For many families, the quintessential holiday mean involves a bustling kitchen, family recipes, and at least one near-miss with an overcooked turkey. But for many Americans, the holiday meal is happening somewhere unexpected: under the warm glow of diner lights, at a favorite Chinese restaurant, or over pancakes at Waffle House. According to the National Restaurant Association (NRA), 63% of adults planned to dine out during the 2023 holiday season, with 48% opting for takeout or delivery.
This doesn’t necessarily mean people are leaving traditions behind. For some, it’s about simplifying the season and reclaiming time to focus on what matters most: good food and great company.
Home Kitchens Out—Dive Bars, Diners, and Dim Sum In
Holiday dining isn’t just about fancy, white-tablecloth restaurants. Diners, dive bars, and casual joints are having a moment. Research from Upside reveals these spots are the go-to for holiday meals, thanks to their mix of comfort and affordability. And let’s not forget the classics: Chinese restaurants continue their long-standing Christmas tradition, doubling traffic on the day.
Breakfast chains like Waffle House and IHOP have also captured the holiday spirit, claiming 70% of Christmas Day dining traffic, according to Placer.ai. These spots serve hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere—great for anyone looking to enjoy the season without the hassle of cooking.
Convenience As the New Comfort
For many, dining out during the holidays is all about reclaiming time. Michelle Korsmo, CEO of the National Restaurant Association, describes it best in a release: “Restaurants give guests the gift of time so they can enjoy the warmth of good company.” This sentiment is especially true for younger generations.
Millennials and Gen Z are leading the way, with 91% of Millennials relying on restaurants for their main holiday dishes. For these generations, it’s not just about convenience—it’s about crafting creative, social experiences.
In fact, Tock’s 2024 holiday survey found that 68% of respondents plan to celebrate at restaurants or bars this year. These diners are not only enthusiastic but also planning ahead—45% are booking reservations three or more weeks in advance, with nearly half preferring earlier dinner slots (4–6 p.m.). For many, this careful preparation is about creating meaningful, festive experiences.
The survey also showed that 67% of diners want more than just a standard family style or ala cart meal, with many opting for themed menus or multi-course feasts to make their celebrations feel unique and festive.
Generational Divide: Millennials vs. Baby Boomers
While Millennials and Gen Z are embracing dining out, Baby Boomers have remained the most traditional, with 72% saying they are making holiday meals themselves. This difference shows how values can vary by generation—while some groups prioritize convenience and newness, others find comfort in sticking to culinary traditions. But both share one thing: the desire to connect. Whether it’s around a home-cooked meal or a restaurant table, the holidays are still about gathering and celebrating together.
The New Nostalgia–Takeout, Dive Bars, & Diners
Eating out during the holidays isn’t just about avoiding cleanup. It taps into something deeper: the comfort of familiar spaces. Dive bars, diners, and casual chains offer a relaxed, low-pressure space to celebrate. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience of gathering somewhere that feels like home.
Takeout has also become a staple: 66% of those ordering in for the holidays opted for full meals, while 63% turned to restaurants for dessert. For many, outsourcing the cooking doesn’t mean giving up on festive food—it’s just a smarter way to enjoy it.
What This Says About Us
So, what does it mean that many Americans are choosing restaurants for their holiday meals? For one, it shows a growing interest in options that meet modern needs. While home cooking remains central for many, eating out has become anappealing choice for those who prioritize convenience, connection, or simply taking a break from tradition.
These dining habits also reflect a cultural shift toward mindfulness and shared experiences. By stepping away from the kitchen, people are finding new ways to connect and celebrate—whether that’s over dim sum, a short stack of pancakes, or a dive bar burger.
Whether it’s about convenience, nostalgia, or simply enjoying a meal together, dining out has become an essential part of the holiday season for many. It’s not a replacement for tradition—it’s another way to celebrate. Because at the end of the day, the joy of the holidays isn’t about where you eat—it’s about who you’re with.
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