FLIP A COIN FOR FREE FOOD DURING "FLIP NIGHTS," PRESENTED BY THE ROCHESTER DOWNTOWN ALLIANCE AND ROCHESTER CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

5/14/2008

Odds are in favor of fun and inexpensive dining during “Flip Nights,” presented by the Rochester Downtown Alliance and the Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau the third Monday of each month beginning May 19. Anyone who dines at six participating downtown restaurants has a chance of winning free appetizers or entrees with the flip of a coin beginning at 5 p.m. At the completion of each meal, diners will flip twice, first to see if appetizers or entrees are at stake, and the second flip decides if they’re on the house!

“Flip Nights are the perfect opportunities to experience some of Rochester’s best restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost,” said Heidi Mestad, director of communication and community engagement for the Rochester Downtown Alliance. “Downtown has something for every appetite, and we’re excited to put its culinary talents on display.”

To qualify, diners need only order an appetizer and an entree during their meals at the following participating restaurants: Sontes, Sushi Itto, Chester’s, Metro, Lord Essex and Martini’s. No passes, coupons or cards will be required to participate. Restaurant credit will not exceed $15 per diner and participants should calculate server gratuities based on what the meal would have cost before their Flip Night credit is applied.

“The Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited to team up with the Rochester Downtown Alliance to raise awareness of the multitude of downtown dining options,” said Brad Jones, executive director for the RCVB. “The wealth of independent restaurants downtown is a major selling point for visitors and locals alike.”

Restaurants interested in participating in Downtown Dining Flip Nights are encouraged to call 507.424.2866. Further information on the program will be available at www.FlipNight.com later this month.

The Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official marketing agency for the city of Rochester, responsible for destination sales and marketing efforts. The RCVB works to encourage conventions, meetings, sporting events and business travel to Rochester and provides travel-planning support for the patients of Mayo Clinic. The Convention & Visitors Bureau offers comprehensive information about lodging, dining, special events, activities and local attractions. The hospitality and tourism industry is the second largest industry in Rochester, following healthcare. Tourism contributes $250 million to the local economy and provides more than 11,000 full-time equivalent jobs.