This week marked the beginning of Lent, 40 days of prayer and reflection leading up to Easter. Fridays can be tough because many Christians aren’t allowed to eat meat on Fridays. Local restaurants have created Lent-friendly menus.

Signs advertising Lent-friendly menus have popped up all across South Bend.

At Nick’s Patio, the manager said they always like to dish out vegetarian and fish options, but those become even more popular during Lent.

He says they always make sure it’s on the menu.

"We choose to do it because we know how hard it is for people to give up enjoying meat during this time of year but we understand it's a promise they made to each other and we want to give them nice options during the struggle to give up meat,” said Jeff Samoilas, manager or Nick’s Patio.

Fast food chains are also offering up specials on fish sandwiches and other meat-free menu items.