Core Insights - Restaurant menu prices are experiencing a decline in inflation, with a year-over-year inflation rate of 3.2% by September 2025, down from nearly 6% at the start of 2024 [1] - The average price of a meal including a cheeseburger, beverage, and fries has increased by 3.8% over the past year, from $17.90 to $18.58 [2] - Major restaurant operators are adopting value meal strategies to attract cost-conscious consumers, with many pausing or slowing price increases [3] Pricing Trends - The DoorDash Restaurant Price Index indicates that menu price inflation has stabilized, aligning with consumer trends towards value meals [1][3] - Cheeseburger price inflation varies significantly across U.S. cities, with prices ranging from $10.75 in Lincoln, Nebraska to $25.55 in Anchorage, Alaska [2] Consumer Spending Power - Wage growth has been outpacing the Restaurant Price Index since early 2024, suggesting an increase in consumer spending power within the foodservice industry [4] - Overall food spending has increased by 4.9% as of August 2025, with restaurant spending up by more than 6% [4] Consumer Behavior Insights - Despite some operators reporting a "softer consumer environment," data indicates that consumers are more likely to dine out if prices are lower [3][5] - Millennial and Gen Z consumers have shown a slowdown in spending habits this year, impacting overall restaurant sales [5] Value Perception - Operators that prioritize value perception are seeing positive results, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards affordability [6]