As everyone and everything is adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic, Huntsville’s annual fare fair – aka Restaurant Week – has met the challenge with creative alternatives.

So, you better have your appetite ready because Huntsville Restaurant Week 2020, with the slogan “Socially Distant, Still Delicious,” begins Friday and the participating businesses will be serving up a wide assortment of amazing eats through Aug. 23.

To meet the pandemic challenge, people have the option of dining in, take out, or delivery. The Huntsville/Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau has partnered with Grub South, making it easy to enjoy all that Restaurant Week has to offer – in the comfort of one’s home or hotel room.

“A thriving culinary scene is crucial for any city to succeed as a travel destination,” said Judy Ryals, President/CEO of the CVB. “We want – and very much need – our local restaurants to make it through this pandemic. For our residents, this year is not just an opportunity to enjoy local restaurants, it’s also an opportunity to support your neighbors and friends during a very challenging time.”

This year, there will be more than 50 locally owned and operated restaurants, food trucks and breweries featured; each presenting unique menu items, combined with an assortment of special offerings.

A sample of the delicious fare offered during Huntsville Restaurant Week. (Photo/Steve Babin)

There will also be several first-time participants for the annual event. Domaine South, Hippea Camper, Kona Grill, New South Hot Dog & Sushi, along with Madison favorites Tom Brown’s and Goodland Pourhouse are but a few of the newcomers.

Along with a wide assortment of dining options, this year’s Restaurant Week is sporting a new logo – a pairing of culinary arts and rocket iconography. It’s a fresh new look that succinctly captures the essence of the event, as well as the community.

Now in its ninth year, Restaurant Week is an event where locals and visitors alike can partake of the finest culinary delights the Huntsville hospitality industry has to offer. Only this year, COVID-19 has changed things up a bit.

Throughout Restaurant Week, the CVB will host 10 days of giveaways through social media. Participants need only tweet or post to Facebook or Instagram, using the hashtag #DineHsv – and include their favorite “foodie” photos and food-inspired commentary. A winner will be selected daily. Prizes include restaurant gift cards and other exciting goodies.

For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.huntsville.org/restaurantweek