2012 sums it up perfectly, for most people eating out is a luxury and a special occasion. I have noticed recently that prices have been hiked up in the restaurants I have been in and although perhaps it was essential it discourages people from eating out. The rates are due next month, if you want the discount, and they have gone up as well as most other essential charges. People on a fixed income have to prioritise and eating out comes very low on the list of essentials.