Now that nobody is expensing the noon meal, innovative lunch menus are the new happy hour, as evidenced by Seastar’s latest promotion. You pay $14 and pick two items off of a 12 item lunch menu (Kobe beef sliders, crab cakes, sushi rolls, salads, soups, etc.), and Chef John Howie says he can get you in and out in 45 minutes. The restaurant will even validate your parking in the 2200 Westlake garage (valet parking is $7).

Hmm, wonder what they can work out any deals for us at the neighboring Vida Spa? We’ve got some recession-induced cricks in our necks that just won’t quit.