Eva Myers, owner of Evita's Italian restaurant in Ocho Rios, St Ann, is upbeat and told The Gleaner that she is optimistic because so far she has received 38 reservations for Saturday, November 14, and 12 each for the 7th and 8th.

Myers said extra staff will be on hand to cope with the rush, and she is happy Restaurant Week has finally come to Ocho Rios.

"November has always been slow so we would normally throw Christmas, staff and Halloween parties at this time. With the lower prices and special menu, diners will end up getting up to 30 per cent discount," she said.

Evita's is not usually in the lower price bracket and people are calling to take advantage of the chance to sample the offerings at the 20-year-old restaurant.

barbara.ellington@gleanerjm.com