Restaurants nationwide have been hit hard by the nation's failing economy. However, consumers are holding onto the small luxury of dining out--as many find comfort when gathered around a meal with family and friends. With this in mind, many restaurateurs are offering some creative and enticing incentives to keep tables full in today’s economy.

In an effort to help these eateries co-exist with their cost-conscious clientele, Zagat Survey is releasing its new Dining Deals guides: America's Best, Chicago, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Many of the restaurants in the new guide offer dinner options at $30 or less and lunches for $20. The guides' ratings and reviews are based on the collective opinions of local diners.