Food is the theme for Syracuse in the coming week, and you have your pick of what kind, and where to eat.

On Wednesday, the Downtown Dining Week gets underway, offering 25 different restaurants presenting 3 course meals for $25 or less.   Merike Trier, executive director of the Downtown Committee, says that besides meals, there are several 'extras' this year, including a free film festival on Sundays ("Some Like it Hot" on Feb 19, "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" on Feb 26 at 7pm, Al's Wine & Whiskey Lounge), half-price at the Clinton Square skating rink after a meal, and lots of social media links where you can check menus and reviews, submit to photo contests and see behind the scenes at participating restaurants.
Downtown Dining Week runs Wednesday through February 29th.

Saturday (February 18th) is Chili Bowl Fest day at Syracuse's Thornden Park. This benefit for the Thornden Park Association (which makes improvements to the park) includes sampling and activities, like a disco golf tournament.  Dan Sanders, with the Association, says 4 chilis are being offered: 'Syracuse Chili' (his recipe, made with as many Syracuse/CNY products as he can find); 'Field House Chili (ground beef, wine, black olives, dill and mroe): Vegetarian Chili (vegetables and spices, including chocolate!); Turkey Chili (make with Plainville turkey, green chilies and spices--they say it's blonde). Chili can be purchased by type, or in a sampler platter--all are prepared in the certified kitchen at the Thornden Field House.   In addition, there are home made corn breads and home made root beer.  The Chili Bowl Fest is noon - 4 next Saturday.

Hungry yet?