Early Dinners Are In: Why People Are Eating Out Sooner

"Earlier start times may encourage higher attendance since it does not require staying late for a work-related event,"

"People are more price-conscious right now, and early dining often provides access to better value, whether through prix-fixe menus, early-bird offerings or expanded happy hour selections,"

"Many restaurants offer specials from 4-7 p.m., so guests who start with a drink at five often transition straight into dinner at six to maximize value,"

Nearly half of surveyed diners prefer earlier dinner reservations, with 6 p.m. and early-evening bookings rising in popularity. Business meetings and work-related dinners are shifting toward afternoon or early evening to avoid staying out late. Many diners choose earlier times to access happy hour discounts, prix-fixe menus, and early-bird offerings that increase perceived value. Specials between 4–7 p.m. encourage guests to start with a drink at five and continue to dinner at six. Restaurateurs anticipate adapting by adding more energy at 6 p.m. and introducing new late-night specials to balance demand.

Read at www.delish.com