Berlin Restaurant Week now in full swing, highlights local eateries

BERLIN, Md.- “We said that we can’t just make this any type of business, we have to make this a business that Berlin can really rally around,” Forgotten 50 Distilling Co-Owner Eric Fiori said.

Forgotten 50 Distilling is a small batch distillery that’s serving up a fine dining experience. They’re just one of more than 15 restaurants apart of this year’s Berlin Restaurant Week.  “We put some scallops on the menu and that’s not on our traditional menu. We did a filet entree that’s also not on our menu. So, it allows our executive chef to spread his wings and create so many culinary experiences,” Fiori said.

Economic & Community Development Director Ivy Wells said the event is a way to keep foot traffic steady in town during the shoulder season. “Usually around this time of year on the Eastern Shore it is a little slow. We thought of this idea several years ago to help boost the economy a little bit and it’s really taken off,” Wells said.

Organizers told us when you dine at one of those restaurants, you’re not only supporting that business but the community with keeping your dollar local. “A lot of the restaurants report after each restaurant week on how well they did, how they got to reconnect with the community, and how locals came out,” Wells said.

Fiori said the week has also been an opportunity for them to turn those first-time customers into regulars. “This is obviously our first one and we’ve had some of the busiest nights we’ve had so far. Kudos to everyone that organized this. Mission accomplished,” he said.

Forgotten 50 recently launched their own line of Gin and Vodka which can now be purchased throughout Worcester and Wicomico counties.

Customers who eat at three participating restaurants will get a chance at winning $400 in restaurant gifts cards and $100 cash.

Berlin Restaurant Week wraps up this Thursday, January 18th.