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A Big Mac meal at McDonald's. Photo: Shutterstock Businessweek Economics The High Cost of Eating Out in America As restaurants struggle with staffing and inflation, fast food has an advantage in the post-pandemic dining landscape. By Dorothy Gambrell and Laura Bliss February 23, 2024 at 6:00 AM EST Save Restaurants have had a steep climb back from the pandemic. After a post-Covid rebound, growth of same-store sales slowed across the industry in 2023, with high costs and changed eating habits keeping many customers home. Fast food--the most prevalent dining option across the US--has seen profit margins improve compared with those at sit-down, non-chain eateries, despite its price increases outpacing those of table service. For creative restaurateurs, the landscape isn't exactly appetizing. Read next: Here's Why Your Car Insurance Bill Has Never Been More Expensive Have a confidential tip for our reporters? 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