Restaurants are having a hard time staying open. Several of my favorite
places to dine have closed their doors, after many years of service to
loyal customers. In order to survive, some restaurant eateries have begun to offer creative choices for "supper," including smaller portion options, unique
combinations, and even allowing meals to be shared, with a small added
surcharge.
Some restaurants now offer free beverages with meals, or dessert, without
additional charge. I have noticed some restaurants asking for "cash only,"
to help defray their costs. If the consumer is paying more at the supermarket,
then the restaurant owners are certainly paying more for all of their ingredients
and services. Waiters and waitresses report fewer and smaller tips.

Are we eating out less because of our worsening economy, higher gas prices,
or are we spending more on other choices?

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