[greyeaglem]

A hundred years ago when I was in school, the chef told us the highest profit margins were in beverages (non-alcoholic) and potatoes. He said load the plate with potatoes so people go away full and they'll feel they got good value for their money. Pop and potatoes is what made McDonalds the giant that it is. Pasta would also fit this concept. Essentially this is sound, proven advice, and I believe the "potato" can change as other low cost items become available and familiar to the public.