The third annual InnisFULL has wrapped up for another year with the event proving to be a huge success for restaurants and the community alike.
Originally started during the pandemic, Coun. Jennifer Richardson once again invited local restaurants to sign up and offer a special, which was promoted online via the Connecting Innisfil Facebook group.
More than a dozen restaurants and eateries in Innisfil signed up to offer specials for dine-in or take-out, and some donated gift certificates to their establishment.
Giveaways were conducted online for the early bird and the grand prize draws that were donated by Susan Dixon of the Trentadue Torres Real Estate Group RE/MAX Realty.
A “huge thank you to all the restaurants that participated with all their specials,” Richardson said. “I hope that it was a prosperous event for all of them. Also a big thank you to all of the residents that participated themselves and tried out new restaurants and checked out our local eateries. And lastly, to Susan Dixon and all the restaurants that donated gift cards for all of our draws.”
Dixon said she was happy to partner with Richardson and provide gift cards to local participating restaurants as prizes because some local eateries have struggled through the last couple of years.
"This is a great way to encourage residents to try establishments they haven’t yet, or visit favourites for their InnisFULL special and show support."
Restaurants and local eateries appreciated the opportunity to participate.
On behalf of Domino’s Pizza in Innisfil, Operations Director of Domino's Pizza Barrie, Dave Chalut, said his goal is to provide an offer that allows people to sample many items on the menu for a reasonable price.
“We always gain new customers, and our loyal ones get to try something new," he explained. "InnisFULL is always at the perfect time of year, as this is traditionally the slowest time of (the) year for restaurants. Getting folks out to try something new in town is a great way to pass those February blues.”
Monique and Jim Siozou from Johnny Burger told InnisfilToday the event was amazing and helped to get more people through its doors.
"Johnny Burger would like to thank the volunteers that help organize InnisFULL; it would not be here without them.”
Whether they discovered a new favourite through InnisFULL or chose to frequent a couple of tried-and-true establishments, community members are encouraged to continue to support local. Follow the Connecting Innisfil Facebook page for upcoming events.
Amber Green is a freelance journalist for Village Media Inc.
