Nostalgic Gastronomic Spaces: The Impact of Perceived Authenticity and Nostalgia on Young Consumers’ Repurchase Intentions—A Case Study of Changsha Wenheyou

This study investigates the mechanisms influencing young consumers’ perceptions of authenticity, vicarious nostalgia, and repurchase intention in nostalgic consumption spaces, using Changsha Wenheyou as a case study. Through structural equation modeling (SPSS 22.0 with Mplus) of 554 valid questionnaires, the results show that: (1) Perceived authenticity positively promotes vicarious nostalgia, with significant contributions from cultural, atmospheric, and food perceptions; (2) vicarious nostalgia elicits both positive and negative emotions, but has a stronger impact on positive emotions, which in turn drive repurchase intention; (3) Perceived authenticity indirectly affects repurchase intention through the dual mediation of vicarious nostalgia and positive emotions; (4) Seeking novelty negatively moderates the relationship between perceived authenticity and vicarious nostalgia. By distinguishing vicarious nostalgia from traditional types, this study reveals how young consumers realize identity through non-experiential emotional projection and provides insights for cultural tourism scene design and marketing in China.