Eating out

Houstonions eat out more than residents of any other American city. On average an amazing 4 times a week!

Zagat released its 2012 America's Top Restaurants survey, and results reveal that the recession still isn't affecting the eating patterns of Houston diners.

Data collected from 156,000 respondents show that food lovers nationwide eat out an average of 3.1 meals per week. But Texans are eating out more than anyone else in the country and Houston ranks No. 1, with an average of four meals out per week. Being No. 1 is nothing new for Houston — it ranked first in meals out per week last year as well.

Austin/Hill Country (3.8 meals per week), Dallas/Fort Worth (3.6) and San Antonio (3.5) round out the top four of the 2012 list. East Coast eaters in Boston and Philadelphia fall at the bottom, each with an average of just 2.5 meals out per week.

It could be Rick Perry's "Texas Miracle" that contributes to Houstonians' spendthrift ways, but it's more likely just the relatively low price of eating out. The average meal in Houston costs $32.53, compared to the Zagat U.S. average of $35.65. The average most expensive meal in Houston, $63.05, falls significantly below the national average of $79.39.

After dinner people like boxing up their leftovers and taking them home. Since the portions are so big this will probably be more than enough food for next day's lunch or dinner.

However, I was very surprised when I came across this 'Olive Garden' advertisement. One dinner in the restaurant and before you leave

they will box up tomorrow night's dinner! Two nights dinner for $12.95. Not sure I want to try this....