How to attract more visitors and increase the average spending

Guests are going out a little less and weighing price more. That means your growth this autumn comes from two things: getting more people in and helping each table spend a bit more — without it feeling expensive. Below are four practical moves you can start this week. They’re simple, guest-friendly, and proven to lift both visits and average check.

This article is taken from a downloadable white paper on the 8 restaurant trends not to be missed in 2026.

Package for value, not just price

People don’t want “cheap”; they want to feel they got more than they paid for. Build that feeling into how you sell.

Create bundles that feel complete. Turn a popular main into a “set” with a small starter and a house drink for a modest uplift. Example: a 220SEK main becomes a 290 SEK main with sides that are efficient to prep (higher margins).

• Design add-ons that feel like treats. Offer a “crisp side salad,” “garlic bread for the table,” “extra sauce,” or “bar snack while you wait.” Keep them easy to say yes to and position them right under the main.
• Pair drinks with dishes. Add “perfect pairings” under 3–5 dishes (beer, wine, low/no). Avoid decision fatigue: one clear suggestion beats a long list.
• Anchor with a premium option. A higher-priced “chef’s pick” or sharing board increases perceived value and makes core items look fairly priced.
• Limit the discounting. If you need a deal, use fixed-price lunch, early-bird, or slow-day bundles that protect margin while filling seats.