Discounted Dining

We all want to eat out at our favorite restaurants and bistros. The problem is we can;t due to rising food prices and a shrinking paycheck a good night out seems like a luxury . However there is a way out of it. Restaurant coupons.. They let us have one night of delicious food in a great atmosphere at lower prices. They may be a salvation to us ordinary diners . They're a pain and a drain to restaurant owners. This debate was the main article in today's New York Times Dining section. The article written by Dining regular Glenn Collins told of the restaurateurs' side. Most owners do not like the idea of discount dining. They don;t bring in the large amount of customers and some just feel the concept compromises their business' integrity.Some feel that regulars will come because they love the food and the atmosphere , no matter what the cost. They also feel that the ones who are paying full price for their meals are subsidising the ones with the coupons. This is the philosophy of famed Manhattan restaurateur Marc Murphy who owns the Landmarc. Are coupons that bad? No, Some owners feel they bring in more business. New customers come in after printing out coupons from sties like Groupon or VIllageVines. The owner of Manhattan's Piccolo Cafes, Michele Casadei Massari feel that they bring in customers who then come back a second times - sans any discounts. The practice doubles business and brings an otherwise unheard of eatery into the public eye. Also diners bring come with friends and family , thus enlarging the clientele and creating a new wave of loyal eaters. It really is a win situation. Are coupons really that bad? If they bring in business during these hard times, then restaurant owners should go for them. Coupons and discounted dining help fill up any restaurant and create more jobs for the community. Coupons also let those who are longing for a break take one at a great restaurant with top notch food. There's nothing wrong with that.