The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which restaurateurs have reported a change in business since the New York City Smoke-Free Air Act took effect. A population-based cross-sectional telephone survey of 434 owners/managers of restaurants located in New York City was conducted by an independent survey firm during November and December 1996. There is no evidence to suggest that the smoke-free law has had a detrimental effect on the city's restaurant business.