I write about affordable wine and food all the time. And it seems like more economy-focused friends and readers are taking an interest than ever before.

We are feeling the impact of this economic downturn hard and heavy, for the first time in many years in San Francisco. I always used to visit our town and say "funny you don't notice the country is in a recession." Well, we are hooked into it big time now.

I was in one of our "top" restaurants on a Monday and it was empty. I hope for them they aren't as light on reservations the rest of the week. I went in one of my most beloved wine bars in a great and emerging 'hood,  with great food, on a Saturday and got a table. This actually worries me more. I live next door to one of our city's most famous restaurants, where I have never been because the menu is too complicated and expensive, I am dying for them to do small plates or BYOB promotion but I don't know that they ever will.

I think many of the restaurants and wine bars that are not responding to the current economic situation will close. However many others are adapting, which is great to see. Restaurant Michael Mina has started offering a $55 pre- and post-theater (in the lounge) fixe for $55. The restaurant is also offering a "hidden wine gems" special during the week.

These upscale restaurants need to get with it or they are going to suffer in these times without deep pockets. Leaner economic times also represent a unique opportunity for consumers to let the restaurant business know what they want and need in good times and bad.

Cheers to the (potential) positive aspects of the economy.

Liza the Wine Chick