Going out to eat may be fun, but don't expect it to be healthful -- at least, not when restaurants are pulling tricks like these to make you eat (and spend!) more and more
They know how to manipulate the menu Ever notice how, when you go to a fancy restaurant, you'll see something like this on the menu: "Filet Mignon, 54"? Not $54, or $54.00, or even 54 dollars? It's not because the menu maker forgot about currency. Another study by Cornell University found that diners spend less when the word "dollars" or a dollar symbol are used on a menu, says Palinski. By dropping the symbol, restaurants are hoping you'll focus on the food, not the price tag.
Now, take an even closer look at the menu. See that picture of the big, juicy steak? It looks delicious -- and it's also probably the most expensive item the restaurant serves. So why'd they choose that particular entree to photograph? Because you're more likely to order a certain dish when you see a picture of it. Very often, the images on restaurant menus are there because these items cost more than anything else.
And where is that steak picture located? In a prime spot of course. Restaurant menus typically feature the most expensive (and rarely the most good-for-you) entrees in the most eye-catching spots: usually on the right-hand side. This placement encourages you to notice them, upping the chances that you'll order these dishes and drop more cash.
Also, combo meals seem wasteful. If you are not interested in ordering a beverage or a side item, it seems senseless to pay more for food you don't want ... and probably don't need.
Eye opening article. I was aware of the colors influencing hunger, but I did not know about playing loud music to make you rush to eat your meal. Interesting how the menus showcase the more expensive items as well.
Marketing is so sneaky. But I think I'm most shocked at how Applebee's just straight up lied about the nutrition information -- though I'm sure they're not the only ones.
that zero transfat issue is for all food junk food claiming 0 transfat. it has been reported on since i was in high school 2003! for fast food restaurant. I just don't understand why, the fda has made changes.
amazing article! the thing about 'forgetting the currency' is like :O but so true! I was always wondering about that, like heloo? is it so hard to put a "$" at the end xD amazing how they try to trick us with everything -.-
In Tennessee laws are not yet in place to show how mukh fat is in the food...I don't think it should be law, but I know I would like to know and it sure would curb oesity. I think TN is the fatest state in the nation...am I right? I kow I eat a lot of gravyand biscuits but I am one of the lucky ones with a moderate to hih metabolism.
The lying about calories and fat in the entree is scary...sometimes I do wonder when ordering from the "lite" menu how in the world can they cook these items and have them come up to less than when I cook the same thing at home? I generally know about what most servings have and it usually doesn't add up to me! I doubt its only applebees that does this. Better to eat at home and know what your getting.