See the idea of going out for a walk at, say 7pm, and then the baby sleeping while you eat at 8pm is the ideal
Both of my babies’ eyes popped open the second I dared to stop wheeling the pram
Yes it's certainly not something the OP should rely on. But it could be worth giving it a go. My DS was great in a pubs and restaurants and never slept at 7! He was more usually up till about 10pm (to the horror of my MIL!) So we'd just take him along with us if we were going out. He didn't cry much either, he was a very contented baby!
Once he was a toddler, however all that was over! He wouldn't sit still for anyone, didn't want to sit and eat, just wanted to run about. Our lovely Sunday lunches in pubs ended then! He did once fall asleep in the buggy the late afternoon once on a day out, so we grabbed the opportunity and popped into a Thai restaurant while he slept for an early dinner, which was lovely.
DD was totally different. She slept earlier and would be fractious if kept up late. She liked to be held when tired, so I could have her sleep on my chest in a sling when out, but she wouldn't have tolerated being in a buggy, she wanted to be close to me.
Each baby and mother is different. The key to travelling with little ones IMO is to be flexible and go with the flow, and take what opportunities arise to do your own thing!
I've taken my DC many long train journeys as babies and toddlers, the longest being about 8 hours (2 changes), a journey I've done a number of times. I've taken them on short flights, gone to festivals and away with friends.
And, with a couple of notable exceptions, it's been fine!
The key is to plan ahead, think carefully about how carrying your luggage will work with the baby, and then just do it!