Nearly two thirds (63%) of consumers admit that they are dining in restaurants less often than they did 12 months ago, while more than four in five (82%) report cutting back on restaurant spending. This is according to a new survey by Square, the payment-and-technology company, which shows that the rising cost of doing business, coupled with a consumer slowdown in spending, is putting Irish restaurateurs under pressure. ADVERTISEMENTAccording to Square, restaurant owners are increasingly looking to technology as a solution to their financial challenges. Nearly two thirds (62%) say that they are likely to implement AI into their business practices. Tech Skills GapDespite this enthusiasm, the survey shows that a tech skills gap remains, with nearly a quarter (21%) saying that implementing new technology is one of their most challenging tasks.