Beyond the Plate: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis of Psychological Determinants in Out-of-Home Food Choice Behaviors

This study employs a qualitative meta-synthesis approach to investigate the psychological determinants of food choice in out-of-home dining contexts. Drawing from 25 qualitative studies published between 2000 and 2024, we analyze the complex interplay of personal, sociocultural, situational, and sensory factors influencing consumers' food selection behaviors in restaurants. Our findings reveal that while individual preferences play a role, social norms and expectations exert a more significant influence in dining-out scenarios, often overshadowing personal tastes. The physical environment of restaurants, including ambiance and decor, substantially impacts diners' cognitive and emotional responses, subsequently affecting their food choices. Menu design and presentation emerge as powerful tools in guiding consumer decisions, particularly when emphasizing healthier options. Moreover, service quality is found to significantly influence not only satisfaction but also the diversity and adventurousness of food choices. This meta-synthesis extends existing food choice models by incorporating context-specific factors unique to out-of-home dining experiences. It underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of the psychological processes underlying food selection in restaurant settings. Our results offer valuable insights for both theoretical advancements in consumer behavior and practical applications in the foodservice industry. Future research directions are proposed, including the development of an integrated model specific to out-of-home dining contexts.