The food service market in Romania is undergoing a period of structural recalibration in 2025, amid economic pressures that have reduced the frequency of restaurant visits and the value of the average check. According to studies conducted by the Hospitality Culture Institute and Exact Research, the total market is estimated at approximately EUR 7.8 billion; however, consumers have become much more disciplined, transforming dining out from a daily habit into a selective social experience.
Data collected in five major Romanian cities indicates a 13% decrease in the average check, which dropped to EUR 10.46 in 2025, compared to EUR 12 in the previous year. This contraction is fueled by cost-saving measures: 40% of customers skip dessert, 37% skip drinks, and 34% opt for more affordable locations. While 50% of respondents visit physical restaurants less frequently, the delivery segment shows greater resilience, with only 38% reducing their order frequency. Delivery services are used by 8 out of 10 Romanians and generate approximately EUR 1.69 billion (21% of the market), while standard restaurants account for EUR 2.16 billion (27% of the market). At the same time, the pastry and bakery segment has consolidated as a mass-market channel, generating revenues of EUR 0.66 billion. Florin Maxim, founder of the Hospitality Culture Institute, emphasizes that the market has matured abruptly, with customers now penalizing any discrepancy between price and the quality of the social experience provided—a trend that will intensify in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the average restaurant check decrease in 2025?
The average check in Romania’s major cities decreased by 13%, falling from EUR 12 to EUR 10.46 in 2025.
What is the market share of food delivery in Romania?
The delivery segment accounts for approximately 21% of the total HoReCa market, generating revenues of EUR 1.69 billion.
How are Romanian consumers saving money when dining out?
Consumers are primarily saving by skipping desserts (40%), foregoing drinks (37%), or choosing more affordable dining locations (34%).