America’s late-night fast-food culture may be making a comeback following years-long drastic decline
America's late-night fast-food culture is experiencing a potential resurgence after a significant decline. The number of restaurants offering 24-hour service has decreased by 18% from 2020 to 2024, largely due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising costs, labor challenges, and changing consumer habits continue to affect the viability of late-night dining options.
- ▪The number of restaurants offering 24-hour service declined by 18% between 2020 and 2024.
- ▪Rising food costs and inflation have made it difficult for restaurants to justify late-night service.
- ▪A survey indicated that 37% of Americans were eating out less frequently due to perceived rising costs.
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Food & Drink America’s late-night fast-food culture may be making a comeback following years-long drastic decline By Teresa Mull, Fox News Published May 23, 2026, 5:17 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Originally Published by: Longest-running Red Lobster location in America is closing after 56 years America's best-tasting pizza chain is an old-school favorite, survey finds Pizza Hut brings back vintage vibes as franchisees embrace nostalgic makeovers Late-night fast food and 24-hour dining — once staples of American convenience — have shrunk dramatically in recent years, though some chains are beginning to expand overnight hours again.
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