DES MOINES, IA - More than 24,300 people dined at 37 restaurants during the eighth annual Des Moines Restaurant Week, August 14-23. This year saw an 11 percent increase over 2014, where an estimated 22,500 people visited participating restaurants. The ten day event, generated $357,000 in economic impact.

"Greater Des Moines features some of the best local restaurants and chefs in the county," says Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and Des Moines Area Sports Commission. "These numbers show that more and more visitors and locals view our city as a culinary destination."

"It was another strong year for Des Moines Restaurant Week," says Kris Maggard, Manager of Magazines and Community Relations at Business Publications Corporation. "The continued growth is, in part, due to the increase in participating restaurants, up five more than in 2014."

All 37 establishments offered special prix-fixed menus at $25 for two lunches or one dinner. Diners were encouraged to save at least four receipts from their dining experience at the participating restaurants and enter to win a trip for two to Miami. Steve Carlson of Johnston is this year's winner.

The 9th annual Des Moines Restaurant Week will take place August 19-28, 2016.

Restaurant Week is organized by dsm Magazine and the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. This year's sponsors included Iowa Pork Producers Association, Pearl Vodka and River Walk Coffee. Public comments and feedback on Restaurant Week may be sent to marketing@desmoinescvb.com.

 

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the parent organization of the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to market the region as a visitor destination increasing economic growth and enhancing the visitor experience. The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and Des Moines Area Sports Commission represent the following municipalities: Altoona, Ankeny, Bondurant, Clive, Des Moines, Grimes, Indianola, Johnston, Perry, Pleasant Hill, Polk City, Polk County, Urbandale, West Des Moines and Windsor Heights