Brews & Eats
The rise of affordable decadence

Okay, so the title of this might sound a little communistical, but we were wondering how restaurants like Nando’s, TGI Fridays, Frankie and Benny’s and Wagamama have become so popular in the past few years. How are they able to offer good food that anyone can enjoy?

When it comes to eating out, we all want something tasty but affordable, sometimes not typical takeaway fast food but also not so far into the gourmet spectrum you have to re-mortgage your house to afford it. ‘Mid-level’ restaurants like Nando’s have enjoyed something of a renaissance in recent years due to the quality of food at affordable prices, which has been particularly embraced by the student market.

Of course, students aren’t the only ones who enjoy a good meal for as little as possible, with families seizing the opportunity to take the kids to a restaurant without having to call their bank manager first.

Gourmet Burger Kitchen is a prime example of the breed, and it’s all evident in the name. The food is great, but it’s not difficult to get your head around. It’s a burger at the end of the day, just like Pizza Express offers tasty, authentic pizza. It is easy to understand but difficult to get right. Places like GBK have risen from obscurity because they grab your tastebuds but don’t empty your wallet.

Also, the feeling of being in a proper restaurant is something McDonald’s or KFC can’t replicate (as much as they are trying). Sure it’s not a michelin star experience, but your bank account will thank you.

So maybe this is a bit communistical; good food for the people!