Question: Maybe it's unpatriotic, but I'm cutting back my spending. I still like to eat out at nice places though. Any suggestions for good deals?

        Answer: Here are a few that I've heard about in the past few months:

        • The Palm Court in the Netherland Plaza Hotel, downtown, is having a prime rib fest through the end of November. It's 12 ounces of prime rib, potato, vegetable and salad for $14.95. 564-6465.

        • The Chart House in Newport has been celebrating its 40th anniversary with a three-course dinner for $19.61. It includes clam chowder or salad, fresh fish prepared baked, blackened or grilled, and cheesecake. The special dinner will be offered through the end of the year. (859) 261-0300.

        • Uncle Yip's Fusion cuisine in Fairfield is enticing new customers by offering a special of a whole lobster, poached salmon and a seafood spring roll for $12.95. 942-6512

        • Washington Platform, downtown, has clambakes from time to time on Friday nights during winter. It includes all-you-can-eat clams, mussels, shrimp, crawfish, corn and potatoes for $18.95. Call 421-0110 for clambake dates.

        • Maisonette, also downtown, has a long-standing deal called Fashionably L'Eight that's available only on Thursday after 8 p.m. It's a four-course dinner for $60 per person — a great deal considering that includes wine, tax, tip and valet parking. 721-2260.

       Send questions or comments to dining critic Polly Campbell by fax: 768-8330; e-mail: pcampbell@enquirer.com.
       

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