The pandemic’s impact on late-night dining and retail operations can still be felt years after its onset. Yelp statistics indicate a significant decline in 24-hour service availability, with restaurants experiencing an 18% drop in 24-hour operations from 2020 to 2024. Notably, New York City saw a 13% reduction in its 24-hour restaurants.

This trend extends beyond eateries to retailers, pharmacies, and gyms, which haven’t resumed 24-hour operations since the Covid-19 took hold in America. The change reflects shifts in consumer behavior, including preferences for earlier dining and decreased late-night alcohol consumption, as well as increased labor and food costs which force establishments to curtail hours.

While approximately half of IHOP’s locations and 75% of Denny’s restaurants are resuming 24-hour service on weekends, the overall landscape for 24/7 operations remains challenging, due to concerns about staffing difficulties and public safety.

Despite these obstacles, the desire for 24/7 service remains, evidenced by the enduring appeal of late-night dining as a cultural symbol in America. The transition back to pre-pandemic levels of late-night activity will likely depend on a resurgence of nightlife and events that drive demand for such services.