Are You Eating Out?

Don't let the upswing fool you. If you haven't felt the economic recession in the produce aisle or at the pump, you will very, very soon. Whatever happens to the US economy deeply affects world markets. Just take a look at the horrible price hikes on imported rice. That is only the beginning.

At lunch today, a group of us got on the subject about eating out. Of the six people there only two purchased lunch, one of which usually brings his lunch every day. The rest of us were brown bagging it.

One guy has a new baby and his in-laws have been cooking (lucky!). One gal had just tried a hot new D.C. chocolate boutique called Co Co. Sala. Even with a tapas style first course (mac and cheese topped with a chocolate covered slice of bacon $7) and mini chocolate cupcakes for dessert ($9), it was hardly the price of a tasting menu at Citronelle. The rest of us agreed that we had curbed eating out at least somewhat.

I read somewhere that restaurants aren't concerned simply because people want comfort during times of turmoil, and eating out is it. I'm not so sure. Living in the suburbs of D.C. gives a pretty good insight into middle-class American habits. And I've been able to get an immediate table at any of the chain restaurants (there's not much in the way of stellar food in Loudoun County, unless you really like Outback or Chili's) at 7pm on Friday nights. And yes, my fiance and I have cut back on eating out significantly. Our last serious splurge was Central Michel Richard for our anniversary in August, and even then it didn't break the bank.

How about you? Are you eating out in local restaurants as much as you did six months ago? If not, what kinds of places are you eating at? I'd love to hear where you're spending your hard earned cash. I just might go there myself.

Comments

[Robin]

I hear you Tyne. For a small taste of home there's a Vietnamese soup (pho) place in Ashburn we hit up regularly. Great broth, lots of food and less than $20 for the two of us. Other than that and Chipotle, we try to avoid eating out. It helps that the food in the suburbs sucks!

[TMW]

Don't eat out much at all anymore. I take my lunch to work everyday. Might hit up Subway for a $5 joint.