Restaurant Week is a culinary celebration that gives diners the chance to enjoy multi-course meals at fixed prices—often at upscale restaurants they might not visit otherwise. Whether you’re planning to take advantage of NYC Restaurant Week or Chicago Restaurant Week, getting the best bang for your buck requires a little strategy.
Here’s how to maximize your Restaurant Week experience and avoid common pitfalls.
- Choose the Right Restaurants (Not Just the Most Popular)
Don’t just default to the trendiest names. Some restaurants may offer limited menus during Restaurant Week that don’t reflect their true specialties. Instead, look for:
- Highly rated restaurants that rarely discount
- Newcomers offering generous tasting menus
- Spots with strong reviews on Yelp or The Infatuation
Pro Tip: Use filters on OpenTable or Resy to sort by location, cuisine, or price to find hidden gems.
- Review the Prix Fixe Menu in Advance
Always check the Restaurant Week menu ahead of time. Some restaurants limit options, exclude signature dishes, or offer smaller portions. Compare the prix fixe price to their regular menu to make sure you’re getting real value.
Look for:
- 3-course meals with choice in each category
- Dishes that are also available on the standard menu
- Dietary accommodations if you have restrictions
- Book Early—and Strategically
Prime time slots during Restaurant Week fill up quickly, especially at popular venues. Make reservations as soon as the list goes live. Try booking early in the week or opt for lunch instead of dinner for better availability and often lower pricing.
Use platforms like:
- Watch for Hidden Costs
Restaurant Week meals usually don’t include drinks, tax, or tip. Alcohol and premium menu upgrades can add up quickly, so factor these into your budget if you’re looking to stay within a certain range.
Tip: Always ask your server which items are included in the prix fixe and if substitutions are allowed.
- Treat It Like a Tasting Opportunity
Restaurant Week is a great excuse to explore cuisines and chefs you might not try otherwise. Use it as a sampling opportunity—then come back on a regular night if it impresses you.
Bonus Tip: If you’re going with a group, everyone ordering the prix fixe menu makes for a smooth and consistent experience.
- Consider Lunch for the Best Value
Many restaurants offer both lunch and dinner prix fixe options, but lunch is often significantly cheaper. If your schedule allows, lunch might give you access to the same space and quality—just with a lower price tag.
- Leave a Thoughtful Review
Restaurant Week brings in a wave of new customers. If you enjoy your experience, leaving a review on platforms like Yelp or Google Maps helps others (and supports the restaurant). Be honest but constructive, especially if something didn’t go as expected.
A Celebration of Food—Done Right
Restaurant Week is more than a discount—it’s a curated dining experience. With a bit of planning and realistic expectations, you can explore high-end dining scenes without overspending, support local restaurants, and discover new favorites along the way.
