Eats Beat
* When your first novel's called "Fish and Grits," it makes sense to launch it at Geechee Girl Rice Cafe (6825 Germantown Ave., 215-843-8113), where the title's on the (brunch) menu. Local author Tina Smith-Brown will do just that with a "Sign N Dine" from 1-4 p.m. Sunday. $45 includes a signed copy of the book and a brunch of assorted breakfast fare and, of course, fish and grits.
* When your first novel's called "Fish and Grits," it makes sense to launch it at Geechee Girl Rice Cafe (6825 Germantown Ave., 215-843-8113), where the title's on the (brunch) menu. Local author Tina Smith-Brown will do just that with a "Sign N Dine" from 1-4 p.m. Sunday. $45 includes a signed copy of the book and a brunch of assorted breakfast fare and, of course, fish and grits.
* Restaurant Week ends tomorrow, but the good deals aren't over at Le Bec-Fin (1523 Walnut St., 215-567-1000), which is extending its 40-Year Celebration with a four courses for $40 dinner and a $40-a-bottle wine list until Oct. 31. This menu is offered 5-6 p.m. weekdays in the main dining room and all evening at Le Bar Lyonnais. Not offered Saturdays.
* Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. is among the 25 Best Cocktail Bars in America as determined by GQ magazine in its October issue. GQ scribe Kevin Sintumaung described the drink menu, which specializes in cocktails inspired by the pre-Prohibition era, as "ambitious." The Franklin also serves small plates. It was named one of Bon Appétit's Top 10 New Bars and made Philadelphia magazine's Best of list this year.
* Marathon, with six downtown locations (www.eatmarathon.com) has a new 20/20 Menu featuring three courses for just $20 and a $20 bottle of wine. Menus will change weekly. "We'll offer this deal year-round, so guests can come back again and again for different dishes and wines," said owner Cary Borish.
Send food and restaurant news to Laurie T. Conrad at ConradL@phillynews.com.