Eating for Free

Restaurant owners certainly aren’t having a good year. From widespread job loss to lingering worries about the country’s economic future, record numbers of families have begun cooking at home rather than spending money eating out—leading to a 14 percent drop in business at fine-dining restaurants so far in 2009.

For customers still going out on a regular basis, however, the dining scene has never looked better.

That’s because many restaurants are finding that coupons and discounted specials just aren’t enough anymore. Instead, they’re being forced to go the extra mile and get creative—letting kids eat free, giving away discounted tickets to movies, and even throwing in complimentary cocktails and wine…

Recession Briefing 6.23

What you need to know today to survive and thrive in the recession.

Barely half of Americans are now confident that President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus measure will boost the economy, according to a new poll. (Washington Post)

Lines at soup kitchens are growing across the U.S. as they cater to a growing number of families struggling to make ends meet. (Guardian)

Shelters are struggling to house the increasing numbers of pets being abandoned by cash-strapped owners. (CBS News/Early Show)

Downturn Deals: Dining’s ‘Winter Specials’

Now appearing discreetly in leather-bound menus all over New York City: “winter specials,” which offer five-star dining at surprisingly reasonable prices.

We all know they’re just dressed-up “recession specials,” but upscale eateries don’t seem ready to embrace the R word yet. That’s fine. Whatever you want to call them, here are five of the best high-end meal deals in Manhattan.