It was just a few weeks ago that we talked affectionately about the importance of restaurant promotions and the popular summertime version of Restaurant Week. In the long list of cities that planned such promotions, a major one was missing: Washington, DC. That problem has now been solved with a Summer Restaurant Week promo set for the last week of August, the 24th-30th. Lunch will be $20.09 and dinner menus, $35.09, both the 3-course prix-fixe style.

Why Washington was so late to decide is always a question open to discussion, but no matter the answer, the solution is: Problem Solved. Shamefully late, but better late than not at all. Judging by the sheer number of restaurants (200) in the metropolitan area participating, its popularity is obvious. Restaurateurs and diners need the financial incentives–these programs work!

Many cities report strong restaurant week promotions with a number of restaurants continuing an additional week or longer. That has become the norm and if anything defines success, the message from diners says, bring on the promos.

Some of my favorite follow-ups occurred in the Charlottesville area where two restaurants, Fossett’s and C&O were booked solidly and each decided to add a week to help diners who wanted to enjoy the benefits. At the Old Mill Room (Boar’s Head Inn), they opted to have a 3-course prix fixe menu for the month of August! Diners talk.

Once again, Open Table is the best way to secure a reservation–NOW. If prior events are a true indication, plan to dine at one of the many restaurants that are often hard to get into and normally pricier than this opportunity presents, but plan ahead, far ahead.

History says these programs work. Everyone can use the boost.

Enjoy.