Irish Restaurants See Surge in Early Bird Dinner Reservations

Restaurants across Ireland are experiencing a notable increase in early bird dinner reservations, with diners opting for meals between 16:00 and 18:00. This shift in dining habits has been attributed to the ongoing cost of living crisis and changes in lifestyle patterns following Covid-19. Data from the online reservation platform OpenTable indicates a 21% rise in early dining bookings this year compared to the same period in 2022.

The trend is particularly pronounced on Fridays and Mondays, where approximately 25% of diners are choosing to eat earlier. According to Sasha Shaker, Senior Director for the UK and Ireland at OpenTable, “Early bird dining is on the rise in Ireland, potentially spurred on by hybrid and remote working and lifestyle changes like a growing focus on wellness.”

Shaker noted that while Mondays and Fridays have experienced the most significant growth, there has also been an increase in early dining during the week, with Tuesdays up 19% and Thursdays up 17% year-over-year.

Impact of Lifestyle Changes on Dining Habits

The shift towards earlier dining does not surprise restaurateurs. Michael Martin, owner of Dublin’s Pacinos and the Blind Pig Speakeasy, attributes this change to the pandemic’s influence on daily routines. “Ever since Covid-19, people tend to eat earlier. It’s a product of Covid regulations,” he explained.

Martin has observed a marked decline in late-night patronage at his cocktail bar. He believes that the pandemic has led many to adopt earlier bedtimes and a reduced interest in late-night outings. To adapt, he has adjusted his opening hours, now welcoming customers at 16:00 instead of 17:00 and introducing live music from 22:30 to draw in late-night crowds. He is even contemplating changing weekend closing times from 01:30 to 00:30.

This change in dining habits appears to be beneficial for Martin’s business, as he suggests that early diners tend to spend more during the initial hours of service. “The truth is it’s worked out better with people going out earlier; their consumption is greater in the first two hours of the night than the last two hours,” he stated.

Cost of Living Crisis Drives Dining Choices

The changing dining landscape is further influenced by economic factors. A waitress at a hotel restaurant in Athlone noted a significant increase in early evening reservations, especially among families with young children and individuals choosing not to drink. She believes that the cost of living crisis has compelled diners to opt for early reservations to avoid peak hours.

“It’s so expensive to eat out now that people can’t really afford the extra drinks or sides they might like,” she remarked, highlighting the trend of couples adhering strictly to their prepaid dinner packages without opting for additional courses. The rising costs of food and beverages have also been noticeable, with some menu items increasing by €3 to €4.

Martin’s experience reflects a broader trend. While business remains stable, he acknowledges that rising costs are impacting profitability. As dining preferences shift, he remains hopeful for a rebound in late-night dining culture, stating, “You like to think it will rebound. I’m holding firm in the hope we will get it back.”

The surge in early bird dining in Ireland illustrates how societal changes and economic pressures are reshaping the culinary landscape. As restaurants adapt to these new trends, it remains to be seen how long this preference for early dining will persist.