Sainsbury’s has sparked fresh concern among cost-conscious shoppers as reports indicate a significant price increase to its popular dine-in meal deal for two. The move, rumoured to be as high as 25%, comes amidst a backdrop of relentlessly rising food prices, leaving customers questioning the value of the once-reliable supermarket treat.
The dine-in deal, a long-standing favourite for couples and households seeking a restaurant-quality experience at home, has traditionally included a main course, a side dish, a dessert, and a drink for two. This latest price adjustment pushes the offering into a new bracket, forcing a direct and less favourable comparison with its main supermarket rivals.
The New Cost of a Night In: A Competitive Snapshot
While Sainsbury’s has yet to issue a formal statement detailing the new pricing structure, the reported 25% increase suggests a substantial leap. To put this in context, here is the current state of play for premium “dine-in for two” deals across the major UK supermarkets as of August 2025:
| Supermarket | Deal Name | Price | What’s Included |
| Sainsbury’s | Taste the Difference Dine-In | £15 (Reported) | Main, Side, Dessert, Drink |
| Tesco | Finest Dine In | £15 | Main, Side, Dessert, Drink |
| M&S | Gastropub Dine In | £15 | Main, Side, Starter/Dessert |
| Morrisons | The Best Dine In | £15 | Starter, Main, Side, Dessert, Drink |
| Asda | Bistro Dine in for 2 | ~£12 | Starter, Main, Side, Dessert |
Export to Sheets
As the table illustrates, a price move to £15 would bring Sainsbury’s in line with Tesco, M&S, and Morrisons, effectively ending its historic position as a slightly more budget-friendly option for a premium night in. Asda currently appears to be the most affordable contender in this space.
Why the Sudden Surge? The Ripple Effect of Food Inflation
The driving force behind this price hike is undoubtedly the sustained pressure of food inflation. A spokesperson for the British Retail Consortium recently highlighted the ongoing challenges, stating, “Retailers are battling significant cost increases from every angle, from soaring energy bills and supply chain disruption to rising commodity prices. Unfortunately, some of these costs inevitably have to be passed on to the consumer.”
Sainsbury’s itself has previously commented on the difficult trading conditions, citing the need to balance fair prices for suppliers with providing value for customers. While the supermarket has expanded its range and introduced new premium items to its dine-in selection, the sharp increase may be a difficult pill for many shoppers to swallow.
Is the Sainsbury’s Dine-In Deal Still Good Value?
With the new price point, the question of value for money becomes paramount. The “Taste the Difference” range, which forms the core of the dine-in offer, is positioned as Sainsbury’s premium tier, boasting high-quality ingredients and more sophisticated recipes.
However, with competitors like Morrisons offering a comprehensive four-course meal with a drink for the same price, and M&S providing the perceived prestige of its Gastropub range, Sainsbury’s will need to convince its customers that the quality of its offering justifies the cost.
Financial experts suggest that consumers are becoming increasingly savvy, meticulously comparing deals and prioritising overall value. “The ‘treat’ economy is shrinking,” notes a retail analyst. “If a household has £15 to spend on a special meal, they will now be looking more closely than ever at what each supermarket offers for that price. Brand loyalty is being tested.”
What Shoppers Can Do
For those still seeking a special meal at home without the hefty price tag, several options remain:
- Explore other deals: Competitors’ offers may now represent better value.
- Shop own-brand: Consider creating a “dine-in” experience by selecting individual premium own-brand items, which may work out cheaper than the set deal.
- Look for loyalty perks: Tesco’s Clubcard prices and Morrisons’ More Card offers often provide additional savings.
- Time your purchases: Supermarkets frequently discount items nearing their sell-by date, offering significant savings for those willing to be flexible.
The coming weeks will reveal the full impact of Sainsbury’s price adjustment on consumer behaviour. In a market where every penny counts, the battle for the nation’s dinner table has never been more fierce.
