At Laurie’s Grill, we’ve noticed a growing trend in the restaurant industry: family meals to go. These convenient options are perfect for busy families and working professionals who crave home-cooked flavors without the hassle.
Restaurants with family meals to go offer a wide range of choices, from classic comfort food to international cuisine. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of these takeout options and help you choose the right meal for your family.
Why Family Meals To Go Are So Popular
The Convenience Factor
Family-style takeout meals have become a game-changer in the restaurant industry. Their popularity stems from their sheer convenience. A recent survey by the National Restaurant Association reveals that 70% of consumers show interest in convenient takeout options. This trend reflects the busy lifestyles of modern families and professionals who want quality meals without the time investment of cooking from scratch.
Cost-Effective Dining
Family meals to go often provide significant savings compared to ordering individual dishes. Many restaurants bundle family meals at a price point that saves families up to 30% (compared to ordering individual meals). This cost-effectiveness attracts budget-conscious consumers who want to enjoy restaurant-quality food without breaking the bank.
Adapting to Changing Needs
Restaurants quickly adapt to meet this growing demand. Industry forecasts project the family meal segment to grow by 25% over the next five years. To capitalize on this trend, many establishments expand their takeout menus, improve packaging for better food quality during transit, and streamline their online ordering systems.
Health and Variety
Another factor driving the popularity of family meals to go is the increasing focus on health and dietary variety. Many restaurants now offer customizable family meal options, allowing customers to cater to different dietary needs within their household. This flexibility is crucial, as 55% of diners prefer restaurants that allow them to select their meal components.
Supporting Local Businesses
The trend of family meals to go also aligns with a growing desire to support local businesses. Research by Mintel shows that 41% of consumers prioritize local restaurants over chains for family takeout options. This preference for local establishments (like Laurie’s Grill in Bend, Oregon) highlights a shift towards community support and a desire for unique, home-style flavors.
As we explore the various options available for family meals to go, it’s important to understand what makes a great takeout experience. Let’s take a closer look at some popular family meal options offered by restaurants.
What’s on the Menu for Family Meals?
At Laurie’s Grill, we’ve witnessed the transformation of dining through family meals to go. Let’s explore some popular options that restaurants across the country offer to satisfy hungry families.
Comfort Food Classics
Nothing beats the appeal of familiar favorites for family meals. Many restaurants focus on crowd-pleasing comfort foods that evoke memories of home-cooked meals. These often include dishes like roast chicken, meatloaf, or pot roast, accompanied by classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls. Recent research suggests that individual-level factors (motivation to seek comfort food, time and cost consideration) and social-level factors (family influence) play a role in the success of comfort food family meals.
Global Flavors for Adventurous Families
For families who want to expand their culinary horizons, many restaurants now offer international cuisine family packs. These might include Mexican taco bars, Italian pasta feasts, or Asian stir-fry kits.
Customizable Meal Kits
The popularity of meal kits has influenced restaurant offerings, with many establishments now providing deconstructed versions of their popular dishes for at-home assembly. This trend appeals to families who enjoy a hands-on approach to meal preparation without the hassle of grocery shopping.
Healthy Options
Health-conscious families will appreciate the increasing number of nutritious family meal options. Many restaurants now include organic vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in their family meal deals.
Special Dietary Accommodations
Restaurants have recognized the need to cater to various dietary requirements. Many now offer family-style meals that accommodate allergies, gluten sensitivities, and vegetarian or vegan preferences. This inclusivity allows all family members to enjoy a meal together, regardless of their dietary needs.
As we move forward, it’s important to consider how to choose the right family meal for your household. Let’s explore some key factors to keep in mind when selecting your next family takeout experience.
Selecting the Perfect Family Meal To Go
Portion Sizes and Dietary Needs
When you choose a family meal to go, you must consider the size of your family and individual appetites. Many restaurants offer meals for 4-6 people, but these estimates can vary. If you have big eaters or want leftovers, you should order a larger size or add extra sides.
Don’t overlook dietary restrictions. More than 170 foods have been reported to cause food allergy reactions in the U.S. Ask about allergen information and whether the restaurant can accommodate specific dietary needs when you order. Many establishments now offer gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options in their family meals.
Value for Money
Price often decides which meal to choose, but it’s not just about the lowest cost. You should examine what’s included in the meal deal. Does it come with sides, desserts, or drinks? Some restaurants offer significant savings on family bundles compared to ordering items separately.
A recent survey found that 34% of consumers opt for home-delivered takeaway meals, and 29% dine out at least once a week. You should consider whether the portion sizes will allow for an additional meal, effectively stretching your dollar further.
Quality and Freshness
The quality of ingredients can make or break your family meal experience. You should look for restaurants that prioritize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Many establishments pride themselves on using high-quality, locally-sourced produce and meats.
Check online reviews or ask friends for recommendations. Restaurants with consistently positive feedback about their takeout quality are more likely to provide a satisfying meal. Pay attention to comments about how well the food travels and reheats, as these factors can significantly impact your at-home dining experience.
Customization Options
Many families appreciate the ability to customize their meals. Look for restaurants that offer flexibility in their family meal options. This might include the ability to swap sides, choose different protein options, or add extra portions for larger families.
Packaging and Presentation
The way a meal is packaged can affect its quality upon arrival. Restaurants that invest in quality packaging (which keeps food hot and prevents spills) often provide a better takeout experience. Some even include reheating instructions or suggestions for plating, which can enhance your at-home dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Family meals to go have transformed modern dining, offering a perfect blend of convenience, quality, and value. Restaurants with family meals to go provide an array of choices, from comfort food classics to international cuisines and customizable meal kits. These takeout options cater to busy families and professionals who want home-cooked flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
The popularity of family-style meals extends beyond time-saving benefits. They offer cost-effective dining solutions, accommodate diverse dietary needs, and often support local businesses. We encourage you to explore the family meal options available in your area, considering portion sizes, dietary requirements, and overall value when selecting your meal.
If you’re in Bend, Oregon, try the family-style options at Laurie’s Grill. Our home-style cooked dishes and welcoming atmosphere make us a great choice for your next family dinner. As the trend of family meals to go grows, we look forward to seeing how restaurants will innovate to meet the changing needs of families.
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