TIFFIN, Ohio — While the temperatures outside are cold, there are some hot deals for meals in Seneca County this week.
Monday marked the opening of the first-ever Seneca County Restaurant Week, running from Monday, Jan. 15, to Sunday, Jan. 21.
Tiffin leaders have wanted to promote a restaurant week in the city for years. The final idea was to extend the event to any eatery willing to participate in the county.
"It only makes sense, and I think it's perfect timing because otherwise a lot of people might not be coming out. But since we have these specials, I think we'll do alright," said Dave Spridgeon, owner of The Deli Cafe at Frost Village at 155 Frost Parkway.
"During the summer and other months, we find our restaurants are (more) hustling and bustling than at this time of year. And really, there's an opportunity for people to experience something new that they've not been to or come back to their fan favorite that they've been going to for years," said Bryce Riggs, executive director of the Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce.
In total, 21 businesses are participating, offering a variety of menu options at a set price point.
Benchwarmers, at 105 Allen St., is offering a $25 menu with a $5 gift card for a return trip.
Owner Ryan Tittle hopes the restaurant week can get former patrons back, and even bring in new patrons from across the community.
"It's a way for all of us to get together and spread the word throughout the community of different restaurants in the area, and not just going to your typical one, and you try out different things," Tittle said.
For so many smaller businesses, pooling together with other local businesses for this single promotion helps spread the word about all of the culinary variety people can choose from.
"They can see these menus and they can go to the one-stop shop website to do this. We make it easy for people who want to come our way and really support these 21 different eateries," Riggs said.