Interesting Facts

According to research carried out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and water filter company Brita UK, Brits are needlessly buying bottled water in restaurants and pubs because they feel too awkward to ask for free tap water. (Many people are unaware of the fact that, in England, Scotland and Wales, licensed premises such as bars, restaurants and theatres are required by law to provide free drinking water on request (although they can charge for the use of a glass). Of course there is nothing worse than an awkward Brit, and I fully understand our reluctance to dare to ask for something for nothing.)

According to a survey run by Age Partnership, to find out what key lifestyle changes can best improve your mood, women are made happier by getting a dog or cat, while men’s positivity is boosted by joining a club or buying a new car. (For Brits over 55 a pub lunch was viewed as an easy way of improving your mood. The three most affordable options were eating out once a month, going on a monthly organised day trip and being in a club. The three least affordable lifestyle changes are getting a conservatory, buying a new car or buying a campervan – all of which are impossible to afford on the state pension alone, and if money were no object, the most effective happiness promoter for the over-55s would be to go on holiday.) Source

A Japanese restaurant has come up with a novel idea for lone diners. The Moomin House Café offers solo customers the company of a Moomin stuffed toy while they eat. (The themed cafe offers biscuits, coffee art and even the wallpaper in the Moomin theme . Diners are even greeted by a Moomin character at the door. Personally I would rather eat alone, discreetly.) If you're not sure what a Moomin is:  http://youtu.be/oiZ0eBFTH6k

According to a study by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development), the French devote nearly twice the time to meals than do Americans, Britons or Mexicans. (Of course the French take eating very seriously, and whatever you do, don't try to talk about work during lunch. That said, the credit crunch is having an effect. According to the Guardian newspaper, over 3,000 traditional French restaurants, cafes and bars went bust in the first three months of 2008.)

According to his ex-wife Cecilia, Nicolas Sarkozy never had dinner at home in eight years. (There's a moral in there somewhere.)

According to research by cheese maker Castello 56% of diners will not ask the wine waiter for advice in case he recommends something too expensive. (The survey also revealed that many people suffer from "second cheapest wine syndrome" - rejecting the cheapest wine on the list to conceal their ignorance in front of waiters and friends.)

In London the average price per head for three courses, a shared bottle of house wine, coffee and a tip is £36.82. (I was a bit surprised at this - I thought it would be more.)