The "Pigatorium" Lives!

When all else fails to get customers in the door, there's always gluttony:

While such deals are most pronounced and heavily marketed in the troubled casual-dining sector, even quick-service and family-dining operators now are touting "endless," "bottomless" and "never-ending" food portions.

Practitioners insist that the all-you-want marketing messages are not signs of desperation and that unlimited servings of key comestibles can be cost-effective, despite giveaway gaffes that previously hurt prominent restaurant brands. Regardless, industry analysts say such appeals to gluttony may be necessary in the current economic climate.

It's a vicious cycle- blow out portions to bring 'em in, cut corners to get get your food cost percentage down, people feel ripped off (but really full) and don't come back. Not a healthy sign for the industry.