Early bird dinner

The prevalence of early bird dinners at American restaurants increased in the 1970s, as inflation caused a rise in Social Security payments, and more retired people could afford to eat at a restaurant. In the early 21st century, the offer became less common, as retiring baby boomers avoided things they associated with their parents' generation, and other options, especially fast food restaurants and delicatessens within grocery stores, offered hot food at lower costs all day long. The offer has become more popular with some younger groups, especially when the economy is weaker. ==Stereotypes==

Early bird dinners are often stereotypically associated with elderly people. . The association with lower-income elderly people has produced a stigma. This is sometimes avoided by re-branding the offering with names such as "twilight dinner", "sunset dinner" or "happy hour". Another approach is to offer other kinds of discounts, such as coupons or a menu with smaller portions at a lower cost. ==See also==