Residents and visitors alike have one more reason to look forward to September in Fort Lee, Bergen County. The BDA of Fort Lee launches their 4th annual Restaurant Week on Monday, September 23. For 2019, the special event includes celebrity chef guests David Burke, Josh Capon, Dale Talde, Antonio Dinis, and Ben Pollinger.
In addition, all five chefs are joining together for a one-night-only kickoff event on Tuesday, September 24 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
This special experience – you must purchase a ticket – takes place at the Ventanas restaurant at The Modern. All proceeds will benefit the Fort Lee Public Schools Meal Program.
“What we wanted to do is be able to give the community the ability to sit down with celebrity chefs and not only try the food, but get to have a conversation,” says Stuart Z Koperweis, executive director of Fort Lee Business District Alliance. “They get to meet their neighbors and intermingle with friends in the area. It’s a great way to share the wealth in terms of food and celebrities.”
A limited quantity of tickets are available until they sell out. Admission includes a private reception, food tasting, Q&A with celebrity chefs, one complimentary drink ticket and a cash bar.
Discounts at Local Restaurants
In addition to the kickoff event, nearly 50 eateries are participating in Fort Lee Restaurant Week; which runs from Monday, September 23 through Sunday, September 29. The promotional event lets patrons sample flavors from different cultures at discount prices. Of course, each restaurant will have their own select menu or specials.
“We’re recognizing that we have a variety of culinary delights in town; and sharing that with those in town and in the region,” says Koperweis. “We are looking to bring people into Fort Lee and enjoy the food and retail shops. They can try a variety of menus and go back to these places. We want people to walk the area and enjoy themselves.”
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Participating restaurants offering deals and discounts include 16 Handles, City Perch, and Dumpling Den. Click here for the full list of deals.
Meanwhile, this event is only one of many promos that Fort Lee’s Town Center hosts. Other annual events include “Summer Happy Hour” as well as Chic Week in May.
Following Fort Lee Restaurant Week, the next event is their Fall-O-Ween Spectacular on Saturday, October 26. During this event, which lasts from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, the town closes part of Main Street. At this time, kids can trick-or-treat at local shops, or visit face painters, jugglers, balloon artists, and more.
“These events are doing great for businesses,” says Koperweis. “The exposure is well-received and property owners are excited.”
Towards the end of the year, the BDA organizes “Santa Saturday” on December 7, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. This event allows families to take photos with Santa at the town’s senior center.
To learn more about upcoming Fort Lee BDA events, click here to visit the website or send them an email.
All Images: Provided by Business District Alliance of Fort Lee
