As the economy tanks, local bars and restaurants, even in notoriously “foodie” Seattle, are feeling the pinch. Bars are adding food, and restaurants are offering specials, coupons, prix fixe, et cetera. Every day I get another announcement of some promotion or other, so in the spirit of giving, I’m sharing with you.

Chow Foods, the local casual dining juggernaut, is offering Blue Plate Specials, Sunday through Thursday, at the 5-Spot, Atlas Foods, Endolyne Joe’s, and the Hi-Life. Each dinner is priced to match the closing of the Dow, i.e. if the Dow closes at 8650, your dinner is $8.65. That’s an excellent deal. Only a limited number of specials will be prepared, though, so get there early to take advantage of the offer. In addition, Coastal Kitchen is offering favorite items from past Festival menus for $9.50, a different dish each day.

Starting in March, Sonya’s Skyy Lounge (1919 1st Ave.) will, at long last, again be serving food. Glen has hired chefs Tim Ormonde and Jordan Melnikoff to take over the kitchen, and the two have put together a menu that pays homage to Sonya’s favorites, while incorporating some tasty new items. In addition to Sonya’s venerated Man Du (Korean pot stickers, $8), the menu includes Flat Iron Steak Frites ($16), a selection of “Late Breakfast” items ($9-$11), and… pie! PIE! 206-441-7996

A little farther south, Chez Shea (94 Pike Street) has opened the Lounge for lunch, offering a mix of items that includes versions off the dinner menu, as well as lunch only entrees. Slightly cheaper than their dinner menu, Chez Lounge is a solid way to hook diners on the lovely food without breaking the bank. Not to mention, a lunch customer is a possible dinner conversion!

30 Seattle restaurants are participating in Dine Around Seattle (formerly 25 for $25), offering prix fixe dinners, Sunday through Thursday, for $30 dollars. Some of the participating restaurants are also offering $15 prix fixe lunches! Dine Around Seattle only lasts until March 31st. Restaurants include Nishino, Steelhead Diner, Ray’s, Dahlia Lounge, Andaluca… check out the website for full details.