Ikaria, Greece
On the Greek island of Ikaria, locals often eat their main meal as late as 10 p.m., gathering with family in laughter-filled kitchens. Despite this late-night dining, Ikarians are renowned for their exceptional longevity. According to a 2024 study published in The Lancet, Ikaria has one of the world’s highest percentages of people living past 90. Their diet, rich in olive oil, legumes, and wild greens, supports cardiovascular health and reduces inflammation. Researchers from Harvard found that the social aspect of eating late—sharing meals and conversations—may lower stress hormones, which is linked to longer life. Late meals here are less about convenience and more about deep-rooted cultural traditions.
Sardinia, Italy
In the mountainous villages of Sardinia, families gather for dinner around 9 p.m. or even later, especially during festivals or big family occasions. Data from the Italian National Institute of Statistics in 2023 shows that Sardinia has nearly 10 times more centenarians per capita than the United States. Their Mediterranean diet includes homemade breads, goat’s milk, fava beans, and plenty of wine, all consumed during leisurely evening meals. A 2025 review in the European Journal of Nutrition emphasized that these late dinners are balanced and light, not heavy, allowing for restful sleep and stable blood sugar. Longevity here is attributed to both diet and the slower, more relaxed pace of dining.
Okinawa, Japan
In Okinawa, dinner is a late affair, often starting after 8 p.m. and stretching into the evening. The Okinawan diet—recently studied by the Okinawa Research Center in 2024—focuses on sweet potatoes, tofu, seaweed, and small portions of fish, with minimal processed foods. Longevity is legendary: Okinawa still boasts one of the world’s longest life expectancies, with an average lifespan of 84 years according to Japan’s Ministry of Health. Researchers connect this to the “hara hachi bu” practice, where people stop eating when 80% full, even during late meals. Social eating and regular evening gatherings are believed to support strong community ties, which have been linked to lower rates of chronic illness.
Madrid, Spain
In Madrid, dinner rarely begins before 9 p.m., and it’s not unusual for restaurants to fill up at 10 or 11 p.m. Despite this, Spain consistently ranks among the top countries for life expectancy, with a national average of 83 years as reported by the World Health Organization in 2024. Spanish meals emphasize fresh vegetables, seafood, and olive oil, often enjoyed in the company of friends and family. A 2023 study from the University of Navarra found that eating late did not increase obesity risk when combined with the traditional Mediterranean diet. The slow-paced, social dinners are credited with reducing stress and supporting overall well-being.
Nice, France
In Nice and across the French Riviera, dinner is a drawn-out event that may not start until 8:30 or 9 p.m., especially during summer. The French paradox—a term coined by researchers after observing low heart disease rates despite high-fat diets—continues to intrigue scientists. INSEE (France’s national statistics bureau) reported in 2024 that life expectancy in this region is among the highest in France, surpassing 85 years for women. Local cuisine features lots of vegetables, lean meats, seafood, and modest portions, all complemented by red wine. Studies from 2023 highlight that mindful eating, even when late, helps regulate appetite and digestion, contributing to longevity.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
In Buenos Aires, it’s normal for families to sit down to dinner at 10 p.m. or later, especially on weekends. Argentina has seen rising life expectancy, reaching 77 years in 2024 according to the World Bank. The traditional diet includes grilled meats, plenty of vegetables, and moderate wine, but meals are rarely rushed. A 2025 survey by the University of Buenos Aires found that people who regularly ate late, but in a relaxed, social setting, had lower rates of metabolic syndrome. The culture of “sobremesa”—lingering over conversation after the meal—was noted as an important factor in reducing stress and promoting longer, healthier lives.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi’s vibrant food culture means that dinners start late and often go past midnight, especially during celebrations. Georgia’s population has a surprising number of people living past 90, highlighted in a 2024 demographic study by the Georgian National Statistics Office. Traditional Georgian meals include lots of fresh herbs, walnuts, whole grains, and fermented dairy, all shared family-style. Researchers from Tbilisi State University in 2023 pointed out that the combination of late meals and strong social bonds at the table helps regulate mental health and digestion. The relaxed approach to eating, with laughter and music, is seen as a key part of healthy aging.
Tel Aviv, Israel
In Tel Aviv, it’s common for dinner to be served after 9 p.m., with cafes and restaurants buzzing late into the night. Israel’s life expectancy reached 83 years in 2025, according to the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics. The Israeli diet emphasizes vegetables, legumes, fish, whole grains, and olive oil—components of the Mediterranean diet known for reducing heart disease risk. A 2024 study from Tel Aviv University found that late eating did not negatively affect metabolic health when meals were balanced and not overly heavy. The city’s culture of vibrant, shared meals and outdoor dining appears to foster both happiness and longevity.
