The rising adoption of GLP-1 medications has sparked concerns that reduced appetites could lead to a decline in restaurant spending. However, while recent data reveal that these medications are changing how consumers engage with restaurants, the financial impact is less severe than initially feared.
A 2026 William Blair survey of 300 GLP-1 users found an average 4% decline in restaurant spending compared with pre-medication levels. This is a significant improvement from the 19% decline reported in 2024, suggesting both consumers and restaurants are adjusting to changing eating habits.
The survey also revealed notable differences across demographics. Consumers aged 35 to 44 increased restaurant spending by 7.5%, while households earning more than $150,000 annually increased spending by 10.4%. These findings indicate that GLP-1 use doesn’t uniformly reduce spending; instead, some consumers are prioritizing fewer but higher-value dining experiences.
The most significant shift has been in dining frequency. Respondents reported eating out about 4.9 times per month after starting GLP-1 therapy, compared with 9.8 times previously. Quick-service restaurants experienced the largest declines. However, many consumers are spending more per visit, helping offset some of the decline in traffic and highlighting a shift toward quality over quantity.
Additionally, consumers are becoming more selective about what they order. Roughly 70% of respondents reported eating smaller portions more often since starting GLP-1 treatment, and nearly half said they would dine out more frequently if smaller portion options were available. Preferences are also shifting toward fruits, vegetables, salads, and bowls, while demand for desserts, pizza, burgers, alcohol, and pasta has declined.
These changes are creating new opportunities for restaurant operators. Businesses that offer smaller portions, healthier menu options, and greater customization may be better positioned to meet evolving consumer preferences. While GLP-1 usage is expected to grow, current data suggest the industry is facing an adjustment in consumer behavior rather than a significant decline in demand.
Rather than signaling a decline in demand, GLP-1s appear to be driving an evolution in consumer behavior. Restaurants that recognize these shifts and respond to changing customer preferences may be best positioned for long-term success.
The restaurant industry is undergoing a recalibration, and data shows that restaurants have both the time and the tools to adapt successfully. For more information on related investment opportunities and insights, read Restaurants and GLP-1s: Proprietary Survey Suggests Modest Impact on Restaurant Spending, published on April 14, 2026, by Sharon Zackfia, CFA, partner, and group head of the consumer sector.