Tomorrow, April 7, marks the return of #407day, a campaign introduced last year to inspire support for local restaurants — the Orlando hospitality community’s largest sector.
“Our restaurant community has always represented a vital part of who we are as a region,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings in a press release. “This year, we are proud to continue to show our support for our restaurants through ‘#407 Day.’ Although it has been challenging, we are resilient and we continue to always have a neighbors helping neighbors philosophy. I encourage our residents to enjoy the time out or order takeout or delivery.”
Local restaurants make up 57% of the hospitality industry in Central Florida, one that’s been ravaged by the effects of COVID-19.
“Our local restaurants are part of the fabric of Orlando’s community, creating jobs for over 100,000 residents, and offering a wide variety of cuisine from nearly 40 countries from around the world,” said Visit Orlando President and CEO Casandra Matej. “We have over 6,000 restaurants in our region, and 407 Day is a great way to show your local favorite that you appreciate them by dining in or ordering out and lifting them up on social media.”
Some local businesses — including Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream — are planning specials and collaborations with other entities. In Kelly’s case, that’s with Gideon’s Bakehouse.
Residents are encouraged to share images of their local favorites on @VisitOrlando’s and @OrangeCoFL’s social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using #407Day.
Find me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @amydroo or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie or email me at amthompson@orlandosentinel.com, and your question could be answered in my weekly Ask Amy Drew column. For more foodie fun, join the Let’s Eat, Orlando Facebook group.
