Secret Handshake and Tie Required

Being a night owl, I have dreams of one day living in a 24 hour world. With stipulations of course.
I love the solitude of the late night and don't want to create a 3rd shift existence; too many people to spoil the mood. But it would be nice if I could get Chinese food at 3 am, and hit the bookstore afterward. Denny's and Walmart just aren't doing it for me any more.

Since I tend to keep odd working hours, I drive through town after midnight a few times a week. And I'm pretty sure there's a secret society lurking beneath the consumer surface. Or the local mob.

I pass by a Peruvian restaurant, and regardless of the time of night, there are well dressed people at the entrance of the dim building. The sign isn't lit, there are very few lights on, but there's always a group of people going in and out and milling around as if waiting for a Christening to start. It's a mix of business casual and Sunday best dress, and everyone is smoking or talking on cell phones.

While dressed appropriately, I feel I may need a special invitation to join the party.

Occasionally, when I "miss" my turn and end up by the Krispy Kreme, I witness very similar proceedings at a Japanese restaurant. Here you can see inside however, and there is always a crowd of people eating and laughing in perfect commercial fashion. Again, very well dressed, but I've noticed they keep the door locked, and one guy stands guard, letting people in and out.

I'm intrigued.... and a little hungry.