P.F. Chang's Joins Olive Garden & Cheesecake Factory in Offering Smaller Portions
P.F. Chang's has joined Olive Garden and The Cheesecake Factory in offering smaller portions and fixed-price specials for lunch and dinner. This shift comes as restaurants adapt to changing consumer habits and preferences.
The trend towards snacking and an increase in solo diners have prompted restaurants to reevaluate their portion sizes. Olive Garden tested this change in 2014, offering smaller portions for seven dinner entrées at nearly half of its locations. The trial was successful, with a 15% increase in the chain's affordability metric and positive customer feedback.
Darden Restaurants, which owns Olive Garden, noted that customers appreciate eating the right amount and not feeling the need to have uneaten food on their plate. This sentiment is echoed by Darden CEO Rick Cardenas, who believes that offering smaller portions and value options can turn diners into regulars.
The restaurant industry is responding to evolving consumer habits by offering smaller portions and fixed-price specials. P.F. Chang's, Olive Garden, and The Cheesecake Factory have all expanded their value options, helping to reduce waste and attract customers. However, the industry is still adapting to the increasing number of solo eaters.
