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Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The best (and worst) times to eat dinner, according to an expert
UK restaurants have seen a surge in 6pm bookings. Gone are the days of 9pm restaurant bookings and late-night Mediterranean-style banquets. For now, it's all about the 6pm dinner. According to new data from online reservation service OpenTable, the number of 6pm bookings in the UK have seen a sharp rise of 11% year-on-year, while hospitality tech company Zonal adds that 6.12pm has become the new national average. Interestingly, 5pm slots have also risen by 10% in the past year. Responding to the trend, which The Times has attributed to Gen Z, restaurants across London have begun introducing special menus, specifically catered towards early diners – much like pre-theatre offers. So, what's behind this trend? And is there a "right" time to eat your tea? Why are people eating earlier? There are a number of possible contributing factors – not least the influence of social media and the rise in hybrid working models post-COVID. Hannah Belsham, health and wellbeing physiologist at Nuffield Health's Highgate Hospital, tells Yahoo UK: "With more people working from home or having flexible hours, it's potentially easier to sit down to dinner sooner, with less commuting and more time to get extra commitments done sooner in the day." Even those commuting to the office may wish to dine earlier if they're eating out, especially if they need to catch a train. The rise in "What I Eat In a Day" videos may also be influencing this trend, along with Gen Z's move away from drinking culture. It's less about pints at the pub after work and more about wellbeing and nutrition. Earlier dinner times have long been favoured among Brits, though, with a 2020 YouGov poll revealing most UK adults (34%) sit down to eat between 6-6.59pm. The same poll showed 23% eat between 7pm-7.59pm and 25% between 5pm-5.59pm. Parenthood likely also contributes to this trend, with many adults opting to eat at the same time as their kids for ease. That said, research by Sainsbury's from January 2021 revealed that just 28% of households were sharing the same meal in the evening and 55% stated they struggled to sit down together for family meals. The impact of late-night eating According to Belsham, eating a large meal late at night can interrupt our circadian rhythm – the body's natural internal clock which regulates sleep, hormone production, and metabolism. "Digestion increases metabolic activity, raising body temperature and diverting blood flow to the gut when the body is preparing for rest. This misalignment can impair sleep onset and quality," she explains. Moreover, late-night eating is linked to impaired glucose metabolism. "Studies show that consuming high-calorie meals closer to bedtime can reduce insulin sensitivity, leading to higher blood sugar levels overnight, which over time may increase risk for metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes." But then, when we look to our Mediterranean counterparts, who generally eat far later than we do, they are the picture of health – with one study from Harvard suggesting they live longer, have better brain and heart health and have reduced risk of cancers. In fact, the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle is something many of us Brits try to emulate, owing to its many benefits. On this topic, Belsham notes: "Despite later dinner times, Mediterranean populations often exhibit excellent metabolic health and lower rates of chronic disease. This seeming paradox can be explained by meal composition and lifestyle. Mediterranean dinners emphasise nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, foods that produce a more gradual rise in blood sugar and are easier to digest. "Additionally, portion sizes tend to be moderate, and meals are typically social and relaxed events, which may reduce stress-related digestive issues and improve nutrient absorption. The physical activity common in these cultures also helps regulate metabolism and supports cardiovascular health," she adds. The best (and worst) times to eat your dinner As Belsham says, individual factors such as your lifestyle, digestive health, and sleep patterns will influence the optimal timing of your heaviest meal. "If you experience acid reflux, poor sleep, or discomfort after late dinners, it's worth experimenting with eating earlier (ideally finishing at least two to three hours before bedtime)," she recommends. On the other hand, if you routinely eat later without any negative symptoms and maintain good sleep and energy levels, your current routine may be well suited to your biology, per the expert. Practical recommendations Aim to complete your largest meal two to three hours before you go to bed to allow digestion to progress before sleep. Prioritise balanced meals rich in fibre, healthy fats, and lean proteins to stabilise blood sugar and reduce digestive strain. If you prefer later dinners, keep portions moderate and avoid overly fatty or spicy foods that can interfere with rest. Monitor your body's responses and adjust timing accordingly for optimal wellbeing. Ultimately, Belsham says, while there is no universal "perfect" dinner time, understanding how meal timing interacts with your circadian biology and lifestyle can help you make informed choices that support digestion, sleep, and long-term health. Read more about health and nutrition What you need to know about Japanese walking and how to do it every day (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read) How to BBQ – and not poison your guests (Yahoo Life UK, 7-min read) Why you shouldn't drink iced coffee on a hot day (Yahoo Life UK, 3-min read)
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The best (and worst) times to eat dinner, according to an expert
UK restaurants have seen a surge in 6pm bookings. Gone are the days of 9pm restaurant bookings and late-night Mediterranean-style banquets. For now, it's all about the 6pm dinner. According to new data from online reservation service OpenTable, the number of 6pm bookings in the UK have seen a sharp rise of 11% year-on-year, while hospitality tech company Zonal adds that 6.12pm has become the new national average. Interestingly, 5pm slots have also risen by 10% in the past year. Responding to the trend, which The Times has attributed to Gen Z, restaurants across London have begun introducing special menus, specifically catered towards early diners – much like pre-theatre offers. So, what's behind this trend? And is there a "right" time to eat your tea? Why are people eating earlier? There are a number of possible contributing factors – not least the influence of social media and the rise in hybrid working models post-COVID. Hannah Belsham, health and wellbeing physiologist at Nuffield Health's Highgate Hospital, tells Yahoo UK: "With more people working from home or having flexible hours, it's potentially easier to sit down to dinner sooner, with less commuting and more time to get extra commitments done sooner in the day." Even those commuting to the office may wish to dine earlier if they're eating out, especially if they need to catch a train. The rise in "What I Eat In a Day" videos may also be influencing this trend, along with Gen Z's move away from drinking culture. It's less about pints at the pub after work and more about wellbeing and nutrition. Earlier dinner times have long been favoured among Brits, though, with a 2020 YouGov poll revealing most UK adults (34%) sit down to eat between 6-6.59pm. The same poll showed 23% eat between 7pm-7.59pm and 25% between 5pm-5.59pm. Parenthood likely also contributes to this trend, with many adults opting to eat at the same time as their kids for ease. That said, research by Sainsbury's from January 2021 revealed that just 28% of households were sharing the same meal in the evening and 55% stated they struggled to sit down together for family meals. The impact of late-night eating According to Belsham, eating a large meal late at night can interrupt our circadian rhythm – the body's natural internal clock which regulates sleep, hormone production, and metabolism. "Digestion increases metabolic activity, raising body temperature and diverting blood flow to the gut when the body is preparing for rest. This misalignment can impair sleep onset and quality," she explains. Moreover, late-night eating is linked to impaired glucose metabolism. "Studies show that consuming high-calorie meals closer to bedtime can reduce insulin sensitivity, leading to higher blood sugar levels overnight, which over time may increase risk for metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes." But then, when we look to our Mediterranean counterparts, who generally eat far later than we do, they are the picture of health – with one study from Harvard suggesting they live longer, have better brain and heart health and have reduced risk of cancers. In fact, the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle is something many of us Brits try to emulate, owing to its many benefits. On this topic, Belsham notes: "Despite later dinner times, Mediterranean populations often exhibit excellent metabolic health and lower rates of chronic disease. This seeming paradox can be explained by meal composition and lifestyle. Mediterranean dinners emphasise nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, foods that produce a more gradual rise in blood sugar and are easier to digest. "Additionally, portion sizes tend to be moderate, and meals are typically social and relaxed events, which may reduce stress-related digestive issues and improve nutrient absorption. The physical activity common in these cultures also helps regulate metabolism and supports cardiovascular health," she adds. The best (and worst) times to eat your dinner As Belsham says, individual factors such as your lifestyle, digestive health, and sleep patterns will influence the optimal timing of your heaviest meal. "If you experience acid reflux, poor sleep, or discomfort after late dinners, it's worth experimenting with eating earlier (ideally finishing at least two to three hours before bedtime)," she recommends. On the other hand, if you routinely eat later without any negative symptoms and maintain good sleep and energy levels, your current routine may be well suited to your biology, per the expert. Practical recommendations Aim to complete your largest meal two to three hours before you go to bed to allow digestion to progress before sleep. Prioritise balanced meals rich in fibre, healthy fats, and lean proteins to stabilise blood sugar and reduce digestive strain. If you prefer later dinners, keep portions moderate and avoid overly fatty or spicy foods that can interfere with rest. Monitor your body's responses and adjust timing accordingly for optimal wellbeing. Ultimately, Belsham says, while there is no universal "perfect" dinner time, understanding how meal timing interacts with your circadian biology and lifestyle can help you make informed choices that support digestion, sleep, and long-term health. Read more about health and nutrition What you need to know about Japanese walking and how to do it every day (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read) How to BBQ – and not poison your guests (Yahoo Life UK, 7-min read) Why you shouldn't drink iced coffee on a hot day (Yahoo Life UK, 3-min read) Solve the daily Crossword
Eater
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Eater
Fulton Market's Best Restaurants
Momotaro Link Though it's one of the best sushi restaurants in Chicago, Boka Restaurant Group's Momotaro is much more than just nigiri and sashimi. Gene Kato uses a robata to grill succulent pieces of chicken thighs, lamb chops, scallops, and duck breast. Of course, the sushi is also undeniably excellent and full of decadent bites like otoro and uni. Downstairs, the casual Izakaya serves dishes such as ramen, a bao burger, and tonkatsu. Whether you're looking to have a nice date night or a low-key evening with friends, Momotaro fits the bill. Make a reservation on OpenTable. Search for reservations Capital One Dining* OpenTable * Book primetime tables set aside exclusively for eligible Capital One customers. Capital One Dining is the presenting partner of the Eater app.
Metro
a day ago
- General
- Metro
Gen Z eat like 'senior citizens' — and our chaotic world is to blame
While our friends over in Italy and Spain might be famous for their long, late-night suppers, when I'm making a dinner reservation, I opt for the standard 7pm. I have long assumed this is the norm – anything earlier, and I wouldn't be hungry – and frankly, eating during the late-afternoon feels a bit…uncool? But it turns out, Gen Z are switching it up. According to new research from OpenTable, 6pm is an increasingly in-demand time to eat out – with reservations for this time increasing by 11% in London and 6% UK-wide. Another 2024 study found that Gen Z were the most likely to make an earlier dinner booking. It's behaviour that saw one Gen Z TikToker dubbed a 'senior citizen' by her parents, and has even been branded 'loser' behaviour. So why the need to eat so early? The younger generation is famously fond of 'boundaries', and an earlier dinner dates represent a fundamental shift in this boundary-setting. 'Dining at 6pm may reflect a broader change in how people are structuring and managing their time,' Irene Scopelliti, professor of marketing and behavioural science at Bayes Business School, tells Metro. 'One key concept here is time affluence – the feeling of having more time. An early dinner extends the perceived length of the evening and creates a sense of control.' According to another 2024 OpenTable study, 39% said early booking allowed more free time afterwards to enjoy their evening solo. Irene adds that being exposed to uncertainty for a prolonged period of time can sometimes lead people to 'seek greater control and predictability in their personal environments.' And this might extend to Gen Z. Irene adds: 'This stronger preference for structures and routine among a demographic whose formative years have seen economic disruption, climate anxiety and geopolitical conflict.' The pandemic having a long-lasting affect on how we work may also have had an impact. As hybrid working patterns blur lines between work and home, Irene says people have 'new markers that signal this transition.' The 6pm dinner marks a clear break between the structured environment of work and the freedom of personal time. 'A 6pm dinner may serve as a behavioural cue to end the workday,' she says. 'It also sets a socially binding deadline to stop working, as once a plan is set, research shows that individuals are more likely to follow through.' There's also the financial aspect to consider. Gen Z come of age during a cost-of-living crisis, and can be more money-conscious than their elder counterparts. One 2024 study from Barclays revealing that they're more likely to take a considered approach to spending, both in terms of how much they spend and what they consume. More Trending There's often a gain to be had from booking an earlier dinner slot. For example, the First Table initiative offers diners in London the chance to book the first available table (often as early as 5pm on weekdays) for a 50% discount – a no-brainer amid a cost-of-living crisis that's squeezing British diners out of a meal out. For many, it's a treat – and a rare one at that. And, health-conscious Gen Z may be weighing up the health benefits too. A 2019 study found that those who eat late at night (within two hours of sleep) are 50% more likely to be impacted by obesity. Gen Zers are breaking from binge drinking habits, with research from Drinkaware finding that 16 to 24-year-olds were the most likely cohort to be sober. View More » Gym memberships among Gen Z have also almost doubled since 2020, and 30% are regularly working out at the gym, compared to between 15 and 25% of the total adult population. A 6pm start inevitably means and early night – meaning you can get up for that 6am gym class. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I bought a £420,000 flat with a friend — and then we fell out MORE: I went to 19 schools – I still struggle with the impact MORE: KöD's signature three-course menu for only £39.50: 10 unmissable Time Out deals Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
The Journal
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Journal
What time do you usually go out for dinner?
NEW DATA FROM Open Table suggests that Irish diners are now eating out at earlier times. The restaurant reservation platform told The Journal that Ireland has seen a 21% rise in diners eating between 4pm and 6pm this year, compared to the same period in 2024. Advertisement A Dublin restaurant owner has said he finds these figures unsurprising, linking the change in dining habits to a lack of interest in staying out late – something he believes is a 'product of Covid regulations'. So, today we're wondering: What time do you usually go out for dinner? Poll Results: Between 5pm and 7pm (410) Between 7pm and 9pm (318) I rarely/never eat out (96) Before 5pm (44) It varies (21) After 9pm (7) Before 5pm Between 5pm and 7pm Between 7pm and 9pm After 9pm It varies I rarely/never eat out Vote
