I never miss NYC restaurant week — here's how to get the most out of it

Alexa Pipia/Business Insider

I found out about New York City Restaurant Week when I was a sophomore in college. I was living in the city and my roommate and I decided to give it a try. 

NYC Restaurant Week happens twice a year; during the winter and the summer. This year, from July 25-August 19 (not technically a week), over 350 restaurants offer pre-fixe menus — $29 for lunch; $42 for dinner. The promotion allows diners to experience fine dining at a discounted price. 

As a college student and self-proclaimed foodie, I was excited by the prospect of experiencing upscale restaurants while not completely breaking the bank. 

Four years later and I treat restaurant week like it's a holiday. I've become so accustomed that I know exactly when it's happening and make plans in advance so I don't miss it. I went from dining at one or two restaurants to having a total of six reservations for NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2016.

I'd be lying if I said all of my restaurant week experiences were great. There have been instances were I've paid way more than expected or the food was not up to par. But there's a reason I never miss it.

Here are my tips for making the most of NYC Restaurant Week.

Book reservations in advance

While reservations aren't needed, the more popular places book up quick. I suggest booking in advance — reservations open two weeks before it starts. If you sign up for the NYCgo.com newsletter, you will be alerted to the date reservations open. 

Score points on OpenTable

Calling to make a reservation is fine, but if you plan to become a restaurant week regular, I suggest starting an OpenTable account.

Not only do all the restaurants take reservations through the website, but you score 100 points for each restaurant where you dine. Once you hit 5,000 or 10,000 points, you can claim a $50 or $100 gift certificate. 

Watch out for supplement pricing

NYCgo has the majority of the restaurant week menus on the site. Check for supplement pricing — when restaurants tack a few extra dollars on the bill for a certain dish — because you can end up spending a lot more than anticipated.