Meal of Fortune Week replaces the Foodie Crawl of past years, but the experience and delicious world cuisines are still available. Support your local restaurants!

By Denise Keniston
tw:@denisekeniston

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has pretty much touched everything and anything that has to do with restaurants, and that includes East Somerville Main Streets’ much-loved Foodie Crawl, taking place every September.

Out of necessity, organizers are changing things up this year and rolling out a foodie week compliant with state COVID-19 rules. “Meal of Fortune Week” will offer food lovers a fun and flavorful event.

“We’ve created an exciting and delicious food experience that’s as fun as Foodie Crawl. It’s just different,” says Executive Dir. Jennifer Atwood. “Foodies will have access to the same wide-variety of cuisines from around the world that East Somerville is known for, only this year it’s a Surprise Meal for dine-in, pick-up or delivery.”

Lorenzo Reyes, owner Rincon Mexicano says he “really appreciates the support” of the community. Meal of Fortune Week is helpful in introducing new patrons to a variety of East Somerville cuisines.

This is how it works, foodies. First, you’ll need to go online and purchase a ticket which covers the cost of your meal. $25, $50, and $100 orders cover one person, two people and four people, respectively. You’ll be asked to fill out a Flavor Profile Quiz that asks you questions like, “Do you prefer sweet or savory food” and “How adventurous are you with your food choices?”

Volunteers evaluate your answers and match you with the perfect restaurant. Your Surprise Meal will be made especially for you with your preferences in mind.

Somerville resident Darlene Greene says she’ll miss the annual Foodie Crawl, but she’s excited for her meal and she’s curious what volunteers will end up delivering. “I want to support the restaurants of East Somerville right now,” she says. “I know they are struggling and it’s a really hard time for them. Plus, the food in East Somerville is always great no matter where you go.”

Participating restaurants are Rincon Mexicano (Taco Tuesday is legend), Gauchao Brazilian Cuisine (if you’re in the mood for grilled meats), Lotus Express (spicy wontons and crab Rangoon are standouts), Vinny’s at Night (try the beef braciola), Mount Verson Restaurant (an extensive wine list), Low Paisanos (the tostones are just like Grandma’s), Montecristo (the Monte Christo is a standout).

Other participating restaurants include La Brasa, Fat Hen, and Fasika. “I think the Surprise Meal is a great idea,” says Rincon Mexicano owner Lorenzo Reyes. He adds, “We know it’s different this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the food is always delicious no matter where you order it from in East Somerville. Restaurants can really use your support right now”

A 15-20% tip will be added for restaurant staff and a delivery fee will be charged if you choose the delivery option. “Meal of Fortune Week” runs from September 28 to October 4. Go to https://www.eastsomervillemainstreets.org/fortune-meal-week to get your ticket and support local restaurants.