New Yorkers are eating fewer restaurant meals than a year ago, and when they do, they’re skimping on appetizers, desserts and alcohol, according to the latest edition of the Zagat guide, released today.
But Zagat Survey co-founder Tim Zagat said the upside of the downturn is that restaurants are trying harder to please.
He said 56 percent of the 38,868 people who completed surveys said they’re finding better deals, and 37 percent said it’s become easier to get a table.
“People think they’re getting better service,” he said. “They think restaurants are appreciating them more.”
Gramercy Tavern was the most popular restaurant, and its sibling, Union Square Cafe, was No. 2. Both are run by Danny Meyer.
Le Bernardin, chef Eric Ripert’s French seafood temple, won the top food ranking.