Concierges getting humbler requests

While concierges are still busy during the recession, many say they are getting humbler requests from residents looking to save money. Abigail Michaels Concierge, which serves about 90 buildings in the city, said the number of requests for catering at home has increased by 20 percent. Residents are also asking for reservations at restaurants that are “simple,” which Michael Fazio, co-founder of Abigail Michaels, said is code for, “We don’t necessarily want to drop $200 a person” on a meal. Fazio said that 50 percent, up recently from 30 percent, of his residents are paying more attention to his e-mails about discount Broadway shows. Luxury Attache, which provides concierge services at 15 buildings, said residents are shortening and spending less money on vacations. A weekend trip to the Caribbean may be replaced with a few nights in Connecticut, and residents are opting to go to Atlantic City instead of Las Vegas.