Savoring the signals of luxury: how perceived luxury dining cues shape eudaimonic well-being

Purpose Grounded in the concept of eudaimonic well-being, this study investigates how luxury dining experiences enhance individuals’ well-being. Specifically, it examines the psychological mechanism by which luxury dining promotes self-esteem, categorized into self-competence and self-worth. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative methodology was employed, utilizing a between-subjects experimental design with 713 US participants. The study examines the impact of luxury dining experience on self-perception and investigates the moderating role of consumer involvement. Findings The results demonstrate that perceived luxury dining cues enhance self-competence and self-worth, which, in turn, contribute to personal well-being. Notably, these positive effects are more pronounced for individuals with lower dining involvement, suggesting greater psychological benefits for less-involved diners. Practical implications Restaurateurs should market luxury dining as an opportunity for self-reward and personal growth. Strategies should target low-involvement diners through experience-based campaigns and accessible events, such as Restaurant Week, to lower entry barriers, broaden market appeal and enhance diner well-being. Originality/value This study shifts the paradigm of luxury dining from hedonic gratification to eudaimonic growth. Empirically demonstrating the influence of luxury dining experience on self-esteem provides theoretical advancements in well-being research and offers strategic insights for market expansion.