Have you ever wondered about the unique stories behind restaurants? From quirky business decisions to bizarre dining experiences, they have plenty to offer. You might be surprised by these six random facts about restaurants.
1. Michelin Stars Might Be Bad Luck
Michelin stars are often seen as a sign of success in the restaurant world, but they don’t guarantee longevity. In a study of New York restaurants that opened between 2000 and 2014, Michelin-starred places were more likely to close. The city lost 40% of its Michelin-starred restaurants by the end of 2019. Keeping up with perfection, rising operating costs, and shifting dining trends can sometimes make earning this prestigious award more of a curse than a blessing.
2. The Popeyes Chicken Scandal
A restaurant in Long Beach, California, made headlines when it was caught serving Popeyes chicken as its own. It bought chicken from Popeyes, marked it up, and sold it as “housemade” chicken and waffles. After customers exposed the scam, the owner refused to apologize, saying they were just delivering a great product. The scandal sparked debates about transparency and authenticity in the restaurant industry.
3. Higher Prices for Tourists in Japan
In Japan, some restaurants and attractions have started charging higher prices for foreign tourists than for locals. This practice, while controversial, is an attempt to manage the surge in international visitors while ensuring locals are not overburdened. These “dual pricing” systems highlight the challenges of balancing tourism growth with local hospitality. For visitors, it’s a reminder to check the fine print before ordering or booking.
4. Outback Steakhouse’s Faux-Australian Roots
Outback Steakhouse, the popular chain known for its Aussie-themed menu, owes its origin to a wave of Australian pop culture sparked by the 1986 film Crocodile Dundee. Ironically, the founders—four Americans from Tampa, Florida—had never even been to Australia. They deliberately avoided visiting the country to ensure their concept of “American food with Australian fun” remained accessible to U.S. diners. The result? A restaurant with kangaroo décor and “Bloomin’ Onions” that’s Australian only in spirit, not authenticity.
5. Marijuana-Sedated Lobsters in Maine
In 2018, a Maine restaurant introduced a unique and controversial method of cooking lobsters: sedating them with marijuana smoke. The owner believed this approach provided the lobsters with a more humane death, reducing stress before cooking.
6. The Struggle with “Menu Anxiety”
Have you ever felt stressed or overwhelmed while deciding what to order at a restaurant? If so, you’re not alone. Over 30% of Americans report experiencing “menu anxiety,” defined as distress caused by the pressure to choose the perfect meal. Some people try to combat this by obsessively reviewing menus online before dining out. This anxiety can be particularly strong in high-pressure environments like upscale restaurants or when dining with a group. It’s a reminder that for many, eating out isn’t just about food—it’s also about navigating social and personal expectations.
Dining out is full of surprises, from hidden origins to unexpected emotions. Do you ever struggle with menu anxiety? Do you prefer chain restaurants or local spots when you go out?