Maybe it's because people can't afford to eat out as much these days; maybe it's because landlords are continuing to jack up the rents. Whatever the reason, the SoHo restaurant district continues to count casualties. Frank Sun's Tribute and Bricolage 62 are gone. Frog Face Fish is being torn apart for something new. Cafe Annam was short-lived. Now Zest is about to call it quits, too. Sending out a notice on Tuesday to its regular clientele, the bistro admitted that after almost three years they're not so zesty and will close at the end of the month. 'We have decided to put away the stock pots, the chefs' knives and repertoire of great recipes we've cooked for you, our loyal friends,' the note reads. It didn't give a reason for shutting down, but obviously the costs are outweighing the returns. To go out in style, Zest, at 57 Wyndham Street, is offering a 20 per cent discount off dinner bills for the rest of this month. To wish them a fond farewell, call 2526 7993.