After Covid-19, restaurants have started to make their businesses more take-out-focused instead of dining-in-oriented. The overwhelming convenience of take-out food has boosted take-out dining to be America’s preferred dining method according to resurantbuisness.com. This transformation shows a response to growing consumer preferences, marked by a desire for convenience and flexibility in the way people engage with food establishments. While some people think that the shift to take-out is better, some people think that this change isn’t beneficial.
Thomas Coleman (10) thinks that businesses that provide take-out could potentially lose profits.
“I think that basing your business off take out only is not beneficial because then there are no people coming in and eating at your restaurant. This could lead to a potential decline in customer service,” Thomas said.
This shift from dine-in to take-out in the restaurant industry has also been influenced by the
role of online services. Technological advancements, particularly the abundance of mobile apps and online platforms, have played a crucial role in reshaping the dining experience. These digital tools have made it easier for consumers to engage with restaurants in diverse ways, developing a seamless transition toward take-out services. The convenience afforded by online platforms allows customers to peruse diverse menus, place orders, and arrange for deliveries, all from the palm of their hands.
Janasia Roberts (11) feels that take-out saves time and makes eating more convenient.
“Personally, take-out is significantly better than eating in a restaurant because it is much more convenient. It allows for a much easier way to order food, whether it be on the phone or online, and it is easier to receive food in a timely manner. I also think that restaurants becoming more take-out oriented is much more beneficial because it allows for restaurants to not have to worry about inadequate seating that could make them lose revenue,” Roberts said.
Another reason for take-out becoming more popular is that restaurants make take-out-specific menus to help cater towards less contact ordering. Unlike traditional menus, these take-out menu selections are designed to ensure that the chosen foods not only retain their flavors but also withstand the journey from the restaurant to the customer’s doorstep. Emphasizing items that travel well and maintain their freshness, these menus often feature signature dishes, customer favorites, and specially crafted take-out exclusives. This curation process allows restaurants to present a condensed yet enticing array of offerings, providing customers with a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Rachel Owensby (11) believes that getting take-out is easier because it is less formal.
“While I like eating at restaurants, I think that getting take-out is better because you don’t have to wait as long, and you can eat your food in the comfort of your own home. I think that takes out for fast food places and things that are less formal or expensive is better for their business because people are looking for a quick and effortless way to get food and move on to their next task,” Owensby said.
