Vancouver, BC: Vancouver's most anticipated restaurant promotion is now open for reservations. Presented by Visa, Tourism Vancouver's Dine Out Vancouver 2008 offers diners a record number of restaurant choices at three great price points for an extended 19 days, from Wednesday, January 16 to Sunday, February 3.
The list of 182 participating restaurants along with their $15, $25 or $35 CAD three-course prix fixe menus (exclusive of taxes, gratuity and alcohol) and their suggested BC VQA wine pairings are now available at tourismvancouver.com. Reservations for all restaurants are now open, with many of them directly bookable through the Tourism Vancouver website, thanks to a partnership with the OpenTable reservations system.
Along with extending the promotion to 19 days, new for this year is the "Best Bite" awards, which allow consumers to give the thumbs up to a delicious dessert or fantastic service. Diners will be invited to select their favourite Dine Out Vancouver experiences and be entered to win exciting prizes, including a grand prize of two tickets to anywhere in North America courtesy of Air Canada.ŧ Votes can either be cast online at tourismvancouver.com or sent by text messaging "DOV" to 247365. Award categories will cover the best courses, service, food and wine pairings, and best overall menu.
"Over the past six years, Dine Out Vancouver has encouraged people to try new restaurants, while helping restaurants attract a whole new clientele," said Rick Antonson, Tourism Vancouver's president and CEO. "The new Best Bite awards will further this effort by recognizing those restaurants that go the extra mile to provide an outstanding culinary experience during the promotion."
"Visa is proud to be involved with Dine Out Vancouver and help showcase the city's vibrant culinary scene to locals and those outside Vancouver," said Marina Chernyak, marketing director, Merchant Partnerships and Market Development, Visa Canada.
The BC Wine Institute, an event sponsor once again, is helping diners enhance their Dine Out Vancouver experience by working with participating restaurants to provide suggested pairings of BC VQA wines for an additional cost. "BC wines are exceptionally food-friendly," said Peggy Athans, executive director of the BC Wine Institute. "Having BC VQA wines featured in 182 restaurants makes it easier for people to sample what is new and taste for themselves how well BC's wine pairs with BC's cuisine."
Those wanting to extend the fun can spend the night at a selection of hotels offering packages that include one night's accommodation (double occupancy), a Dine Out Vancouver dinner for two in the hotel's dining room, plus other amenities from just $129 CAD per night. A sample of participating hotels includes the Hyatt Regency Vancouver, The Listel Hotel, Comfort Inn Downtown, The Sutton Place Hotel and the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Packages can be booked online at tourismvancouver.com/dineout.
Media sponsors of the event include CHMB AM1320, Channel M, Mehfil Magazines, Ming Pao Newspaper, 96.9 JACK FM, RJ 1200, Tourism Vancouver Television, Vancouver Magazine and WHERE Vancouver Magazine.
Tourism Vancouver's focus is on building exceptional customer relationships with meeting planners, travel influencers, travel media and independent tourists. The organization's brand essence is about "exceeding expectations".
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ŧFull Best Bite rules, regulations and prize details available online at tourismvancouver.com.
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