Something interesting happened downtown this winter that set it apart from years prior....did you notice? Downtown wasn't as 'quiet' as it usually is during the off-season. There were crowds downtown all winter, and the crowds weren't packed into a select few venues as in prior years, they were scattered throughout downtown on a consistent basis. It's an indicator things will be hoppin' this summer downtown. It's also an indicator that enough restaurants have moved into the downtown corridor to create the critical mass necessary for consistent pedestrian traffic. Culinary motivations to visit downtown have emerged in full force. I'm sure the mild winter had something to do with it too, but it takes more than nice weather to bring people downtown, and keep them coming back. In my ten years of living downtown there have always been a few great restaurants, but now there are stellar dining options in nearly every block along the river corridor. The same can be said for midtown and California Avenue as well.
In a recent post, I introduced you to the Reno Dining District, formed by the Riverwalk Merchant's Association to highlight the new dining options along the river corridor. One of the first events they are rolling out as an official dining district is the Dine the District Food Tour on Saturday, June 9th 2012. Not only will you have an opportunity to enjoy a variety of culinary delights from the best restaurants in the Reno area, you will be supporting continued development of the Riverwalk District. Just like the Wine Walk, redeem tickets by presenting receipt to a participating merchant during the day of the event, you will receive a food tour map as your formal admission to the self-guided tour.
PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS AS OF MAY 3:
Wild River Grille, Java Jungle, West St. Wine Bar, Pie Face Pizza Company, Old Granite Street Eatery, 5 Star Saloon, Campo, Fuego for Tapas & Vino, Bumble Bee Blooms, Imperial Bar & Lounge, Sierra Tap House, Beaujolais Bistro...and more to come!
Events like the Food Walk, and forming a real dining district that transcends hype, are positive steps that solidify downtown as a neighborhood and a place you want to check out. Make sure you follow the dining district on Facebook for more information on this event as June nears.
Was the June 9th walk the only one you will have?