When the setting sun gives way to a rising moon, where does one go in the city to quell a restless evening appetite? In the first of a series, Dining after 6:00 pm, Thursday Food makes a stop at the bustling Tastee on Half Way Tree Road.

There's a long queue, which extends to the entrance of the eatery adjoining Tastee's flagship store in Cross Roads. Seems patties are as much in demand at night as they are at lunchtime. In fact Tastee marketing manager Krystalle Yee Keow confirms that the outlet is open until 10:00 pm to facilitate late diners who are guaranteed the usual freshly baked patties, which are sold until closing time. "Everything on the menu during the day is available until we close at 10:00 pm," she tells Thursday Food. "It would be unfair to our customers" explains Yee Keow "to exclude some things as it limits their choices". The menu options include several combos (fries and soda included) ranging from fried chicken and fish sandwiches to chicken nuggets and deli sandwiches. Naturally, patty combos are also available, as are pastries and smoothies.

As we chat up diners in the eatery, the familiar scent of patties wafting in the air, we spot evangelising Jehovah's Witnesses, their trademark Watchtower mags in hand, curiously peering through the glass window at us and the photographer. The crowd inside the store grows quickly, as scores of persons join the line for fast food service.

There are fewer dine-in customers as most opt for take-out. The dining area inside the restaurant is relatively small and atypical of fast food seating and decor; basic and functional. It is quick service after all.

Given it's the Lenten season, we ascertain that Tastee's fish sandwich combo is being offered at a special rate. Yee Keow informs, "We have customers who will not eat beef or chicken during Lent. As such, for those persons who just love the fish combo, we have dropped the price from $440 to $380."

Supper time at Tastees gives us the perfect opportunity to share laughter and conversation with a few customers.