Andrea Downer, Gleaner Writer

Kingston Restaurant Week (KRW) 2006, the premier calendar food event, was officially launched yesterday at Mac's Chop House in New Kingston.

In its second year, KRW, a joint SSCO and Gleaner initiative, will between November 11 and 18 offer Jamaicans the opportunity to dine affordably at 28 of the city's finest and most celebrated restaurants.

Karin Cooper, corporate affairs and marketing manager, The Gleaner said the company is proud to be once again associated with the event.

"We have always celebrated food at the highest level and this event will further highlight the importance we place on bringing the best to our readers," she said.

In just one year, KRW has grown, and this year, eight new restaurants have come on board.

"Last year, our mantra was 'Eating Out Is In'; this year it is 'Being Out Is In'. Apart from the new restaurants, we have added six nightclubs to the entertainment package," said Stephanie Scott, managing director of SSCO Events.

According to Ms. Scott, the nightclubs offer an exciting bonus. "Patrons who dine at participating restaurants during Kingston Restaurant Week will be entitled to a free specialty drink for the participating nightclubs upon presentation of their receipts," she explained.

Nightclubs

The participating nightclubs are Acropolis Gaming and Entertain-ment Centre, Christopher's Jazz Café, Villagio Gaming Lounge, Asylum, Oxygen Nite Club - The Quad, Voodoo Lounge - The Quad.

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) endorsed the event last year and again has put its mark of approval on what is certain to become a stellar calendar event.

Janice Allen, destination marketing manager at the JTB, said the board will be hosting a group of international journalists who will be in Jamaica during KRW.

"They will visit the Jamaican countryside to see where our local foods are grown and products manufactured and at night, they will enjoy the finished products in Kingston's growing range of restaurants," Ms. Scott explained.

Desmond McKenzie, Mayor of Kingston, echoed sentiments he expressed last year that restaurants in downtown Kingston would also be involved in KRW. He lauded the KRW concept, which he said would highlight and showcase Jamaica's cuisine. According to the mayor, cuisine is one of Jamaica's signature brands.

Participating restaurants are in four categories based on prices that range from $900-$2,300: Delectable, Savory, Tasty and High Rollers.

In addition to The Gleaner, Appleton Estates, bMobile, Ocean Spray, Ammar's, NCB e-Services and Supreme Ventures are among the sponsors for KRW this year.

So go ahead, Eat, Drink and Savour the City! See our Food and Social sections more on KRW.