Historical clue formulations

• Diner sign — 2019-03-17
• Not closing before 10 or 11 p.m. — 2018-12-13
• Welcoming diners at midnight, say — 2017-09-17
• Like many a restaurant drive-thru — 2012-11-29
• Neon sign on many diners — 2010-07-08
• Like most bars — 2010-02-19