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Face it, we can't all see the future. But dining experts are giving it a try by predicting dining trends for 2009.
Chef Enzo Febbraro of 
These days, we're all looking for a little comfort from the economy and many of us turn to food. Luckily, many restaurants are aware of our needs and they're punching up their menus with some classic comfort foods with a little added dash of class and gourmet. From pizza to hot dogs, comfort food is getting a bit of a makeover from some very talented chefs.
For instance, Le Zie in New York City serves up a very special Macaroni & Cheese with Black Truffle dish. During the right season, guests can also order the mac & cheese with white truffle. Nova in San Francisco also makes a delicious mac & cheese with a twist using white & yellow Vermont Cheddar.
Good Dog Bar & Restaurant in Philadelphia also offers a different take on some comfort foods. Their creative appetizers range from fried mozzarella, aged before breaded and cooked, to truffled cheese steak empañadas. Even burgers are getting a little extra attention these days. In Las Vegas, the Kobe Beef FleurBurger "Rossini" is made with Foie Gras and black truffle at Fleur de Lys. But this tasty dish is a little more expensive, at $79, than your average grilled burger.
Zagat is joining forces with sixteen New York City restaurants to bring dinners inspired by 19th century menus to diners in the area. Dinners will be offered by prix fixe menu prices (on par with what the restaurants normally charge). And diners will have the opportunity to sample dishes featuring foods one might rarely have the opportunity to try.
Each restaurant will have a night to cook up and serve their prepared menus. The event kicks off on Monday, January 12 with Café des Artistes with Chef Joseph Paulino. Fifteen other nights will occur through January, February and March. The final event will take place Wednesday, March 25 with Aureole and Chef Charlie Palmer.
Gift Certificates Available for Atlantic City Restaurant Week
Restaurant Week in Atlantic City runs from March 1 through 7, 2009. But gift certificates for the event are available in time for the holidays. Those who want to give the gift of fine dining in Atlantic City can purchase the certificates by phone or online. Fixed priced lunches at $15.09 and fixed priced dinners at $33.09 will be available to patrons during the entire week.
Openings & Closings
Boston: Franklin Cafe opens in Southie.
Chicago: Milwood opens in Wicker Park. YoGo Station opens. Piatto has been closed by health inspectors.
Los Angeles: Apple Restaurant & Lounge opens.