Cultural Differences in the Acceptance of the Minimal Consumption Concept: Guest Gastronomic Experience in Southeast European Hospitality

In light of contemporary changes in gastronomic offerings and tourist behaviour, this study analyses the effect of the new trend of predefined consumption in the hospitality sector on guest experience in Southeast European countries (Romania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Croatia, and Montenegro). The aim was to examine how this model influences guests’ perception, satisfaction, and behavioural intentions regarding recommendation and revisit. The research included 1,295 respondents across six countries in the region. The results indicate that guests’ ecological awareness positively affects the acceptance of the predefined consumption concept, whereas perception and satisfaction did not emerge as decisive factors in shaping behavioural intentions. Differences in guest attitudes across countries revealed certain statistically significant findings. The study highlights the potential of cost transparency as a tool for building trust and enhancing the gastronomic offer, particularly in the context of sustainability. The findings may serve as a foundation for further research focused on sustainable gastronomy, cultural differences, and consumer behaviour in diverse settings.