NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — It looks a little different this year, but New York City Restaurant Week is back with a record number of participants.
More than 570 restaurants are on board for what is being billed as "Restaurant Week To Go" as indoor dining remains banned in the city.
That's nearly 200 more restaurants than ever before.
"It shows you how tough things are and they really need to participate in these different promotions to try to keep their doors open," said Andrew Rigie, executive director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance. "You get great deals at great local restaurants. Know that you're supporting your favorite places and helping the workers. So make sure you tip well as well."
The parameters are streamlined this year, with restaurants offering lunch or dinner at the discounted price of $20.21. That will get you an entree and at least one side.
Rigie tells WCBS 880's Steve Burns that every dollar helps, with the industry in what he calls a "dire situation."
There is still no indoor dining in the five boroughs, which Rigie said makes no sense.
"The rest of restaurants around New York State are opened up at 50% indoor occupancy, yet those are in areas where you have higher infection rates," Rigie said.
Restaurants in some COVID-19 hot spots throughout the state were allowed to once again resume limited indoor dining earlier this month following a court ruling.
Indoor dining in the city was suspended back in December due to rising COVID-19 hospitalization rates, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo has not said when it might be allowed to resume.
Restaurant Week runs through Jan. 31 and eateries have the option to extend the offer for an additional week, February 1-7.
Leading restaurateurs and restaurants participating in this year’s program include: José Andrés (Mercado Little Spain); Joe Bastianich (Babbo, Casa Mono, Eataly, Lupa); Tren’ness Woods-Black (Sylvia’s); Daniel Boulud (Bar Boulud, Epicerie Boulud); Andrew Carmellini (Bar Primi, The Dutch, Lafayette, Leuca, Locanda Verde, Westlight); Leah Cohen (Pig & Khao); Lisa Fernandes (Sweet Chili); Daniel Kruger (Loring Place); Keith McNally (Minetta Tavern, Morandi, Pastis); Danny Meyer (Blue Smoke, Daily Provisions, Gramercy Tavern, Intersect by Lexus, Marta, Tacocina, Union Square Cafe); Marcus Samuelsson (Red Rooster); Ed Schoenfeld (RedFarm); Stephen Starr (El Vez, Pastis, Upland); Michael Stillman (Quality Eats); Jean-Georges Vongerichten (The Fulton, JoJo, Mercer Kitchen, Nougatine, Perry Street); Melba Wilson (Melba’s).
For a list of participating restaurants CLICK HERE.
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