Match Points

The big article in yesterday's Times had to do with restaurant giveways, primarily matches. They seem a strange anachronism given today's no smoking bans in eateries. Yet match books giveaways survive, much to the deleight of collectors and the occasional smoker.

The article , written by Katrina Heron, tell about some famous restuarants and their giveaways. New York 's famed Russian tea Room is known for their match book giveraways. Why? Because the covers are considered artwork and for that, valued, highly. The restaurant also hands out special Christmas themed matchboxes during th e holidays. These are bigger and have a picture of a fancy wreath on the cover. Some other known NY restaurants ' giveaways are also pictured. I love La Grenouille which features a reclining crowned frog on a lily pad.The Almond bar has a neat looking one that has it;s lettering against a picture of a neon circle.

Even if you don;t smoke, take th e matches your restaurant offers to you. The covers are great keepsakes (there are even clubs devoted to this ) and the matches do come in handy. I use them to light the burners when the stove is being troublesome or to light candles. They're useful in a black out as well. I do prefer the chocolate mints that most places give with your check however. yet the matches are practical along with the covers being pretty and collectible.

Matches are still a big giveaway even in this smoke free age. Take any that your restaurants give you. They do serve a purpose and they're a nice memento to keep.