The South African economy stands to have its ups and downs and it manifests in the pricing points in our major cities. For instance, while taking a look at stats from Numeo, the Twelve Marketing Inc. team discovered some interesting facts about the cost of dining out across our country. Revealed, was the different price points for dining at inexpensive restaurants in Durban, Polokwane, Cape Town and Johannesburg. Let us take a look at how these cities differ in pricing their restaurant menus.
Durban
This city’s culinary journey has been influenced by the Indian, Zulu and colonial cultures and flavors, which gives it a rich and diverse dining experience. The cost of a meal in a Durban’s inexpensive restaurant is approximately R292.95. Although the city is known for its affordable street food and local eateries, this amount shows that dining out can be a moderate expense for locals and tourists. One of the wonderful things that encourage outdoor dining is the city’s coastal charm and warm weather, perfect for social gatherings or family outings.
Polokwane
The capital city of Limpopo is known for its laid-back and small-town feel compared to the busy, congested metropolitan areas. The cost of dining at an inexpensive restaurant there is as low as R217.00. This price point is explained by the general cost of living where the pace of life is slower. Eating out in Polokwane is a regular activity for many affording residents and the lower price makes it accessible to more people who fall under lower tax brackets. This is one of the ways used to foster a sense of community around local eateries and cafes
Cape Town
Dining with a view? Of course, Cape Town is loved for its stunning landscapes and cosmopolitan vibes. However, the lavish experience comes with a higher price tag. Numeo shows that dining out in the Mother City costs around R325.50 at an inexpensive restaurant. Cape Town’s reputation as a global tourist destination, fine dining and trendy eateries contribute to these higher prices. Even if the cost is high, the experience of dining with a view of Table Mountain or along the V&A Waterfront is worth every rand. Due to the high price, dining out becomes more of an occasional treat rather than a habit for many.
Johannesburg
This is South Africa’s largest city and economic powerhouse. It is home to a diverse range of dining options that shows its rich mix of cultures and their respective cuisines. The cost of an inexpensive restaurant meal is approximately R217.00, similar to Polokwane. Regardless of being a large metropolitan area, Johannesburg offers a lot of affordable dining options which makes things convenient for a large sum of its population. Affordability is important where everything is fast-paced and people have little time for home-cooked meals.
Take a quick look at the difference in percentage form:
Seeing this data illustration, it highlights how the cost of living shapes the way people engage with their urban environments. Also, it is good news seeing that none of them are over 50%, meaning it can be affordable for most people. So next time you feel like not cooking, treat yourself and loved ones to an inexpensive dining experience, it is worth it.
