A server takes an order from a child and his father at a retro-style diner. A new survey found 44% of U.S. adults admit to ordering from kids’ menus, citing smaller portions, lower prices, and simpler choices. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Americans are becoming more decisive about what they will—and won’t—tolerate when dining out, according to new research from Lightspeed Commerce Inc.
Of 1,000 consumers surveyed, 40% said rude service would keep them from returning to a restaurant, followed by cold food (34%), long waits (27%), and sticky menus or tables (24%).
In many cases, diners leave before they even order: nearly 1 in 3 said they’ve walked out due to long wait times, while 1 in 5 said rude staff drove them out the door.
The backstory:
The research also found more adults are ordering off the kids’ menu, with 44% admitting they’ve chosen smaller meals typically marketed for children.
The reasons included smaller portions (38%), simpler choices (37%), and lower prices (31%). From mini burgers to mac and cheese, kids’ meals are now considered a practical—and nostalgic—option.
Tip fatigue continues to rise
By the numbers:
Tipping remains standard in U.S. restaurants, but attitudes are shifting. More than half of diners (54%) said they feel pressured by preset tipping screens, up from 47% last year.
Inflation is also influencing behavior: 44% said they are tipping less than before, and nearly a third (29%) said they would prefer to eliminate tipping entirely.
Still, many diners recognize the importance of rewarding service. The survey found:
- 59% say tipping delivery drivers is important
- 33% say the same for coffee shop staff
- The most common tipping range remains 15–20%
More diners are also going out on their own—and enjoying it. This year, 55% said they dine solo by choice, up from 45% in 2024.
One in three said they see it as a form of self-care, while 30% said solo dining helps them try new restaurants. Popular solo activities include people-watching (37%) and scrolling on social media (24%).
For restaurants, that shift presents an opportunity to create more welcoming spaces for single diners.
Why you should care:
The survey highlights how customer expectations are evolving as dining out becomes more intentional. Rude service, long waits, and tipping frustration are reshaping loyalty, while kids’ meals and solo dining show how people are redefining what makes a good restaurant experience.
The Source: This report is based on a survey conducted by Lightspeed Commerce Inc. of 1,000 U.S. consumers.