In a recent survey conducted by the Italian restaurant Prezzo, it has been discovered that more than a third (34%) of young people aged between 18 and 24 experience what is now termed “menu anxiety” when dining out. The study found that a significant portion of this demographic when faced with the challenge of ordering at a restaurant, prefer to delegate the task to someone else. Additionally, an equal number admitted to selecting their dish based on its visual appeal for social media.
Furthermore, nearly one-third of young adults admitted to feeling nervous while placing their order, and four in ten expressed a reluctance to dine out unless they had access to the menu in advance. The primary causes of this anxiety include concerns about the cost of the meal, potential regret over their choice, and the fear of not finding a desired item on the menu.
Interestingly, the survey revealed that 20% of diners, regardless of age, prefer to have someone else order on their behalf. While for those aged 34-44, the abundance of menu options emerged as a significant source of stress. The study also highlighted that being unable to pronounce menu items led nearly a quarter of respondents to consider canceling plans. As “menu anxiety” becomes a prevalent issue, it raises questions about the evolving dynamics of dining out, particularly for the younger generation.