Mobissimo

While the current economic woes mean that spending may become less for most individuals, it may also spell chances to actually get into places normally 'closed' to mere mortals.  Wanted to get into Goldbar or sample the tasting menu at Momofuku?  Well, since Bear Stearns high powered/salaried individuals will probably have to be a bit more selective about blowing 2k for bottle service or the tasting menu, this may mean the demand will decrease - in short, you might have a better chance to get in to that place you've always wanted to try, but couldn't because 1) no money 2) no space available 3) no connections.  Here's a little more via The New York Times.

In the wake of the implosion at Bear Stearns, some New Yorkers dare to hope that they can afford top restaurants like Fiamma and more important, that prices will fall in the overheated real estate market.

In New York City, it’s also seen as an opportunity.

For many of the city’s middle class, especially those in the creative class, who have felt sidelined as the city seemed to become a high-priced playground for Wall Street bankers, the implosion of the brokerage house Bear Stearns raises a tantalizing possibility: participation in an economy they have been largely shut out of.