If the James Beard Foundation Awards are the Food Oscars, the Food Olympics may well be Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week, which takes place twice a year. This winter’s installment runs from January 19 through 25.
But that’s not the only restaurant week to take advantage of this winter. Other area restaurants weeks are taking place in Alexandria, Falls Church, Oakton, and Fredericksburg. And Fairfax City’s iteration is February 28 through March 8.
Insider Advice
My experience with restaurants weeks isn’t limited to that of a consumer. In 2010, I was part of the small group at Seven Days newspaper to launch Vermont Restaurant Week. The annual, statewide foodie celebration continued until 2020.
Part of my role was to counsel restaurateurs about how to make the most compelling menus for the event. So, you could say I know a thing or two. Here’s my advice on how to get the most for your money.
Get Out for Lunch
Want to try that new place that’s been calling to you, but don’t have the budget for a $65 dinner? You can still get a prix-fixe at lunch or brunch. MWRW’s lunches cost between $25 and $35, potentially half what you would pay at dinner, but most still include three courses.
Look for Discounts
There are plenty of restaurants at which that $65 dinner is actually a steal. For example, look to restaurants that already have tasting menus. Often, those meals top out at well over $100 per person. Though the restaurant week versions are abbreviated, it’s still a fantastic way to have a taste of esteemed chefs’ wares without breaking the bank.
Uncover the Novelties
When I worked on Vermont Restaurant Week, I recommended to chefs that they serve dishes not on their regular menus. It’s worth checking out the bills of fare that your favorites are offering to see if they’re doing something new and exciting. For example, I’m planning to head to one of my go-tos, Celebration by Rupa Vira, for coconut risotto with charred shrimp and a chocolate samosa à la mode.
Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Another piece of advice that I’ll be taking myself is to get out of town. Most of my dining out happens in NoVA, so I’ll be making reservations in DC and Maryland. But this doesn’t just apply to location. Use this as an opportunity to try a new-to-you cuisine or an unfamiliar dining concept, too.
Feature image, mavoimages/stock/adobe.com
