Catering for the Night-time Crowd

As late-night dining continues to evolve, operators are rethinking what works after dark. This month, our experts share their insights for adapting to the pace, mood, and appetite of a night-time crowd.

Jack Godick Chef, Sucre Restaurant

Late night dining is an interesting challenge because, as we’ve all experienced, late-night cravings tend to call for something delicious and satisfying. But we also want to keep it light so that we can still have a good night’s sleep. So, with that in mind, I try and stick to simplicity and avoid heavy amounts of butter or anything with heavy ingredients.

Our empanadas are a perfect late-night snack. Salty, savoury, encased in crisp pastry and perfect with a nightcap. We have the options of either cheddar and caramelised onion or, for a little more richness, braised pork collar and pineapple empanadas. Amazing ingredients cooked over open fire is the simplest and most perfect combination for late night eating.

Frances Booth, Head of Marketing, Lotus Bakeries UK

Comforting choices are always most popular and late at night, nothing can beat a warm cookie or gooey brownie. To elevate the impact of these, we always recommend bakes that have an added layer of decadence and here Biscoff® ticks all the boxes! Delivering its original caramelised flavour and a distinct crunch. Our foodservice specific products, including 3kg tubs of Biscoff® spread, Biscoff® topping sauce and Biscoff® biscuit crumbs, makes it simple to enhance men

James Brown, Executive Chef, Unilever Food Solutions UK&I

Late-night diners respond strongly to elevated street food experiences such as Asian inspired sauces and international topping combinations. This mirrors 2026’s broader shift toward adventurous, globally influenced menus rooted in authenticity.

Blue Dragon Chow Mein Sauce can be used for Chicken or Vegetable Chow Mein Noodles that hold up during travel; this aligns with 2026 trends where familiar formats get bold global flavour twists.us.

Samantha Winsor, Marketing Manager, Lantmännen Unibake

Chicken burgers continue to be a key player on menus, opening endless possibilities including Mexican Chipotle, Florida Cajun and Tennessee Hot flavours. Toppings, sauces, and premium buns can transform a classic burger into a destination dish.

A seasonal or signature sauce can become a powerful point of difference — a smoky chipotle glaze for summer, a spicy maple drizzle in autumn, or a limited-edition chilli cheese can all help to give operators a point of difference. These additions require minimal operational change but can refresh core menu items, create buzz and drive
repeat visits.

When it comes to burgers – a gourmet bun is the secret to satisfaction. The bun isn’t just a vessel for the fillings, it’s a structurally critical component that can make or break the entire burger experience, including whether it can withstand a delivery journey.

Rebekha White, Brand Manager, Aimia Foods for Professionals

When it comes to evening drinks, customers are looking for items that amaze and are often willing to spend more on options that stand out. Creative cocktails can provide an ideal way of tapping into this market, appealing to more adventurous customers by offering something a little different.

Capitalising on the growing popularity of chai, operators can spice up their evening drinks menu by providing a flavoursome, low caffeine alternative to espresso martinis. Making it quick and easy to create tempting chai-tinis, Aimia Foods for Professionals have created the perfect solution with its new Drink me Chai RTD can. Blending Drink me Chai’s popular Spiced Chai Latte with semi-skimmed milk, this pre-prepared, chilled chai latte can easily be elevated by mixing with vodka, coffee liqueur and sugar syrup.

Fleur & Paul Owners, The Retreat

We focus on dishes that satisfy without slowing people down. Grilled cheese with sharp cheddar and sourdough stays popular because it’s quick, comforting, and easy to eat on the go. Bowls of ramen or noodle soup work well since they’re warm and filling but still light. Small plates like loaded fries or spiced chicken bites encourage sharing, but for sweeter cravings, brownies or pastries pair naturally with coffee and help extend the night. We avoid heavy meals that feel sluggish and instead keep flavours bold, salty, and slightly indulgent for late hours.