April 21st 2025.
The younger generation, known as Gen Z, is making waves in the American dining scene. They have a different approach to dining out, opting to split meals or order smaller portions to save money. This trend has been highlighted in a recent survey by Eater and Vox Media, which compared the dining habits of different generations. It showed that with inflation and tariffs on the rise, more Gen Zers are looking for ways to cut costs while still enjoying a night out.
Mia Jones, a 26-year-old growth strategist, explained that when dining out, her and her friends will often share appetizers and entrees so they can try a variety of dishes. For them, it's not just about saving money, but also about making the most of the occasion and trying new things. This mentality is also reflected in their choice of drinks. More and more Gen Zers are opting for non-alcoholic or low-alcohol beverages, not only to save money, but also to promote a healthier lifestyle and avoid alcohol dependency.
Barry McGowan, CEO of Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão, noted that this shift towards sobriety is something the industry is paying close attention to. He believes that Gen Zers are more conscious of value and are changing the landscape of alcohol consumption. This generation is also more likely to discover new restaurants through social media, rather than traditional methods. Social media platforms, such as TikTok, have become a go-to for Gen Zers when it comes to finding new dining spots.
Brooke Arterberry, a researcher at the University of Michigan, believes that this change in socializing and alcohol consumption can be attributed to various factors. These include the pressure to succeed, increased awareness of the dangers of drinking, and even changes in parenting styles. Gen Zers are also more cautious when it comes to where they spend their money and are more likely to trust reviews from social media than from older generations.
In fact, some Gen Zers like Mia Jones won't even consider dining at a restaurant that hasn't been featured on social media. She jokingly stated that she doesn't trust the taste buds of "boomers" and relies on her fellow Gen Zers to provide honest reviews. This shows the influence that social media has on where this generation chooses to dine.
Ultimately, Gen Z is reshaping the American dining experience in more ways than one. From their approach to saving money and trying new foods, to their preference for non-alcoholic beverages and reliance on social media for restaurant recommendations, this generation is making its mark on the food industry. And with their strong drive for success and access to vast amounts of information, it's safe to say that their impact will continue to be felt in the years to come.
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