Overview

• A Lightspeed Commerce survey found that about 44% of U.S. adults say they order from kids' menus.
• Respondents pointed to saving money, smaller portions and simpler choices as the main reasons for the shift.
• Official data show the cost of dining out rose 3.9% over the past year, and a FinanceBuzz review found some fast-food meals have roughly doubled since 2014.
• McDonald's and Wendy's recently reported softer breakfast sales, citing economic uncertainty and pressure on lower-income consumers.
• Price checks illustrate the value play, with a six-piece McNuggets Happy Meal at $5.99 including sides versus $5.59 for nuggets alone without fries or a drink.