If you wandered through downtown Janesville this January, your senses were probably hijacked by the mouthwatering aromas drifting from open doors, the sound of clinking glasses, and the buzz of conversation that seemed to echo off the brick-lined streets. That was no coincidence — that was Downtown Janesville’s first-ever Restaurant Week, and for those of us lucky enough to experience it, it was more than a series of meals. It was a moment.
From January 14–17, 2025, nine of our favorite local restaurants opened their doors with special prix-fixe menus, limited-time dishes, and that unmistakable feeling you get when a community comes together for something joyful. For a city like Janesville — where we care about supporting small business, shaking hands with our neighbors, and eating well — this event hit all the right notes.
Spots like Genisa Wine Bar served up elegant Mediterranean-inspired plates that paired beautifully with their curated wine list, while The Drafthouse leaned into hearty comfort food and local brews. Sandee’s Thai Fusion, always a flavor-forward favorite, introduced a sampler menu that brought bold spices and warm hospitality to the table. Even restaurants like The Sugar Exchange got in on the fun with sweet treats that made dessert lovers out of all of us.
What made it special wasn’t just the food — though that alone would’ve been worth it. It was the energy. You could feel it in every seat filled by new customers trying places they hadn’t yet discovered. You could hear it in the conversations sparked between strangers at neighboring tables. And you could see it in the proud smiles of the owners and staff who work day in and day out to bring something great to Janesville’s dining scene.
Elaina Szyjewski, Managing Director of Downtown Janesville Inc., hit the nail on the head when she said, “Restaurant Week is about more than just eating out. It’s about spotlighting the creativity, passion, and resilience of our downtown restaurants. After the post-holiday slump, this event is a real boost — for businesses and for the community.” (WCLO Radio)
Let’s be real — the winter months in Wisconsin can be tough. The holidays are over, the cold is relentless, and cabin fever is knocking. But Restaurant Week gave us a reason to layer up, head out, and remember why we love this city. It reminded us that Janesville is full of passionate chefs, warm hosts, hidden culinary gems, and neighbors who show up when it matters.
If you missed it this year, don’t worry — word is that plans are already underway for an even bigger event in 2026. More restaurants. More flavors. More community pride. And honestly, we could use more of all of it.
For now, take a minute to shout out your favorite spot from the week, leave them a review, and keep supporting the local food scene even after the banners come down. These businesses show up for us — let’s keep showing up for them.
Participating favorites included:
- The Drafthouse – Known for its hearty pub fare and local brews.
- Genisa Wine Bar – A cozy date-night spot offering handpicked wines and artisan bites.
- Sandee’s Thai Fusion – Bold flavors, vibrant spices, and a fan-favorite Pad Thai.
From elevated comfort food to global cuisine, Restaurant Week showcased just how much Janesville has to offer when it comes to good eats.
What made it great?
- Special prix-fixe menus helped diners try new things without breaking the bank.
- A huge boost in foot traffic gave restaurants a post-holiday revenue push.
- It brought together foodies, families, and first-timers alike in a shared experience downtown.
Next year’s plans? Word on the street is that even more restaurants want in. If you missed it this time, don’t worry—you’ve now got a reason to look forward to January.