Islamabad: A recent survey conducted by Gallup & Gilani Pakistan reveals that only a quarter of Pakistanis dined out in the past year, with the majority of those who did so engaging in the activity only occasionally. The study provides insights into the eating habits of a nation where dining out remains a limited practice.

The survey indicates that 26% of Pakistanis reported eating food from outside sources such as restaurants and hotels over the last year. Among this group, a mere 13% frequented such establishments regularly, while a substantial 85% admitted to indulging only on rare occasions.

The survey collected responses from a representative sample of 724 adults across Pakistan’s urban and rural areas, spanning all four provinces. Conducted between April 16 and April 30, 2025, the study employed computer-assisted telephonic interviews (CATI) to gather data.

The results underscore the infrequency of dining out in Pakistan, as 64% of respondents stated they had not consumed outside food in the past year. An additional 10% were either unsure or chose not to respond.

With a margin of error of approximately ± 2-3 percent at a 95% confidence level, the survey provides a reliable snapshot of current dining trends in the country. The findings reflect a cultural tendency towards home-cooked meals, despite the availability of dining options.