Starting on July 14th and lasting through July 28th, University City will be celebrating its annual Dining Days event, which features over twenty-five of the area’s most popular restaurants at discount prices. Participating establishments have the option of creating a $15, $25, or $30 three-course fixed menu for the two-week duration. Tri-State Hospitality Network had the opportunity to talk to Sláinte Pub and Grill and Biba Wine Bar and gain insight into their business perspective on the event.
Sláinte Pub and Grill, located on 3000 Market Street, has been involved with Dining Days since the pub opened their doors in 2007 and Lauren Doney of Sláinte, says each year they have seen many rewards and zero business challenges. As far as 2011 is concerned, Doney expects the experience to be similar to previous years. The event not only helps Sláinte gain exposure to new clientele and increase business during the “slow season”, but also it is an opportunity for the restaurant to try possible new menu items on guests and receive valuable feedback. Other reasons to participate include free advertisement in local newspapers and online and a chance to be a part of an exciting promotion with many notable and diverse restaurants. This year, Sláinte has chosen the $15 option, because it resembles their regular menu more closely. The restaurants closest to Sláinte are doing the $25 option, an option Sláinte has chosen in the past; however, they had more success with the $15 one. Overall, Sláinte looks forward to this time of year. As Doney explains, “By offering a great deal, it encourages Philadelphians to travel West of Center City & sample the diverse cuisine this area has to offer.”
Having opened in October 2010, Biba Wine Bar is not only new to Dining Days, but is new to University City. Jonathan Myerow, owner of both Biba and Tria, says they have decided this event is a great way to entice people to try Biba and hopefully, create repeat customers. Biba is located 3131 Walnut Street and is considered an inexpensive restaurant (most items are less than $10); therefore, they chose the $15 price for their guests. “The biggest challenge is that we have no idea of what to expect in terms of business volume,” Myerow explains. With an email blast of 18,000 people, Biba has made a great effort to promote their involvement, but they will have to wait until the end of July to assess their success and decide their plan for next year.
Summer 2011 is the first time UC Dining Days is running for a full two-weeks and the excitement could not be anymore palpable. Restauranters and Philadelphia foodies alike are anticipating high sales and great eats.
