WASHINGTON -- The National Restaurant Association estimates that 48 million Americans will order takeout or delivery food from a restaurant while watching the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 5. In addition, 12 million are expected to visit a restaurant or bar to watch the game. New association research also shows that salsa/dips/spreads, chicken wings and pizza are considered must-have foods on game day.
"Sporting events and great food go hand in hand, so it is no surprise that millions of Americans will incorporate restaurants into their plans for watching the professional football championship game this year," said Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of the Research & Knowledge Group for the National Restaurant Association. "When it comes to favorite game-watching foods, dips, chicken wings and pizza top the list. But, about two out of five individuals who plan to watch the 'Big Game' say that healthful food items are a must on their table that day."
The association's research shows that 31% of individuals who plan to watch the big game at their own home or someone else's home expect to order restaurant takeout or delivery. Younger adults (18 to 34 years old) and individuals with children are more likely to order restaurant food for game-day gatherings, at 52% and 40%, respectively.
In addition, individuals on the West Coast are more likely to watch the game at a restaurant or bar, at 9% compared with 4% on the East Coast, likely because of the earlier kickoff time in the Pacific time zone.
When it comes to food for the big game on February 5, 69% of survey respondents said that salsa, dips or spreads are must-haves; 63% said chicken wings are must-haves, 61% said pizza, 50% said desserts and 49% said subs/sandwiches. In addition, 42% said that healthful food items are a must on their game day table.
The National Restaurant Association surveyed 1,014 American adults on January 19-22 about their dining plans for the 2012 Super Bowl. Projections are based on economic analysis and research conducted by the association.
Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises 960,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of nearly 13 million employees.
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