CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago Restaurant Week officially kicks off Friday for the 18th year.
“Discovering Chicago’s fantastic dining spots and tasting new cuisines you’ve never experienced before is a unique and exciting opportunity,” explained Isaac Reichman, from Choose Chicago.
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Choose Chicago hosts this culinary expedition through nearly three dozen of the city’s neighborhoods.
Reichman said 500 restaurants are participating this year: the most on record.
“Whether you’re a local Chicago resident or a visitor, this is your chance to show support for your favorite restaurants and express appreciation for our outstanding culinary community,” added Reichman.
Dawn in Hyde Park is giving a taste of what its all-day breakfast is all about.
“I think restaurant week is probably the most authentic representation of the city,” Dawn owner Racquel Fields said.
Dawn is a “brunch all day” spot nestled on the corner of 56th Street and Cornell Avenue in Hyde Park.
“The event aims to recreate the feeling of gathering with family members or close siblings around your grandmother’s dining table, with a touch of northern charm,” Fields described.
She said her restaurant opened during restaurant week just last year, providing unparalleled exposure during Dawn’s very first days.
“I think it did wonders. We opened up in January, and for any restaurant you know that’s a slow season, and just to have the opportunity to get that wide exposure all across the city and beyond was amazing,” Fields said.
More than 150 restaurants participating this year are women- or minority-owned spots.
Restaurant week runs until Feb. 9.
Visit www.choosechicago.com/chicago-restaurant-week for more information.
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