Kurumazushi and the down economy in NYC

I have a hangover. This is not a metaphor for the credit related hangover that looms over world, but a real world hangover that is here because last night there were martinis and oysters followed by sushi and sake. oh, and there was also a lovely glass of Brunello at some random late night restaurant in SoHo. So, I'm having a hangover and pondering the economic meltdown while reading the Sunday New York Times in a hotel room with bagels, lox and cream cheese. (courtesy of one of the better old world deli's near SoHo, Russ and Daughters.) I am not looking for sympathy here. Nope. But a thought occurred to me and I'm wondering if others are starting to see these financial crisis ripple effects as well. Expensive dinners and business diners. Has there been a significant decline in business dinners, power lunches and the like? In a sample set of one? Granted not a scientific study... I would venture to say that the answer is "Yes." Last night we nailed a last minute 8pm reservation at Kurumazushi in New York. For the record and to the uninitiated, this is generally as likely as a winning pick in a state lottery. At first only the two of us at the bar. Dianthe and I chatting with Uezu-san and ordering the usual 'omakase,' chef's choice. Soon another diner and then a couple more. Well, here's what we had. A sweet Columbian woman and here husband from New Jersey celebrating their third wedding anniversary. ("We came into the city for the weekend and left our three year old at home with my mom.") A dude from Australia. Dianthe tells me that this man is "a hunk." Two seemingly drunk and continually laughing Jewish dudes, one of whom apparently "owns a catering company in the city." So? where are the Japanese business men? Where are the bankers? This place was once the play land of bankers and Japanese businessmen. I really want to ask Uezu-san, but steer away from the topic. It is a noticeable difference. I see people out for dinner and a good early evening sake buzz. There are no Blackberrys. There are no suits. Sweet. I think I like this. Why? Not a solo experience. Nope. After some sake and sushi? Soon we are *all* talking and this is about to become a party. (thus my hangover.)