Steamed lobster with uni mousse at Soto

Photograph: David Malosh

Supposedly, a flagging economy means people dine out less. But the r-word hasn’t kept you from frequenting New York’s restaurants and bars. In fact, a record number of you weighed in on this year’s Readers’ Choice honors, revealing that you’re not afraid of fake meat, and yet still love a good Texas barbecue. In addition to your picks, our critics anointed 25 eateries as the year’s most memorable—and one as the winner of TONY’s first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award. As you flip through these pages, you may also notice a familiar face or two. No, those aren’t chefs—they’re rockers, poets and ballerinas who are appearing in town this week. Catch their events and then grab a bite. And if you find that any of these places are too rich for your blood, know that they’re worth the splurge. Besides, you can always save money with our Cheap Eats issue this fall. —Gabriella Gershenson, Eat Out editor

	Readers’ choice
	Critics’ choice
	In memoriam: Take a moment of silence for the restaurants and bars that have gone to that big kitchen in the sky.
	Celebs' choice: Local luminaries dish on where they love to eat.

WATCH THE AWARDS!

Set your DVR: This year’s ceremony, held at Webster Hall and starring Top Chef contestants (among other fancy cooks), will be televised! Check out NYC TV Presents: Time Out New York 2008 Eat Out Awards, May 17 at 9pm on Channel 25.

Download a printable checklist of all the winners