It's often as simple as that. And the country that can't provide decent dining at a reasonable price, is doomed to lose its vitality in tourism. Russia is a current example. Often, however, visitors themselves can both lower the cost and increase the enjoyment of eating by wise decisions.
Local favorites are any nation's best dishes, well prepared and also cheap.
Drink what they're drinking . If, instead, you order a big breakfast in those countries, you'll pay through the nose for an inadequate meal. We feel intimidated, among other things, by foreign waiters. Order one plate for the two of you, or an appetizer for her and a main course for you, and then split what arrives. You'll still send uneaten food back to the kitchen, and save money at the same time.