A New Kind of Dining in Westerly

Westerly and Pawcatuck – our very own interstate wonder twins – bring us Dine out Downtown through May 3. The week of deals is brought to you by the Downtown Business Association, representing one downtown, regardless of which side of the state line its members fall on. With the Westerly-Pawcatuck Chamber of Commerce putting on a more traditional three-course prix-fix restaurant week at a different time in the year, Dine out Downtown instead fills a more inclusive niche.

As president of the Downtown Business Association, The Malted Barley’s owner Colin Bennett explains that restaurants that aren’t set up for the typical prix-fixe can participate as well. This means other attractive deals, including for those on a tighter budget. So while places like The Brazen Hen, 84 Tavern on Canal, The Twisted Vine and others are putting together three-course menus at varying price points, others like Mia’s Café are doing a meal for two at $30. It’s not just restaurants that are participating either. Bogue’s Alley Market & Deli, Maize n Manna, Whole Foods and Mel’s Downtown Creamery will also be offering deals.

This is the second year for the Dine out Downtown event, but Colin says that he and vice president Chris Champagne, owner of 84 Tavern, are eager to make it an annual spring tradition. It’s perhaps more needed than ever this year, with a winter that Colin charitably called “interesting” as far as business is concerned. Most everywhere was closed for at least three days, and while The Brazen Hen did fine, others could use “a revival of seasons” after many elected to stay at home and vent vague anger at the nearest window.

Colin hopes to build on the success of last year, a success that took the form of both “sweet wonderful regulars” and fresh faces, with ads taken out in New London’s The Day to drive an “influx of business” for the week. Continuing the theme of inclusivity, the Downtown Business Association is also looking to persuade migrating munchers to spend in downtown stores, by giving Dine out Downtown participants coupons for local retailers. Restaurants are still announcing their deals at time of writing, so go online for the latest list of participants and deals.