As household budgets remain stretched and local businesses continue to navigate economic challenges, organizers behind Barrie's annual Locallicious event say this year's festival is about more than finding a good meal at a great price. It's also about supporting the independent restaurants that help shape the city's identity.
Running from October 16 to November 1, Locallicious will feature 13 participating restaurants offering specially priced three-course menus, giving residents a chance to discover new dining destinations or revisit longtime favourites.
The event was inspired by Toronto's popular Winterlicious and Summerlicious programs.
"I was out for lunch in Toronto and what they called Winterlicious and Summerlicious, and they were very successful," Locallicious founder Randy Feltis told Barrie 360. "And the restaurants were absolutely packed on a Wednesday. And we were like, hey, we can do this in Barrie."
What started with six restaurants has grown into a staple of Barrie's dining scene.
For diners, Locallicious offers significant value at a time when eating out has become increasingly expensive. Randy Feltis said participating restaurants will serve three-course meals priced between $25 and $45.
"So, like you do three courses from anywhere from 25 to 45 dollars," Feltis said. "Which is crazy in today's world."
The event also arrives during what organizers describe as a critical period for local restaurants, many of which continue to deal with rising food costs, inflation and razor-thin profit margins.
"It is critical," sponsor Peggy Hill said of community support for the industry. "It's been a tough year. The economy's tough, but I mean, with the cost of inflation, when you think about what these meals cost, you're gonna pay that anywhere you go."
Feltis said Locallicious provides much-needed support during a traditionally slower season while encouraging residents to think about dining locally. "The restaurant scene in Barrie is absolutely incredible, but it's only incredible because of the independent restaurants."
Listen below to our interview with founder Randy Feltis and sponsor Peggy Hill.
Organizers say Barrie's growing reputation as a destination for food lovers depends on the success of those locally owned establishments.
"If we want more restaurants to open up, the restaurants we have have to be successful," Feltis said. "We have to support them. And then other people will see that and be like, we gotta go to Barrie because that is a foodie town."
Beyond the discounted menus, organizers say Locallicious gives residents a chance to explore new restaurants, revisit old favourites and help ensure local eateries remain a vibrant part of the community.
For food lovers looking to enjoy Barrie's culinary scene this fall, Locallicious offers an opportunity to support local chefs and restaurateurs while enjoying a meal at a price that is increasingly hard to find.
