Morning MoneyThis is the time of year that some restaurants close for Christmas or cut back their hours, but the economy is changing things this year.
More restaurant owners are staying open on Christmas Eve and New Year's day this year to help make up for sagging sales. We're used to IHOP and Denny's staying open but this year more burger joints and even some upscale restaurants are advertising Christmas specials.
The National Retail Federation says restaurant sales will only grow 2.5% in 2009.
Mitchell's Fish Market just announced for the first time it is opening all of its restaurants on New Year's Day.
Restaurant owners that are changing their holiday hours are doing so to increase sales in this lousy economy and meet demand. Consumers looking to try out a new restaurant may stop in for a bite on New Year's Day or Christmas Eve.
