When the Palos Area Chamber of Commerce launched its first-ever Restaurant Week, Heights Cycle found a way to mix a little sweat with a lot of flavor.
Megan Wenstrup, owner of Heights Cycle at 12345 W. 127th Street, said she saw the event as the perfect chance to get people out of the house, support local businesses, and enjoy a great meal. “January is also when everyone’s thinking about their New Year’s resolutions, which often involve getting healthier,” she said. “I reached out to a few restaurants to see how we could team up.”
The collaboration brought three local favorites into the studio. Meshico, 12001 S. Harlem Ave., served tacos and margaritas to riders on Monday, Jan. 26, right after the workout. On Tuesday, riders earned entries for an Oranges Pancake House, 12606 S. Harlem Ave., gift card raffle, which went to longtime 5:30 a.m. rider Jamie Bultius. Johnny’s Rooftop, 12350 S. Harlem Ave., dropped by Wednesday with samples of their BBQ ribs for afternoon and evening classes.
Wenstrup said the effort meant more than just food and prizes.
“It’s about celebrating the local businesses that make Palos Heights special and standing together as a community,” she said.
To keep the fun going, anyone who dined at Meshico, Oranges Pancake House, or Johnny’s Rooftop during Restaurant Week can grab three classes at Heights Cycle for $29. Complete them within 10 days and Wenstrup will throw in another three classes free.
Tacos after a workout, a raffle winner at sunrise, and BBQ ribs in the evening. It was a week that reminded riders why small businesses make a big difference. “Tacos after a workout? Does it get any better?” Wenstrup said.