Just Ask Jenna Looks At Dining Out

by Jenna C, ’26

Dear Jenna, 

I always order the same thing at restaurants, even when I want to try something new. I don’t want to risk wasting money on something I might not like. Is sticking with what I know actually the smarter choice?

From, 

Too Comfortable with My Order

Dear Too Comfortable with My Order,

Ordering the same thing every time feels like a safe move. You know you will like it, and you do not have to worry about spending money on something disappointing. That kind of certainty can be comforting, especially when eating out already feels like a treat. Over time, though, always choosing the familiar can quietly take away from the experience. 

In economics, this connects to risk aversion. Essentially risk aversion is the tendency to avoid uncertainty, even when the possible downside is small. By ordering the same dish, you are protecting yourself from the risk of wasting money on something you might now enjoy. However, the cost of that caution is the missed opportunity to discover something new or even better. While the loss of a few dollars feels more noticeable in the moment, the potential gain is often underestimated. 

There is nothing wrong with playing it safe sometimes. But when the stakes are low, it can be worth taking a small risk and trying something different. 

Best of luck!

Jenna

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