Much has been said in the local press lately of the declining fortunes of many of the area's restaurants. The winter has been harsh, the economy is slowing, and Twin Cities residents just don't seem to be eating out as much.

If you haven't been out to eat for a while, here's a great excuse to get your friends together, or have a date night with your loved one, and go out to one of our wonderful local restaurants.

On Thursday April 24, Dining Out For Life, a nationwide AIDS/HIV fundraising event, comes to the Twin Cities. When you dine at one of over 120 local restaurants, the restaurant will donate a portion of their receipts to the Aliveness Project, a Minneapolis community center that provides services and programs to the HIV/AIDS community.

Participating restaurants cover almost all cuisines, and there's something for every budget. They include the Sample Room Restaurant and the Purple Onion Cafe in Minneapolis, the Great Waters Brewing Company and Trotter's Cafe and Bakery in St. Paul.

The full list of restaurants is on the Dining Out For Life website. What a great reason to skip cooking for a night, and treat yourself to a meal out.

• The Sample Room Restaurant, Minneapolis
• The Purple Onion Cafe and Coffee Shop, Minneapolis
• Great Waters Brewing Company, St. Paul
• Trotter's Cafe and Bakery, St. Paul

_{Trotter's Cafe and Bakery. Photo © Clara James}