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Writer's picturemeowdini
May 202 min read

Dining Out in Romania: Prices Skyrocket by 12%, Making Restaurant Meals a Luxury for Many

Romanians are feeling the pinch as the cost of dining out continues to soar. In 2024, restaurant prices have jumped by a staggering 12%, making meals at restaurants a luxury for many.


Summer Brings Even Higher Prices

As the summer season approaches, prices are expected to climb even further, with some meals reaching exorbitant levels.In some Bucharest establishments, a meal for two could cost as much as 300 lei (approximately €60).

Data Confirms the Trend

Data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS) confirms the upward trend, with an average price increase of 12% across the board. Some individual dishes have seen even more dramatic price hikes, with some items increasing by as much as 47%.

Dining Out Becomes a Budget Buster

As a result of these price increases, dining out has become a significant budget item for many Romanians. According to Antena 3, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant, including drinks, can now cost upwards of 400 lei (approximately €80).

Factors Driving the Increase

Several factors are contributing to the surge in restaurant prices. These include:

  • Rising food costs: The prices of food ingredients have been increasing due to factors such as supply chain disruptions, the war in Ukraine, and rising energy costs.

  • Labor shortages: The restaurant industry is facing a labor shortage, which is driving up wages and putting additional pressure on prices.

  • Inflation: Romania's inflation rate is currently at 13.8%, which is also contributing to the overall increase in prices.


Impact on Consumers

The rising prices are having a significant impact on consumers, with many people cutting back on their dining out expenses. This is putting pressure on the restaurant industry, which is already struggling with labor shortages and other challenges.



Government Measures

The Romanian government has taken some measures to try to help consumers cope with the rising cost of living,including reducing taxes on food and energy. However, these measures have had a limited impact on restaurant prices.


Outlook

The outlook for restaurant prices in Romania is uncertain. While some experts believe that prices may stabilize in the coming months, others warn that they could continue to rise. In the meantime, consumers should be prepared to pay more for their meals out.



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