The cost of dining out with your family has significantly increased over the past five years, with popular restaurant chains like Nando’s and Pizza Express raising their prices. Menu items have seen price hikes of more than 100% between February 2021 and February 2026, driven by a 38.6% surge in food inflation during that period.
Factors such as escalating energy bills, rising wages, and supply chain expenses are putting pressure on restaurant profits, compounded by a decrease in the number of Brits eating out due to the current cost of living challenges. Additionally, hospitality businesses are grappling with higher minimum wages, increased national insurance contributions, and business rates.
Consumer advocate Martyn James has criticized the trend of major restaurant brands continuously raising prices to bolster their profits, suggesting that families are bearing the brunt of these price increases. For instance, at a London location, a family of four ordering regular mains and drinks could now spend over £75, excluding additional items like sides, dips, or desserts.
Restaurant representatives, including those from Nando’s and Pizza Express, acknowledge the financial strain on households and emphasize their efforts to maintain value for customers despite cost pressures. They highlight initiatives such as loyalty programs and set menus to provide affordable dining options.
To alleviate the impact of soaring restaurant prices, consumers are encouraged to utilize loyalty apps, take advantage of midweek deals, share dishes, avoid extras, and check for vouchers before dining out. Furthermore, preparing quick midweek meals at home and shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets can help stretch your food budget amid rising costs.
