Research
June 02, 2026
Quarterly Consumer Insights Survey
Q2 2026
The National Restaurant Association’s latest Quarterly Consumer Insights Survey highlights a complex and evolving consumer landscape. While many Americans report feeling positive about their personal finances, underlying pressures—from elevated living costs to geopolitical uncertainty—continue to shape spending behavior.
For restaurant operators, the findings reveal a balance of resilience and caution: consumers still prioritize dining but are increasingly mindful of how much they spend and where.
Top Findings:
- Financial sentiment remains split: Two-thirds of consumers report positive financial well-being, but broader sentiment indicators point to rising caution and economic uncertainty.
- Spending pressures are mounting: 35% of consumers regularly spend more than they earn, with nearly half doing so at least occasionally, highlighting growing financial strain.
- Restaurants remain a priority: 56% of consumers dined out at a restaurant in the past week, reinforcing restaurants as the top discretionary spending category.
- Consumers are pulling back on restaurant spending: 36% report spending less at restaurants than last quarter, with younger consumers leading the decline.
- Value-driven behavior is increasing: More consumers are trading down—ordering fewer add-ons and choosing less expensive options when dining out.
Download the full findings of the Q2 2026 Quarterly Consumer Insights Survey