Authorities cook up new ways of attracting foodies

Large parts of Beijing lack enough eateries to handle the rising demand from late-night diners, according to a recent report.

Most restaurants that stay open until midnight are located within the Second Ring Road, but people living further out, between the East Second Ring Road and the East Fifth Ring Road, have the strongest desire for late-night meals, according to the report, published in June by Beijing Business Today, a media outlet, and Ele.me, an online delivery service provider.

It said extending opening hours incurs greater overheads for restaurateurs, especially additional financial burdens, such as extra wages for staff members, higher utility bills and the need to stock up on more foodstuffs and ingredients.