Dining out may not be a priority for consumers recovering from the recession, but restauranteurs are maintaining a bright outlook.
The Restaurant Association says 85% of its members expect the economy to remain flat, if not improve, over the next year.
This follows a survey by American Express showing 50% of respondents are eating out less frequently.
Restaurant Association chief executive Steve Mackenzie says the industry is heading into the busy Christmas season and, anecdotally, it seems strong.
Forward bookings are looking pretty good and are no worse than this time last year.
