Susana Natalucci knows that business has been off since 9/11. As co-owner of Giovanni’s Atrium, she sees the negative impact that the ongoing construction is having on the recovery of many Lower Manhattan restaurants, particularly in the blocks immediately south of the World Trade Center site.
“Our main business came from the businesses that are unfortunately no longer there and our location hasn’t helped,” Natalucci said of the 100 Washington St. restaurant. “But this program has definitely been beneficial for us.”
The program Natalucci was referring to is “Downtown for Dinner,” a dining initiative established five years ago by The Alliance for Downtown New York. The event offers prix fixe dining for workers, residents and tourists to experience the area’s mix of restaurants.
Giovanni’s Atrium has participated in “Dinner for Downtown” since its inception.
Other participating restaurants have enjoyed a similar increase in business during this dinner event, with some being completely booked for the full week.
This year’s weeklong “Downtown for Dinner 2006” will run from Monday, Nov. 13 through Sunday, Nov. 19 and will feature $30 prix fixe dinners at more than three dozen Lower Manhattan restaurants.
For more information on participating businesses and their locations, visit www.downtownny.com or call (212) 835-2789.
– Craig Stalzer
