The Rexburg Area Chamber of Commerce is once again turning dining out into a friendly competition as its fourth annual Restaurant Rush invites residents to take part in a two-week bingo card challenge at participating restaurants.
Participants can pick up a Restaurant Rush bingo card at the Chamber of Commerce office or at any of the 21 participating restaurants. By dining at local establishments and marking off squares, players can complete rows or fill their entire card. Completed cards must be turned in by March 12, either in person or through social media, to be entered into a gift basket drawing featuring multiple restaurant gift cards and prizes, including headphones and a travel pickleball set.
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Lydia Fielding, with the Chamber, says she’s excited to see how the event positively impacts the community.
“After Christmas, the market is actually really slow,” Fielding said. “So, we purposely do the Rexburg Restaurant Rush at this time of year to help kind of boost that and spur that a little bit more to get this up to support the local restaurants.”
In addition to offering 20% discounts and special activities, participating restaurants have extra motivation this year. The restaurant that brings in the most customers during the event will receive a $500 cash bonus from the Chamber. Fielding believes this added competition has made this year’s deals better than ever.
Participating businesses range from Rexburg staples like June’s Place and Righteous Slice to newer additions such as Iceberg Drive Inn and El Pollo Loco Jr., which is upgrading from a food truck to a dine-in restaurant.
“Come one, come all, it's free to participate. The purpose of this is to just have fun, create that unity, try new places, go grab a double date. Guys, this is your chance. Your opportunity. Girls, go ask that guy out you've been meaning to. This is a great FHE activity, and just a wonderful opportunity to have a little bit of adventure with your tongue,” Fielding said. “And knowing that you are also supporting your community at a time where things are a little slower.”
The Rexburg Restaurant Rush began Feb. 15 and runs through Feb. 28. For more information, visit the Rexburg Area Chamber of Commerce website or follow the organization on Instagramand Facebook.