Restaurant Week GR: November 5-13, 2021

The Recipe for 2021

After many community conversations and navigating the industry landscape this spring and summer, Experience Grand Rapids made the decision to postpone Restaurant Week GR from the usual August time frame until November. We know that your industry is still facing many challenges, and have designed RWGR to be affordable and easy to participate in for 2021. Restaurants located in Kent County are eligible to join us for this promotion. 

RWGR Goes Digital

As in 2020, Restaurant Week diners will download a digital pass to their smartphones through a digital link (not an app). They’ll use the pass to check in at participating restaurants, similar to how Foursquare and Untappd work. Diners will receive a digital return visit coupon at every restaurant they check in to. This will be a one time use coupon that expires 12/31/2021.  Experience Grand Rapids will also send them a special foodie-themed gift for checking in to three different restaurants from November 5-13, 2021. 

Restaurant Commitment (Sign Up by September 26)

Here's what you need to do in order to participate:

1. Review this entire web page first
    
2. Officially sign up here by September 26 or sooner. Here is what you will need to know before you can register:
   • Required: Provide a “bounce-back” offer – something to entice guests to return to your restaurant after RWGR. Examples include BOGO, a 10% off, free dessert, a free appetizer, it’s up to you. This will be a one time redemption offer expiring 12/30/2021. This is required to participate
      
3. Train serving staff about RWGR. Your staff will need to know the 4-digit pin number you created during the signup process. Guests will ask for this pin to allow them to check in while they're at your restaurant. We will receive analytics regarding number of check-ins at the end of Restaurant Week GR that can be shared with participants upon request.

Partnership Requirements and Fees 

We’re waiving the usual fee for participation (typically $100). We hope this will motivate even more restaurants to join in the festivities. However, we do ask that restaurants are paid partnership of Experience Grand Rapids. Our partnership program offers a variety of year-round benefits and is $250 annually. You can check out the benefits of partnership and submit payment. 

No Menu Requirements

In past years, restaurants were tasked to create special prix-fixe RWGR menus at specific points. We’re waiving that requirement this year to ensure that it's easy for your to participate in Restaurant Week GR.

Additional Marketing Opportunity (Optional)

In the past, a gift card donation has been a requirement to participate in Restaurant Week GR. We are making this optional this year. If you would like additional marketing exposure and are able to do so, please mail a gift card between $25-$50. We will use these gift cards for social media giveaways, as well as part of our public relations strategy with local media and influencers. They will be put to good use! Gift cards should be mailed to the address below by October 15.

Experience Grand Rapids
Attn: RWGR
171 Monroe Ave NW Suite 545
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

We're Here to Help!

We recognize that the local culinary scene is critical to attracting tourists and business travelers. We want to help local restaurants thrive – and mobilizing community support through Restaurant Week GR is one way we’re doing it!

Thank You Sponsors! 

Gordon Food Service (Major Sponsor)

MI Restaurant and Lodging Association (Supporting Sponsor)

Hobart GR (Supporting Sponsor) 

 

Questions? Contact our team at RWGR@ExperienceGR.com.