Choosing neighborhoods based on evening atmosphere rather than sightseeing lists

When choosing a hotel I used to prioritize distance from major attractions. Now I care just as much about what happens after dinner: is there a pleasant street to walk, a café open late and a straightforward way home? A central area can feel empty after business hours. How do you research the evening atmosphere of a neighborhood without relying on vague labels like ‘lively’ or ‘authentic’?