Memphis’ annual Downtown Dining Week is almost upon us (November 17th through 23rd), and as a recent college graduate who is new to the Memphis dining scene, I am looking forward to trying out some of the downtown establishments normally out of my price range. Participating restaurants are offering three-course dinners or two dinners for $20.13. Some restaurants have $10.13 lunch specials, too.
Based on the menus posted on www.downtowndiningweek.com, here is my list of the five best dinner deals (based solely on price) at DTDW.
1) Chez Philippe
A three-course dinner at The Peabody’s Chez Philippe restaurant normally costs upward of $70, so the $20.13 DTDW price point is a steal. While your menu options are more limited, — choose between two entrées: the entrecôte (steak) or seafood and kabocha squash croquettes — it is a great way to taste one of downtown Memphis’ fancier establishments.
2) Capriccio Grill
Another Peabody restaurant, Capriccio Grill Italian Steakhouse serves up premium steaks, seafood, pizzas, and more. Diners regularly pay $30 to $40+ for Capriccio’s steak and seafood fare, but during DTDW you can try a grilled flank steak or seared mahi-mahi alongside an appetizer and dessert for just an Andrew Jackson and some change. (Plus tip, of course.)
3) Bleu Restaurant & Lounge
Bleu’s DTDW menu features three entrées not offered on their regular menu: steak au poivre, downtown mahi-mahi, and downtown chicken. The three-course dinner options reflect savings of $20+, based on average dinner prices.
4) Itta Bena
DTDW guests at Itta Bena can choose among three main dishes not offered on the regular menu: flat iron steak, chicken Marsala, or pan-fried catfish. Itta Bena’s dinner entrées alone cost around $25 on average.
5) The Rendezvous
The Rendezvous’ DTDW deal is nice in that it forces you to enjoy dinner with a friend. Get two beef brisket dinners with two Ghost River or Wiseacre drafts, for just two bucks more than you would normally pay for one brisket and beer combo.
Even if a restaurant’s Downtown Dining Menu does not reflect significant discounts, you should still explore its menu. Many chefs have created special dishes that are not usually offered at their restaurants. Visit www.downtowndiningweek.com to browse the menus of the 35+ restaurants participating in downtown dining week. Advance reservations are strongly suggested.
