Dining Out Declines

Looming recession drives Americans out of the restaurant, back into the kitchenThe restaurant industry is taking a hit as economic struggles plague the country. New consumer research from Mintel reveals that over half (54%) of people who dine out regularly are cutting back on restaurant spending because of the economy.Rising gas and food prices, home foreclosures and a fear of recession have caused many Americans to curb out-to-eat spending. Seventy percent of those trying to cut back are saving money by going out to eat less, rather than by choosing cheaper entrees or dining at less expensive restaurants, reports Mintel.