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You're not going to believe this, but according to the new edition of the Zagat guide, which officially comes out today, "New Yorkers are eating fewer restaurant meals than a year ago, and when they do, they're skimping on appetizers, desserts and alcohol." Crazy, huh? In other shocking news, the survey reports that people are "finding better deals" when they go out to eat and are having an easier time getting reservations.

The only somewhat surprising figure included in Zagat's findings? That more restaurants opened in 2009 (157) than closed (102). The tally only reflects a small percentage of NYC eateries—it's limited to restaurants Zagat considers "notable"—so you may want to take the figure with a grain of salt. Or you could chalk it up to a sign things are getting better for the restaurant industry, which would certainly be welcome news.

Zagat finds New York City restaurants adjust course to lean times [NYDN]
We're eating out less [AP]
Zagat survey: More restaurants opened than closed [Crain's]
Survey Says [Zagat.com]