08 Jun 2025 In Dine at Home

Why Dining at Home Is the New Going Out: The Rise of Home Comforts

Let’s set the scene: it’s a Friday night, the week has been long, and the idea of getting dressed up to brave the crowds at a restaurant sounds less appealing than a root canal. More and more of us are swapping dining out for the comfort of eating at home, and it’s not just because we can’t decide what to wear. The convenience, comfort, and sheer ease of dining at home are turning the tables (pun intended) on the traditional restaurant experience.

But what’s driving this trend? And more importantly, how can you jump on the bandwagon while still enjoying top-notch meals? Enter Early Table’s new "Dine at Home" service, where you can order from some of your favorite local spots like Base Pizza, Saba To Go, and Bombay Pantry—and save up to 40% while you’re at it. Yes, really.

The Shift to Dining at Home: What’s Behind the Trend?

The dining-at-home trend isn’t just a passing fad; it’s a movement. According to a 2023 survey, 60% of UK consumers reported ordering takeaway or delivery at least once a week, with a significant number of those people opting to eat at home instead of going out . In Ireland, the numbers are equally telling—ordering in is on the rise, with a notable increase in people who prefer the comfort of their own home over the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant .

This shift is partly due to the post-pandemic landscape, where we got used to the comfort of our couches and the joy of Netflix binges paired with delicious food from our favourite locals. But there’s more to it. Busy lifestyles, the rising cost of dining out, and the desire to enjoy high-quality food without the hassle have all played a part in making dining at home the new going out.

Why We’re Choosing to Dine at home

1. Convenience: The biggest driver? Convenience. We’ve all had those nights where the thought of waiting for a table, navigating a crowded dining room, or even just putting on real pants is too much to bear. Dining at home eliminates all that. You get restaurant-quality food delivered straight to your door, and you can enjoy it however you want to.

2. Comfort: There’s something unbeatable about the comfort of home. Whether you’re curling up on the couch or sitting around the dining table with your family, home is where you can truly relax. No noise, no strangers, just you, your food, and maybe a little background music (or a binge-worthy TV show).

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Dining out can be pricey, especially when you factor in drinks, tips, and transport. By opting to dine at home, you’re saving on all those extras. Plus, with services like Early Table’s "Dine at Home" option, you’re also saving up to 40% on your food, which means more money in your pocket for the things that matter (like dessert).

4. Customization: At home, you can eat exactly how you want. Want to pause between courses? Go ahead. Prefer a more relaxed pace where you can stretch the meal over a few hours? No problem. You’re in control of the whole dining experience, from start to finish.

Dining at Home, the Early Table Way

So, how do you make the most of dining at home? With Early Table’s new "Dine at Home" service, you can enjoy restaurant-quality food from some of Dublin’s best takeaways including Base Pizza, Saba To Go, and Bombay Pantry without ever leaving the house. Let’s break down the highlights.

Base Pizza: Where Every Slice Is a Slice of Heaven

There’s something about a great pizza that just hits the spot. Base Pizza is known for its wood-fired perfection, with a crust that’s crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside. The best part? You can now order it straight to your door through Early Table and save a hefty 40% while doing so. Whether you’re a classic Margherita lover or someone who enjoys experimenting with toppings, Base Pizza has something for everyone. And let’s be real, pizza tastes even better when you’re enjoying it from the comfort of your own home.

Saba To Go: Bringing Thai & Vietnamese Delights to Your Doorstep

Saba To Go is a lifesaver when you’re craving something a little more exotic. Their Thai and Vietnamese dishes are packed with flavor and freshness, making them perfect for a cozy night in. From spicy curries to fresh salads, Saba To Go offers a menu that’s as varied as it is delicious. And with up to 30% off through Early Table, indulging in these Southeast Asian delights doesn’t have to break the bank. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of digging into a hot, fragrant bowl of curry while you’re wrapped up in a blanket on the couch.

Bombay Pantry: Your Go-To Indian 

If there’s one thing that can elevate a quiet night at home, it’s the rich, aromatic flavours of Indian food. Bombay Pantry has been a staple in Dublin for years, and now you can enjoy their incredible dishes at home, with up to 30% off your order. Whether it’s a creamy Butter chicken, a fiery Vindaloo, or some perfectly spiced Samosas, Bombay Pantry brings the comfort and warmth of Indian cuisine right to your doorstep. Pair it with some naan bread and a few friends or family members, and you’ve got yourself a perfect night in.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Dining at Home Is Here to Stay

The trend of dining at home isn’t just a temporary shift; it’s becoming a staple of modern life. A 2022 study from the UK found that 44% of people in the UK plan to continue ordering food at home even more than they did during the pandemic . In Ireland, the numbers are similar, with many consumers preferring the comfort and convenience of home dining over going out.

It’s not hard to see why. With busy schedules, the rising cost of living, and the comfort of our homes, more and more people are finding that dining in offers a more relaxed, enjoyable experience. And with services like Early Table’s "Dine at Home," you can enjoy restaurant-quality meals without the restaurant prices.

How to Make the Most of Your Dining at Home Experience

  1. Set the Scene: Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t create a special atmosphere. Light some candles, put on your favorite playlist, and set the table. It’s the little touches that make dining at home feel like a treat.

  2. Choose Your Favorites: With Early Table, you have access to some of the best restaurants in Dublin, so why not make the most of it? Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, Thai, or Indian, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

  3. Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix it up. Order a pizza from Base, some sides from Saba To Go, and dessert from Bombay Pantry. The beauty of dining at home is that you can tailor the meal exactly to your tastes.

  4. Take Advantage of the Savings: With up to 40% off, dining at home with Early Table is not only convenient but also cost-effective. Save the money you’d spend on tips, drinks, and transport, and treat yourself to something extra maybe that dessert you’ve been eyeing?

  5. Share the Love: Dining at home doesn’t mean dining alone. Invite friends or family over, or make it a virtual dinner party with loved ones who can’t be there in person. Food is meant to be shared, and with Early Table’s "Dine at Home" service, you can do just that.

 

The Future of Dining Is Home Comforts

As dining at home continues to grow, it’s clear that this is more than just a temporary shift it’s a new way of experiencing the best that our local food scenes have to offer. Whether it’s the convenience, the cost savings, or just the sheer comfort of eating at home, there’s no denying that more and more people are choosing their couch over a crowded restaurant.

With Early Table’s new "Dine at Home" service, you can enjoy some of Dublin’s best restaurants from the comfort of your own home and with up to 40% off, it’s easier than ever to treat yourself to a night in. So, next time you’re craving a great meal but don’t feel like going out, remember: the best dining experience might just be the one you have at home.

Ready to dive into some deliciousness at home? Check out Early Table’s "Dine at Home" options and start saving today.

 

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