and increased supply chain expenses, all of which are squeezing profit margins. Moreover, the ongoing cost of living crisis has led to a decrease in the number of Brits dining out.
In addition to these factors, hospitality businesses point out the impact of elevated minimum wages, rising national insurance contributions, and business rates. While some experts argue that customers are being unduly burdened, saying that many renowned high street eateries have adopted a habit of implementing price hikes to boost profits.
For instance, at a London branch, a family of four ordering standard main dishes, two sides each, and soft drinks can expect to spend over £75, with the bill exceeding £90 for larger portions, excluding extras or desserts.
Acknowledging the financial pressure on household budgets, Nando’s and Pizza Express representatives emphasize their efforts to minimize cost impacts on customers while maintaining value. Despite facing economic challenges affecting the industry, both establishments aim to provide accessible dining options and loyalty programs to offer guests value and quality.
To counter the escalating restaurant prices, consumers are advised to leverage loyalty apps, seek midweek deals, share sides, avoid add-ons, and explore voucher sites before dining out. Additionally, opting for quick midweek meals and shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets can aid in stretching your food budget further.
