The 12th Chicago Restaurant Week begins today, Jan. 25, and runs until Feb. 7. Consumers get to enjoy prix-fixe menus starting at $24 for lunch and brunch and $36 or $48 for dinner.

Director of Partnerships Jordan Engerman said Restaurant Week gives visitors and locals a unique opportunity to enjoy dining deals and experiences throughout the Chicagoland area.

This year there are just under 400 restaurants participating, a record for the event, Engerman said. More than 100 of those restaurants are participating for the first time.

Engerman said students should especially take advantage of Restaurant Week.

“This gives [students] a really great opportunity to try a restaurant they may not have tried in the past, knowing that students are probably very budget-conscious,” he said.

Participating restaurants in the South Loop include 720 South Bar & Grill, Aurelio’s Pizza, Chicago Curry House, The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Chicago Oyster House, Half Sour, Mercat a la Planxa, SOFI Restaurant & Bar, Tapas Valencia, Victory Tap Chicago and Woven & Bound Restaurant.