As Restrictions Loosen, Burlington County Restaurant Week Returns

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — On the same day Gov. Phil Murphy announced the easing of restrictions on wearing masks indoors, Burlington County officials announced the return of Restaurant Week.

This year’s event, which is sponsored by the county and State Senators Troy Singleton and Dawn Marie Addiego, will kick off on the first day of summer, officials announced on Monday. It will run from June 21-27.

The announcement was made at Braddock’s Tavern in Medford on Monday. Braddock’s history dates back over 100 years, making it one of Burlington County’s oldest operating restaurants.

About an hour after that announcement, Murphy announced that vaccinated people can stop wearing masks in certain indoor areas starting Friday. Read more here: NJ To Lift COVID Indoor Mask Order, With Some Exceptions

“Our county first started Restaurant Week in 2019 because we know how important these businesses are to our local economies and our neighborhoods, but it’s taken on an even greater importance this year due to the impacts from the pandemic,” Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson said. “Bringing back Restaurant Week this summer is one way we can try to showcase these special places and their employees. By patronizing them, our residents are supporting their own neighbors, friends and communities, so we’re excited to partner with Senator Singleton and Senator Addiego to make this year’s Restaurant Week our most successful ever.”

Braddock’s Tavern and several other restaurants have already expressed their interest in participating in the event, officials said.

The commissioners and senators are also encouraging more to sign-up before the June 21 kickoff.

“It shows you how things have changed in the last 14 months … and how much more government is looking to help us and help businesses get open,” Braddock’s Managing Partner and COO Bob Wagner said.

As of Thursday, the outlook for the coronavirus in Burlington County is “moderate,” according to the state Department of Health’s "COVID-19 Activity Level Report," which is issued weekly. Read more here: NJ Report Shows ‘Moderate’ COVID Activity In At Least 8 Counties

During Restaurant Week, participating restaurants will be highlighted by the Commissioners and senators on the County website and on social media. Several food establishments will have special offers and discounts throughout the week. Some will offer fixed price meals and discounts. Others may feature special menu items.

The restaurants will also receive table cards and posters highlighting the event.

The goal is to promote and support county restaurants and their employees and showcase their importance to Burlington County’s communities.

More than 10,000 people are believed to be employed in restaurants in the county and the businesses also provide a crucial draw for local downtowns and business districts, officials said.

There is no fee or cost to participate. Interested restaurants can sign up by completing an online form seeking basic information and any specials or discounts they plan to offer during the week. Restaurants don’t need to have specials or deals to participate. The form is available here.

“Burlington County can't come back from this crisis without our restaurants, and our restaurants can't come back without us,” said Rep. Andy Kim (D-Burlington/Ocean), who was also at the kickoff event. “I'm thrilled to see Restaurant Week coming back in Burlington County and hope everyone takes time to visit a local restaurant to show your support. Together, we can make sure we come back and move forward stronger than ever."

“Restaurants are more than just small businesses,” Addiego said. “They are places where friends, families and community members come together. We’ve been apart for so long, now with growing numbers of people vaccinated, it is the perfect time for us all to enjoy a relaxing night out with great food and great atmosphere, and Burlington County has plenty of places to choose from.”

Singleton, who advocated for New Jersey restaurants last year during the statewide shutdown, said he hoped Restaurant Week would help encourage friends and families to spend a night out in support of their favorite local dining spots.

“We know COVID-19 has been a challenge for all of us, but it’s been especially difficult on many restaurants, which have had to navigate shutdowns and social-distancing restrictions for well over a year now. Many are still fighting for their survival, and some have made large investments to create comfortable and safe indoor and outdoor dining spaces,” Singleton said. “Partnering in Burlington County Restaurant Week is another way we can help them recover and rebound. We’re thrilled to help spread the word about all the great dining choices located right here in Burlington County.”

For a full list, of participating restaurants visit the Burlington County Restaurant Week website at www.co.burlington.nj.us/1844/Restaurant-Week-2021 and follow the commissioners and senators on Facebook.