Has the recession affected our desire to eat out?

We seem still to the midst of a deep recession with eating out and hotel occupancy rates dropping nationally, but the experience in Wales suggests that people who like their food and drink are still willing to eat out, provided the quality is right. Between the cost of something and the quality there exists a subtle difference.

Luxury hotels Wales or upmarket restaurants both share the same commitment to quality, which has more to do with their inherent sense of style and purpose than any notions of luxury. A modest B&B can still offer excellent quality, especially when it comes to food and service.

It’s true there are dark economic skies but there are also bright shafts of light bursting through too. People who love eating good quality food as part of their holidays in Wales still appreciate those whose passion is sourcing, preparing and serving it. Restaurants have done well by doing what they do best - treat the customer how that person would expect to be treated.

The country has always been known as a centre of excellency in food and drink and fine restaurants that show great attention to detail and an environmentally aware method of sourcing local products and services. Better food, better wines and beers and, most importantly, better service is the hallmark of most Welsh eating and dining establishments. Commitments to sustainability can be stretched when there is a need to generate a profit, but many restaurants are seizing the opportunity to squeeze suppliers to follow their ethical stand. It is a tought time at the moment economically, but to the restaurant trade at least, the message is clear. Delivering quality at a fair price remains the key to attracting customers who’ll continue to regard eating out as one of the best things to do in Wales.

 

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