The Great Food Court Controversy

Did you know that where you shop affects where you eat? Its true . Shop at a fancy mall and pay higher prices for even the most mundane meal or snack. Shop at a mall that features mid range anchor stores and boutiques and you'll actually be saving money on your next taco or pizza slice. It's not strange , it just depends on the quality of the mall.



This practice is blatantly evident in New Jersey where there seems to be a mall in almost every town. Eat lunch or even dinner at one that has ritzy anchor stores like Neiman's and Nordstrom's and you'll pay more for your Wendy's or Taco Bell meal. Prices usually go up by anywhere from a dime to fifty cents. Order a Wendy's baked potato at a mall in tony Bergen County, pay almost two dollars for it . Order the same item in the less prosperous Hudson County malls and save a few cents. The same is true for other chain fast food restaurants.


I don't know if this is true for the more pricier chain eateries such as Legal Seafood or Ruby Tuesdays. I think their prices are standard no matter where they're located whether at a covered mall , strip mall or as a free standing building. There is probably more control over them than at the privately owned franchises. Should you eat at these higher end restaurants then? If you want to, go ahead, but only for a fun splurge . The food court is still a great place fora budget meal or a quick snack. Although shop around for whoever can get you the best deal for your dollar.


If you're on a budget then watch where you eat. Usually malls in more expensive areas will not have any bargains whether at the racks or at the food court.Save by heading to the lower end ones. You'll squeeze out a few more pennies both on clothing and also on on your lunch or dinner.