When the clock strikes midnight, and the urge for a delicious meal kicks in, not all cities are created equal. While some places start winding down after dinner, others come alive, offering vibrant late-night dining scenes that cater to night owls.
Here’s a look at some of the world’s top late-night dining capitals, according to a report by Chef’s Pencil after analyzing the dinner reservation calendars of over 4,400 restaurants in 89 cities worldwide where you can easily book a meal long after the sun has set.
Cairo, Egypt: The night owl’s paradise
Topping the list is Cairo, where dining late is practically a way of life. The Egyptian capital boasts an average last seating time of midnight, making it the ultimate destination for those who want to enjoy a meal after a long day of exploring ancient pyramids or the new Grand Egyptian Museum.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A close second
Not far behind is Jeddah, where you can secure a table as late as 11:30 pm. This city, known for its rich history and proximity to Mecca, offers a plethora of dining options that remain open well into the night, especially in popular areas like Corniche and Tahlia Street.
New Delhi and Mumbai, India: The late-night duo
Tied with Jeddah are two of India’s most bustling cities, New Delhi and Mumbai. In these cities, it’s common to find restaurants serving food until midnight, especially in hotspots like Connaught Place in New Delhi or Bandra in Mumbai. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy curry or street food, these cities won’t disappoint.
Middle Eastern Gems: Dubai, Doha, and Muscat
If you’re exploring the Middle East, Dubai, Doha, and Muscat should be on your list. These cities have embraced the late-night dining culture, with last seating times around 11:00 pm. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find plenty of spots to grab a meal late into the night.
Madrid, Spain: Europe’s late-night champion
Madrid is often celebrated for its late-night dining scene, and it doesn’t disappoint. With the last seating times averaging 11:00 pm, it’s the top European city for those who like to eat late. Whether it’s tapas or a full meal, Madrid’s vibrant restaurants are ready to serve.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Latin America’s nightlife hub
In Latin America, Buenos Aires stands out for its lively nightlife and equally late dining options. Restaurants here typically serve until 11:00 pm or later, allowing you to enjoy Argentina’s famous steaks or a night out on the town without worrying about closing times.
Miami and Las Vegas, USA: America’s late-night cities
In the United States, Miami and Las Vegas lead the pack with last seating times around 10:30 pm. Miami, known for its vibrant cultural scene, and Las Vegas, with its never-ending entertainment, both offer plenty of options for those seeking a late bite.
The cities that sleep early
On the flip side, in Cape Town and Johannesburg, the average last seating time, or final food order, was around 9:00 pm, making them among the earliest closers globally. They ranked similar to cities like Helsinki, Sydney, and Seoul. Worldwide, only Auckland, New Zealand, and Luxembourg had earlier last seating times, averaging 8:30 pm. So, if you’re planning a late dinner, these might not be the best destinations.
Whether you’re a night owl or just looking to enjoy a meal after a long day, these cities offer some of the best late-night dining experiences in the world. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider a destination where the lights stay on, and the kitchens stay open.
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