Eating out, once a casual weeknight affair, has become a special occasion for most Americans. With restaurant costs rising around 6% from early 2024 through late 2025, and groceries increasing by about 3% over the same period, diners are rethinking their habits. As a result, 61% of Americans now view dining out as a special occasion, not a regular one.

Backyard Gatherings on the Rise

Not only has the frequency of dining out changed, but so has the timing. Reservations in the 4-5 p.m. window have increased by 13% year over year, with many consumers building their evenings around earlier start times, lighter drinks, and smaller bites. This shift has been dubbed the “Afternoon Society” by Bacardi, with the “daycap” – a post-work cocktail that closes the day without kicking off a night out – becoming a popular choice.

Backyards are getting a serious upgrade as Americans invest in outdoor spaces for gatherings. With 77% of Americans wanting to spend more time outside at home, eating al fresco is one of the top activities they plan to do more of. Contractors are seeing a rise in demand for multi-zone outdoor layouts, with dedicated dining areas leading most projects.

The backyard has become the new gathering spot, with the absence of a check at the end or a two-hour table limit making it an attractive option for everyday dinners. As technology has made interactions less personal, in-person, screen-free gatherings are becoming more deliberate.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.