A Deeper Dive Why so many consumers are dining on a deal right now
Oct 22, 2025
David Portalatin, Senior Vice President and food industry advisor at Circana, dives into the rising trend of deal-seeking among consumers. He reveals that a staggering 29% of restaurant visits are now perceived as bargains, the highest since the Great Recession. The discussion highlights how inflation and higher prices are driving this behavior. Portalatin also examines how consumer needs differ between convenience and experience, and how deal types have evolved to include digital offers and loyalty promotions that cut through the noise.
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Deal Perception Is At Record Levels
- 29% of restaurant visits are perceived as a deal, a historically high rate driven by inflation and price increases.
- Consumers face a ~$6.59 premium to eat out versus eating from home, so they increasingly seek perceived value when dining out.
Consumers Prefer Bundles Over Cheap Singles
- Deal-seeking consumers want total value, not just the lowest price point.
- Premium bundled offers and combos are driving traffic growth while value-menu items see declining traffic.
Chili's Vs. McDonald's Value Comparison
- Jonathan contrasts McDonald's convenience visits with Chili's planned dining occasions to show different value propositions.
- He highlights how consumers paradoxically chose Chili's perceived value even though McDonald's is fundamentally cheaper.