Recently, I wrote about the psychological tricks menus feature that push you to experience the venue in a certain way, sometimes resulting in spending more than you would. But menus are only one part of the restaurant experience. Other elements can also encourage you to act in a certain way. Like the restaurant’s music.
“Music can influence our eating behaviour and choices,” says Sydney-based psychologist Dr Maria-Elena Lukeides. “Psychologists have proposed that music and eating are linked through a phenomenon called ‘cross-modal correspondence’. This theory suggests that our sensory experiences are not isolated but interact in complex ways.”
One example is that fast-paced music may enhance the perception of crunchiness in foods, while slower tempos might accentuate creaminess. Higher-pitched music has been associated with perceptions of sweetness, while lower pitches correlate with bitterness.
“Studies have shown that the presence of music can also lead to increased food intake,” Lukeides says. “This effect is thought to be due to music’s ability to distract individuals from internal cues of fullness. If the music is cranked up, it might distract you from those feelings of fullness.”
With countless studies linking music to eating behaviour, it’s no wonder restaurant owners and general managers are carefully curating their playlists. At Penny’s Hotel in Potts Point, the goal was to create play music reflecting the suburb’s eclectic character, a blend of heritage, bohemian and sophistication, and complementing the menu.
“During the day, when guests are more likely to order lighter, fresher dishes, the music leans toward softer jazz or acoustic tunes,” says general manager Ollie Sumsky. “Then in the evening, as guests choose bolder, more flavourful dishes from the menu, often in groups, the music is more upbeat, lively tunes like funk, soul and classic rock.”
At Surry Hills restaurants Jane and Arthur and Cronulla restaurant Fior, owner Tristan Rosier curated playlists for each from when they first opened. A playlist for the day or night will be chosen based on the crowd. “You can’t have Sabrina Carpenter playing in Jane,” Rosier says. “It wouldn’t fit the vibe nor the people coming to the restaurant. Maybe a very cool, unexpected remix, but never the version you’d hear on the radio.”
So, other than noticing and appreciating the music next time you visit a restaurant, what can you do to ensure the tunes don’t influence you to act differently — like eating or spending too much? Lukeides suggests you listen to your gut — literally.
“Your stomach knows what it wants and that’s what you should go for,” she says. “Sure music might be playing in the background, but does it really need to dictate what goes on your plate? No. I think you should order what you’re craving. If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, go for it. Fancy a salad? Have it. It’s your meal, your choice.”
Lukeides adds that there isn’t much research on music’s impact on how healthy we eat. While she believes music can subtly influence healthy eating choices, it would be minimal. The best option? “Follow your cravings and try to choose the best option based on what you nutritionally need,” she says.
Related: When Did We All Start Going to Restaurants Just For Bread?
Related: How Restaurant Menus Are Getting You to Spend More
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