So eat already: NYC Summer 2009 Restaurant Week is in full gear

Here's the scoop for all of my fellow foodies out there. NYC and Co. partners with Coca-Cola, AMEX and JetBlue to launch the summer 2009 NYC Restaurant Week, complete with extended dates and greater value.

The official "Great Taste of Summer" kickoff event was on July 9 at the Shops at Columbus Circle. This event featured gourmet tastings from several participating restaurants and special guests including Eat Out NY host Kelly Choi (love her), and the cast of the hit Broadway remake of Hair.

This year marks the 18th year for NYC Restaurant Week. It will now last for three weeks instead of two, extending from July 12 – 31 (excluding Saturdays). Some restaurants may not participate on Sundays.