7 ways diners are cutting the check — from skipping drinks to choosing carryout

The useful part

The restaurant technology provider's report, based on nationwide surveys of 3,000 U.S. consumers conducted between February and July 2026, reveals that two-thirds (67%) of consumers are spending less on dining out than they did a year ago. Rather than eliminating restaurant visits entirely, guests are increasingly opting for quick-service, fast-casual, and casual concepts while modifying their ordering behavior to stretch their dollars.

How it works

• "What that tells us is consumers are spending intentionally, not reluctantly.
• Consumers are looking for value and incentives to come back." Tipping pullback Tightening budgets are also impacting restaurant staff.
• The study found that 40% of consumers are tipping less this year, with 78% of those individuals specifically reducing tips at restaurants and bars.
• At fast-casual concepts, 19% of diners report tipping less than 10%, while 14% tip 10%, 11% tip 15%, 6% tip...

Details worth keeping

Restaurants have pushed menu prices about as far as they can go.