Rising living costs are changing how Canadians choose to eat out. CTV News Atlantic
A new report shows many Canadians now eat at home more. Three out of four people say they cut back on restaurant meals because of rising costs. Young Canadians, aged 18 to 34, cut back even more—81 per cent say they dine out less.
Survey Shows Spending Shift
People once spent more at full‑service restaurants than fast food. That changed this year. Now, each person spends about $1,135 at quick‑service restaurants. Spending at full‑service eateries fell to around $1,035 per person.
Snacks Replace Meals
The report finds 65 per cent of Canadians skip a full meal once a month and eat a snack instead. Younger people do this even more, sometimes weekly.
Dining with Purpose
Chef Nico Schuermans of Vancouver’s Chambar sees a change in how people dine out. “People are more intentional when they dine out now,” he says. He adds that guests expect more out of a restaurant visit today.
Lunch Over Dinner
As workers return to offices, quick‑service lunch traffic rose 7.6 per cent. Lunch and breakfast now beat dinner for many people. Brunch became a special meal for social meeting. Chambar added new breakfast options to serve this trend.
Drinking Habits Shift
Forty‑one per cent of Canadians say they drink less alcohol this past year. Older generations lead the change. Baby Boomers and Gen X reduced drinking most. Bars now feature low or zero alcohol drinks that still feel fun and interesting.
Hope for the Industry
Although data looks concerning, Schuermans stays hopeful. He believes restaurants will adapt as people change habits. He says our need to gather and share food will always matter.
“Eating out nourishes more than your body. It creates connection, with your community … with the people you share a table with,” he says.
