Domestically, few issues have generated more headlines in recent years than cost-of-living pressures. As millions of cautious Australians navigate ongoing volatility, hospitality has been impacted. However, an interesting trend is emerging. Rather than prioritising cheap eats and value-focused venues, Aussies are also looking for ‘luxe’ experiences. They’re willing to pay more for them, and they’re more likely to return to a venue that can provide these types of unique experiences.
Luxe experiences, from any venue
While it’s been a challenging period for many operators, they continue to demonstrate resilience, adaptability and innovation. In the face of unprecedented challenges, venues have evolved, and we’re now embarking into a new era of “SuperHuman Hospitality”, where operators are using technology behind the scenes to deliver exceptional, personalised hospitality at scale.
These are the ‘luxe’ experiences that diners are looking for today, according to SevenRooms’ 2025 Australia Restaurant Trends Report. Our research found that most Australians are willing to pay up to $97 per meal. When asked what type of venue they visit most often, almost as many Aussies (25%) said a hatted restaurant, fine dining or elevated food as those who said a neighbourhood staple or family-friendly restaurant (26%).
However, that’s not to say they’re looking for expensive experiences. Rather, they’re seeking out meaningful, memorable and tailored experiences worth paying for. This level of experience isn’t just reserved for elite venues – any venue, from a hatted restaurant to neighbourhood staple, can provide the level of experience that guests value, recommend and return for. In fact, three in four Aussies have returned or plan to return to a restaurant after a unique experience.
Personalised touches, elevated moments
While the quality of food is still important, it’s not the only factor driving guest acquisition and retention. The experience is critical. Aussies are willing to pay extra for personalised touches, like custom tasting menus and appetiser curation. For holidays and special occasions, they’ll spend even more on elevated experiences like specialised menus and keepsakes. These experiences have a significant impact on retention and revenue, and any venue can offer them.
‘Luxe’ experiences don’t have to be big, outside-the-box ideas. Instead, back-to-basics can go a long way. When asked what interactions they most value with venues, simple measures like the host welcoming guests back, a chef stopping by the table or a server taking the time to learn about their tastes or preferences go a long way with diners – with 82% of Aussies valuing these personal interactions.
Whether it’s an entirely customised menu or simply name recognition, the right technology is critical for venues looking to provide ‘luxe’ experiences. When venues can collect approved guest data, it enables them to create a holistic picture of that guest, from their dietary requirements to past orders, and even where they like to sit. With that information, operators can provide the personalised, unique experiences that keep guests coming back.
Technology can’t replace a visit from the chef or provide a warm welcome from a host. Instead, it streamlines time-consuming, but mission-critical operations, automating everything from reservations and payments to post-visit marketing. Ultimately, this frees up operators to focus on the human side of hospitality. That combination of technology and human hospitality underpins the ‘luxe’ experience that any venue, from a family-run cafe to a Michelin-starred restaurant, can turn into loyalty, retention and repeat revenue.
As Australians seek more meaningful and personalised dining experiences, venues have a unique opportunity. By blending thoughtful touches and exceptional service with strategic, behind-the-scenes technology, restaurants can set a new standard of “SuperHuman Hospitality” by creating memorable moments that resonate with guests long after they leave.
