A Hollywood-style lifestyle
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have adopted a lifestyle that evokes the great stars of Hollywood. Although they do not belong to the film industry, their daily lives are full of luxuries and extravagances that rival those of any celebrity. However, this lifestyle has also brought with it significant economic challenges.
The couple’s favorite restaurant
The couple’s favorite restaurant, Lucky’s Steak House, perfectly reflects their taste for opulence. Located in Montecito, California, very close to their mansion, this exclusive establishment has become the favorite place of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for special dinners. With over 445 positive reviews on Google, the restaurant is known for both its excellent cuisine and its elegant atmosphere.
An exclusive culinary experience
The dishes at Lucky’s Steak House are not affordable for everyone. A “Porterhouse” fillet can cost more than 175 euros, while a fillet of sole is priced at approximately 65 euros. Despite these high prices, the restaurant also offers more affordable options, such as a house salad for about 23 euros, which includes gourmet ingredients such as shrimp, green beans, avocado and Roquefort cheese.
A sophisticated atmosphere
The restaurant’s decor adds appeal to the place, with a combination of outdoor tables surrounded by flowers and a sober interior that uses black and beige colors. This atmosphere has made Meghan and Harry feel comfortable and frequent the place, being considered regular customers by the staff.
The financial reality behind the glamor
Despite the image of luxury and sophistication they project, Meghan and Harry’s financial reality is far from being so dazzling. Since moving to the United States in 2020 and stepping away from royal duties, the couple has faced a series of financial difficulties. The ‘Archewell’ foundation, which they both lead, has seen a significant decline in donations, its recent tax returns reveal.
Additionally, the California Department of Justice has labeled ‘Archewell’ as a ‘delinquent’ for failing to file annual reports and pay required fees. The estrangement of the Royal Family has meant the loss of public funds and the privileges and titles that used to generate income and status. They no longer represent the monarchy at official engagements, which has had a direct impact on their finances.
An unsustainable lifestyle
The high cost of maintaining their lifestyle has exceeded the couple’s income. Spending on exclusive restaurants, lavish properties and other luxuries has contributed to his financial problems. Choosing to live like Hollywood stars without actually being one has proven to be a double-edged sword for Meghan and Harry. Although they enjoy an enviable standard of living, economic pressures continue to accumulate.
Since arriving in Montecito, home prices in the area have increased significantly, with homes now having a median price of nearly $4 million. While this increase could benefit them in terms of the value of their property, it also reflects the high cost of maintaining a luxury life in one of the most exclusive areas of California.