Set Table (photo by Kevin Rosseel, courtesy of morguefile.com)

Zagat Survey has released the results of its 2008 America's Top Restaurants survey. Notable dining trends this year can be summarized in three words, "green", "healthy" and "casual."

According to Zagat Survey CEO Tim Zagat, "Prices have remained quite reasonable at the nation's better restaurants, however, diners everywhere are looking for fresh, healthy and sustainably raised options and say that they are willing to pay more for them. Even at fine dining establishments, diners are insisting on casual dress and mien."

The guide, covering 1,416 eateries in 42 major markets, is based on 23 million meals experienced by over 132,000 surveyors. The average surveyor ate out 3.3 times per week and spent an average $33.29 for a typical dinner, a 2.3% increase over last year.

The immensely popular Zagat.com features ratings and reviews for 30,000+ restaurants, hotels, nightclubs and attractions in hundreds of cities worldwide, and helpful tips on meal costs and the latest dining trends.

To view the full press release on which this item was based go to: Zagat Releases 2008 America's Top Restaurants Survey