Which of the following is NOT a factor influencing restaurant pricing strategy?

The factor that does not directly influence a restaurant's pricing strategy is ambiance design. While a restaurant's ambiance can enhance the dining experience and potentially affect customer satisfaction, it doesn't directly correlate with the pricing of menu items.

In contrast, market trends play a crucial role in determining how pricing is crafted. Restaurants must adapt to what is currently popular among consumers, adjusting prices to match the perceived value in the market. Competition also significantly affects pricing strategies; restaurants need to consider what similar establishments charge for similar offerings to stay competitive and attract customers. Lastly, food cost is a fundamental consideration since the price of ingredients directly impacts profit margins; understanding and managing these costs is essential when determining menu prices.

Thus, while ambiance is important for the overall experience and may influence customer retention, it is not a primary factor in formulating pricing strategies compared to market trends, competition, and food costs.