Traditional Sunday roast is ‘changing’ as Brits opt for steak, fish & chips and lasagne instead, new study reveals

THE traditional Sunday lunch is changing with millions now opting for alternative menu options – with steak, fish and chips and even lasagne becoming more popular.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 46 per cent are now likely to choose something other than a roast from the menu when eating out on a Sunday.

Burgers, pie and mash and mac and cheese were also among the alternative dishes being chosen over the Sunday staple.

It also emerged 27 per cent feel the roast dinner is ‘overrated’.

A spokesperson for payment provider, Payit by NatWest, which commissioned the research and is available to UK Wetherspoon customers via the app, said: “It’s interesting to see how trends in hospitality, such as the Sunday lunch, are evolving.

“Even something as seemingly fundamental to British life as a Sunday roast might not be around forever – it’s a reminder that Brits embrace change and like choice.

“And while millions will still catch up while enjoying a ‘traditional’ Sunday lunch, there are also people who are open to exploring new options.”

The study also found that, of those who wouldn’t order a traditional Sunday lunch, 53 per cent want more variety of choices in a pub or restaurant.

While 19 per cent think alternative options are better from a health perspective.

Despite this, 17 per cent would opt for an all-day breakfast for lunch on a Sunday, and 15 per cent would sooner have a chicken tikka masala.

While preferences have shifted, consumers are still expecting some bang for their buck when it comes to Sunday lunch, with 42 per cent looking to spend between £11-£15 per person when eating out.

And the average Sunday lunch is expected to cost £14.63.

The study, carried out through OnePoll.com, also found 76 per cent have never used payment services other than cash or direct card payment for a Sunday lunch transaction.

Mark Brant, from NatWest, added: “People want to enjoy their meal and spend more time with the people they’re dining with and Payit comes with added security to reduce the risk of sensitive information of customers falling into the wrong hands.

“We hope to see more businesses adopting open banking in the UK over the next year so more customers can benefit from payment choice and enjoy a seamless payment experience at their favourite pubs and restaurants.”