Last call for late night? Customers are back, but bars and restaurants closing earlier as demand dwindles

CHICAGO -- A few years ago, The Long Room could be quiet as a library until about 8 p.m. without the Chicago bar’s co-owner, Jason Burrell, thinking twice. The rush was still on the way.

Now, that scenario gives him sweats.

“I’d be on pins and needles,” Burrell said. “I’d be like, ‘Come on, I’ve got bills to pay!’ ”