Vicki Isley is the senior vice president of marketing and communications at Destination DC, which promotes tourism in the nation’s capital. Her organization, along with the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, is presenting D.C.’s Summer Restaurant Week from Aug. 11 to 17.
What is the purpose of Restaurant Week?
Restaurant Week, which has been here in D.C. for seven years, is a great opportunity to showcase our restaurants. … We choose weeks in August and January because business is slower, and people can get reservations when they wouldn’t normally be able to.
Why have prices increased this time?
Prices had to be raised because of higher gas and food prices. The pricing has stayed consistent for seven years, and this time lunch prices will still stay at $20.08, but dinner prices will be $35.08 instead of $30.08.
How long have you been involved in the D.C. tourism scene, and why is it important for the city?
I’ve worked with Destination DC for seven years. Destination marketing is a great way to show off the city, and it’s also a really important business. Visitors generate millions of dollars to help run the city. Based on a city tourism impact study, residents save $2,300 a year each because of the taxes visitors generate.
What makes D.C. a unique city?
D.C. is such a powerful city, but one that you can have personal and memorable experiences in. I’m a Logan Circle resident. It’s a really fun environment, and I love how walkable the city is and its global aspect of food.
What is your favorite restaurant?
It depends on what mood I’m in. There’s great diversity here. I love Ben’s Chili Bowl, but I also love the tasting menu at CityZen.
What is your favorite leisure activity in D.C.?
I love walking around the city, and I’m a regular at the Dupont farmers market on Sundays.
