INDIANAPOLIS — Area restaurants are hoping for a boost with the start of Devour Winterfest Sunday.
More than 100 restaurants are taking part this year, all offering specially-priced, three-course meals.
That includes not just Indianapolis but restaurants in Fishers, Brownsburg, Carmel and other surrounding communities.
Devour began as a way to boost business during the post-holiday season, when things slow down.
But this year with the pandemic and restaurants at reduced capacity, Allen Long, general manager of the downtown Harry and Izzy's, said Devour is especially important.
"It's been a tough year, but we're all doing our part to be successful," Long said. "I think that's the first and foremost thing, keep grinding, keep doing what we do, offer a great product, and it's going to turn around."
Kristina Mazza, who owns Hoagies and Hops on the city's north side, said Devour has been great way to give regular customers a deal while introducing new customers to her "authentic Philly cheese steaks, because that's what I'm known for."
"I'm looking forward to the special just kind of bringing people back out," Mazza said.
This year, there are more options, with many restaurants are offering Devour specials at lunch and dinner.
The Gallery Pastry Shop in Broad Ripple is one place offering brunch. It's the restaurant's first time participating.
General Manager Ariel Hendrickson said they've had great support from their regular customers over the last year during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I think Devour brings out more people that may not know about us, and that's why Devour is so cool. I'm excited to participate this year," Hendrickson said.
Given the pandemic, all specials are available for both dine-in and carryout.
Devour Winterfest runs through Saturday, Feb. 6.
For a full list of the restaurants participating and the specials that each is offering, click here.