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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the restaurant industry, leading to the adoption of preventive measures such as mask wearing, social dis- tancing, and specific distancing guidelines. This paper comprises three chapters that provide a comprehensive analysis of decision-making behavior in restau- rants during the pandemic, considering preventive measures, demographics, risk perception, and individual preferences for COVID-19 safety. Chapter I em- ploys a choice experiment and Random Utility Maximization (RUM) models to assess consumers’ preferences for COVID-19 safety measures in dining ser- vices. Survey data from multiple states is analyzed to explore preferences for out- door tables, social distancing, and mask usage. Chapter II investigates changes in dine-out and take-out patterns worldwide due to COVID-19, controlling for demographics and risk perception. Higher perceived health risks and adherence to guidelines are associated with decreased dine-out and increased take-out oc- casions. Income and education level positively affect the number of take-out orders. Chapter III reviews existing literature on mask wearing, social distanc- ing, and demographics’ influence on decision-making in restaurants during the pandemic. These findings contribute to understanding the socioeconomic consequences of COVID-19 and provide insights for foodservice industry to develop targeted strategies.