I have noticed that many US restaurants have a cheaper 'early diner' menu. What sort of slot are they referring too - eg in by seven out by eight?
Thanks, Hilary

It varies from restaurant to restaurant but generally "Early" means before 6:00PM. Some restaurants that cater to the theather crowd in large cities offer "Prix Fixe" dinners if you are finished by a certain pre-determined time. Doubtful you'd find any place that will give you lower prices during the 7:00PM to 8:00PM range.

LOL, around here, the "early" specials are for those who arrive by 5:30 or 6. It probably varies by city and by restaurant, so you'd have to ask them.

Earlier than that. Usually between 4 and 6 PM. Smaller portions, smaller price. Here in Florida, the "grayhairs" love it, as they usually are in bed by eight!

thanks everyone - I think I can forget 'early diner' menus - I dont think I have eaten dinner as early as six o'clock since my schooldays - in spite of (Florida person) being in my sixties! Hilary

Gray hairs don't go to bed at 8. We go to bed at 9:30-10:00.

I've preferred eating early all my life! I remember my salesman step dad often being late 7-8 pm coming home, pushing our dinner back. I was starving by 5:30 and felt badly going to bed on a full stomach, those days that I ate late.

I realize this is not the norm, but we still prefer early dining. Still, on special occasions, we do the late thing, but you know, I always have the worst time trying to go to sleep afterwards!

In NYC they are frequently referred to as "pre-theater", and the restaurants don't necessary have to be in the Broadway theater district.

The time limit does vary. Some restaurant extent it to all hours, and some only on certain days.

Love early dinners; I'm up by 5:30 every a.m., lunch at 11, very ready for dinner by 5 or 6(and like not sleeping on a full stomach).