Exploring spatial pattern of eateries in Calabar City, Cross River State, Nigeria

The study explored the spatial pattern of eateries distribution in Calabar city, Nigeria. Data collection was primarily through primary and secondary sources. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The nearest neighbour analysis revealed a clustered pattern of 47 eateries distributed with an Rn value of 0.37, z-score (− 8.23), ( P < 0.05). This form of distribution was mainly around the city centre, also known as the central business district. The study further showed a significant inverse relationship between the frequency of patronage and the distance of customers from the eateries (R value of − 0.68 at P < 0.05). This implies that the farther the distance of customers, the decrease the level of patronage of eateries. Furthermore, the study unravelled the major locational factors of eateries, such as security, high population density, and tourism attractions, representing a mean value of 0.8–1.0. The Chi-square (χ 2 ) analysis showed (df = 2) = 125.23, ( P < 0.05), implying that patronage of eateries significantly depend on the time of the day. It was recommended that government and business proprietors should consider the fundamental locational factors influencing spatial distribution of eateries, planning and establishment of eatery centres in the city for the sustainability of the business.