Aberdeen Inspired has unveiled who is on the menu for the next outing of Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks with more than 60 eateries ready to offer up mouthwatering delights during the Foodie Fortnight.
The line-up for the hugely-popular event, running from Monday, September 1, to Sunday, September 14, is online from today, and includes a mix of returning favourites and new venues making their Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks debut.
They take in cuisines from across the world – such as the finest Scottish fayre, the exotic, spicy flavours of Asia and the sun-drenched tastes of the Mediterranean – with lunch and dinner menus at special prices, from £10 to £30.
Adding to the recipe of success for Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks is the return of the secret suppers, where diners don’t know where they will be eating until the day of the event.
Also returning is the popular Foodie Passport, with the chance to win a £500 Aberdeen Gift Card – and for the first time a side order of bonus prizes.
Cup: Staff members Megan Donoghue and Mullen Evans.
Shona Byrne, the project manager who spearheads Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks for Aberdeen Inspired, said excitement was already growing among restaurants taking part and discerning diners looking forward to the Foodie Fortnight.
She said: “As always, restaurants, bars and cafes have been rushing to join in this showcase for the best dining experiences in Aberdeen. They value it as a way to put themselves and what they do in the spotlight, bring in more diners at a quiet time for the sector, while also attracting existing customers and new ones.
“That enthusiasm is shared by diners, too. We are constantly being asked when the next Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks will be and there is always an air of anticipation over which eateries will be taking part and what they will be offering. I’m delighted we can now unveil those taking part – and I expect more to sign up before September 1.
Shona said there will be some new kids on the block for the September edition of Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks, including Sofra (formerly the Nargile restaurant on Skene Street), Ask Italian in Union Square, Luna Chinese Bistro, Glenhouse Restaurant and Wild Ginger, all on Union Street.
Ask Italian: Staff members Gavin Thomas and Orla Jennings.
Jeffrey Rahman, owner of Wild Ginger, said they were “thrilled” to be taking part in Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks for the first time.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our unique approach to Asian cuisine and to welcome new and returning guests to experience something a little different in the heart of the city,” said Jeffrey.
Known for its vibrant flavours and creative take on classic Asian dishes, Wild Ginger is offering a special menu deal that allows diners to enjoy the bold, fresh, and diverse flavours created in its kitchen. Guests can choose an appetiser, main, side, naan bread and a drink for just £25, all served in a stylish and welcoming setting.
Popular favourites returning for the Foodie Fortnight include Al Fresco Italian Restaurant, Cafe Andaluz, Cup, 8848 and The Spiritualist.
Hannah McConnachie, from The Spiritualist, said Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks was always a highlight of their year.
“The Spiritualist takes part in Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks because it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our menu to both new and returning guests, and to be part of a wider celebration of the city’s vibrant food and drink scene,” said Hannah, who is the marketing manager for Signature Group.
“It’s always a great time to welcome people in, create a buzz, and contribute to something that supports the local hospitality industry.”
“Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks not only drives footfall during a typically quieter period but also gives us the chance to get creative and offer something a bit different. We hope to build lasting relationships with new diners and remind our regulars why they love visiting us.
“It’s a brilliant initiative for the sector and the city, bringing people out to enjoy local venues, supporting jobs, and shining a spotlight on what Aberdeen has to offer.”.
In addition to the special menus, Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks also boasts special events during it two-week run.
One of the most popular is the Secret Suppers series, said Shona.
Wild Ginger: Owner Jeffrey Rahman.
“People love that air of mystery about where they will be dining and who will be cooking for them. That’s why our Secret Suppers usually sell out within hours of going on sale,” she said.
“We have three Secret Suppers this year – the first on August 31 to kick off Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks, and two towards the end of the fortnight on Friday, September 12, and the last on Sunday, September 14, to bring it to a close. “It is almost like a starter, main course and dessert of Secret Suppers.
“Of course, I can’t say where they will be held – it wouldn’t be a secret then – but I can say diners lucky enough to snap up a place will be delighted and their tastebuds more than tantalised.”
The Foodie Passport, where diners visit four participating restaurants for the chance to win a £500 Aberdeen Gift Card, that can be spent in more than 300 businesses, also returns for September.
Shona said: “We have decided to add some side orders to the Foodie Passport, with more prizes to be won. Those taking part can scoop a £500 gift card, but also some great bonuses, such as an overnight stay in a hotel or cooking classes.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said the Foodie Fortnight doesn’t just serve up a treat for diners and restaurants but for the entire city centre economy.
“Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks brings people into the city centre, gives them something to linger for and enjoy while spending local to boost businesses, supporting the retail and cultural offering and even encouraging overnight stays in hotels. These are the core aims of everything Aberdeen Inspired does,” he said.
“Footfall figures and feedback from previous Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks show beyond doubt just how much of a boost this celebration of the city’s hospitality sector brings to Aberdeen. We are delighted to deliver it.
“We are now in the countdown to the start of Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks and can’t wait until September 1 when we can ring the dinner gong and say: ‘Come and get it’.”
You can find more information on Aberdeen Inspired’s Aberdeen Restaurant Week here.