Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index tumbles in April
Canadian dining habits continued to fluctuate in April, reflecting ongoing economic uncertainty. In April 2025, Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) fell to 87.0, down from 92.2 in April 2024—a six-point year-over-year decline. This decline was the result of a pullback in the share of Canadians who purchased dinner at least once in the past month, which dropped to 83%, the lowest level since May 2024.
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) led all major census metropolitan areas (CMAs) in declines, with a 14-percentage point drop in the share of Canadians purchasing dinner from a restaurant. Coffee and snack purchases also fell across nearly all CMAs, with the GTA seeing a six-point decrease compared to April 2024.
Much of April’s weakness can be attributed to Gen X consumers. Only 43% dined out once a week or more in April 2025, compared to 50% the year prior. While Gen Z continued to represent the largest share of weekly diners at 57%, this still marked a slight decline from 60% in April 2024.
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As the Chief Economist and Vice President of Research for Restaurants Canada, Chris Elliott manages and produces a comprehensive research program that has made Restaurants Canada a leading source of information for and about Canada’s nearly $120-billion foodservice industry. Chris tracks and analyzes key industry and economic indicators and translates them into member reports and publications. He also provides research to support Restaurants Canada’s lobbying efforts on issues that affect foodservice operators – from payroll taxes to food costs.
Chris has worked with Restaurants Canada for over 20 years, has a Bachelor of Arts and Master’s Degree in Economics and specializes in economic modelling and forecasting.
