Spring Dine O'Round invites you to sample Salt Lake's finest eateries

The Downtown Dine O'Round is back!

Although it's usually held in September, restaurant owners declared a new spring event beginning Friday through May 19. Thirty restaurants are offering a fixed-price, three-course dinner for either $15 or $25 per person.

And, new this time — 16 restaurants will also offer a two-course lunch for $10.

Begun in September 2003, the Dine O' Round has given the public a chance to try a different restaurant or get reacquainted with an old favorite. The event has attracted thousands of diners, helping them to break out of their usual restaurant rut.

Spokesman John Becker said that customer comments indicated a demand for a spring event as well.

I think the lunch idea is a great one. In the past year, many people who work downtown have seen some of their familiar haunts close due to construction. It's a good opportunity to see what spots are still open or try something new — without too much risk to your wallet. This might be the time to take a break from your usual brown-bag or grab-a-sandwich-to-go routine.

Why the two-tier dinner prices? The $25 meals are from the higher-end restaurants, where you would expect to pay $30-$40 for a three-course meal; the less expensive restaurants are charging $15.

A few caveats to keep in mind:

• Drinks, tips and tax aren't included in the price.

• The price is only good for the restaurant's Dine O'Round "special," although many of the restaurants offer two or more entree choices. I advise calling the restaurant, or checking its Web site, to find out if the special is something you'll enjoy. Otherwise, you may end up ordering from the restaurant's regular menu at the usual price.

• I'd also advise finding out if you'll need reservations, especially if you're going out with the whole office or another large group.

• Some of the restaurants won't run their Dine O'Round specials on Mother's Day (May 13).

• Some of the participants (New Yorker, Panache Wine Bar and Butterfly) are private clubs for members.

• For phone numbers, addresses, menus and other particulars, you can check www.dineoround.com.