By Emma Balment In a market where the dining room increasingly belongs to the consumer, winning the off-premise will become just as important as winning the dine-in one for today’s restaurant operators. Traditionally in Canada, the majority of orders were consumed at the restaurant, whether full-service or quick-service – but things have changed. Years ago, […]
Foodservice continues to evolve, and the definition of value for many diners has shifted. While the benefit of drive-thrus was originally a speedier experience, these days, convenience is even more important to consumers. Today’s diners value food quality most (45 per cent), followed very closely by convenience (44 per cent), and speed (34 per cent) […]
By Julien Brault Whether it was grabbing a coffee, catching up with friends, celebrating a birthday, or ordering takeout after a long workday, restaurant meals were simply part of the everyday routine. In today’s economy, that decision often comes with a quick mental calculation. Is dining out worth it? Would that money be better put […]
By Emma Balment Today’s restaurant operators and suppliers are operating in what is being described as ‘The Endurance Economy.’ Cost of living is the top issue facing Canadians today. Price has become the determining factor for purchase, and consumers are predominantly pessimistic about both short and long-term financial wellbeing. There is hope on the horizon […]
With patio season in full swing, operational efficiency is more important than ever for restaurateurs. Patio sales can represent up to 49 per cent of total sales during the busy season, and with 81 per cent of restaurants now offering outdoor dining, the competition is fierce. According to TouchBistro’s 2026 Patio Season Guide for Restaurants, […]
As restaurants continue to compete for diner dollars with higher value, lower prices, and unique offerings, is this approach viable over the long haul? Many operators have adopted a strategy focusing on value to reflect the unstable economy and thrifty consumer trend, but this may be a shortsighted approach, offering short-term relief and higher revenues […]
Restaurant diners are focused on value and experience, and that means that some operators need to adapt to meet the needs of their customers. As part of that process, many restaurants are revamping their loyalty programs to better address those diner preferences. Today’s consumers are being bombarded with regular LTOs, value propositions, and loyalty programs, […]
Most restaurants are building interesting menus and focusing on value for their guests, and these are likely the factors that likely matter most, but there are a few extra steps operators can take to stand out from the competition. Learning about what’s most important to your guests can help your restaurant build a strong connection […]
Dining out is a popular choice on Mother’s Day, offering restaurant operators the opportunity to drive traffic and raise revenues as groups gather for the occasion. The holiday was restaurants’ biggest day of the year in 2025, increasing restaurant traffic 12 per cent year over year, and restaurateurs need to plan for another busy day […]
Spring is in the air and consumer behaviour is shifting. As winter thaws, Canadian diners are looking to get out and enjoy time together over a shared meal. What’s changing about the way that diners plan their gatherings, enjoy their meals, and is solo dining still popular? OpenTable offers some data into what dining will look […]
