Hungry for a Deal? Taste of Naperville Brings Budget-Friendly Bites to Local Restaurants

Naperville, Illinois, is hosting its very first Taste of Naperville event, giving hungry diners a chance to try food from more than two dozen local restaurants at special low prices. The deals started on Friday, Oct. 9, and run through Oct. 18. Prices begin as low as $5, making it a great option for families who want to save money while eating out. The event was created to help both restaurants and customers during a time when everyday costs like gas have been going up.

Monica Conners, president of the Naperville Development Partnership, said the event was designed with everyday people in mind. She explained that the original plan was to hold a big outdoor festival, similar to Taste of Chicago, but that turned out to be too difficult to organize. A smaller restaurant-based event made more sense, especially for a first-time effort. 'People are looking for more budget-friendly activities,' Conners said.

Conners said this smaller event is still a big win for local businesses and customers alike. Some restaurants that don't usually join Naperville's Restaurant Week are taking part in Taste of Naperville, including ice cream shops. Those shops normally can't offer the set-price meals that Restaurant Week requires, so this event gives them a new way to connect with customers. Conners sees this as a stepping stone toward a bigger festival someday.

One of the participating spots is Tapville Social, a self-pour restaurant where customers pour their own drinks. Malachi Aviles, the general manager, said joining the event was an easy choice since it was his first year with the company. Tapville Social is offering eight different food choices, all starting at $5, including beer cheese fries and a honey-butter chicken slider. Aviles hopes the event brings in many new faces who will enjoy the unique experience.

Bar Louie is hoping the event will grow its customer base by 15 to 20 percent. General Manager Ashley Rambo said business has been steady, but she is excited about the extra boost this event could bring. Bar Louie is offering three $10 deals — bruschetta, cheese quesadillas, and Bavarian pretzels with a garlic butter glaze — plus chicken nachos for $15. 'We love to do things with Naperville,' Rambo said.

Many other well-known Naperville restaurants are also part of the event, from downtown favorites like Empire Burgers + Brew and Bangkok Village to south Naperville spots like Kabab King Grill. Whether you're in the mood for burgers, Thai food, or soft pretzels, there is something for everyone. Diners can find a full list of participating restaurants at dinenaperville.com. It's a great chance to explore the city's food scene without spending a lot of money.