10 Ways to Support Local Restaurants During the Coronavirus

The restaurant industry has been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 global pandemic. How big of an impact has it had? Consider this grim statistic: The year-over-year decline of seated dinners in restaurants was down 100 percent as of May 6, 2020, according to Statista.

That’s not a typo.

Here’s what you can do to help keep these restaurants in business:

1. Who’s open?

Don’t assume that your favorite diner down the street has shut down – they could be offering curbside or delivery services. The restaurant support COVID measures generally follow social distancing rules, as the restaurant employees will wear masks (and sometimes gloves) while they bring their food out to your car once your order is ready. Not sure who’s still open? Call them, and make sure you get their new hours of operation, as most restaurants have changed their hours.

2. Don’t forget about drive-thru!

Drive-thru is still an option for most fast food restaurants. Lines, though, can be a bit longer, so keep this in mind if you’re in a hurry.

3. Support Local

To be clear, the pandemic has impacted every restaurant, from the large chains to the small mom-and-pop diner. However, the large chain restaurants may have more of an overall financial cushion to fall back on, while that’s likely not going to be the case with smaller, locally owned restaurants.

4. Tip generously

You don’t have to be there to leave a tip for good services. You can do it via the ordering app or leave it at your front door for the courier.

5. Donate

Many employees are being laid off because of the reduced income. You can help them keep their jobs by donating through your restaurant’s GoFundMe account.

6. Look for specials

Many restaurants are offering fantastic deals right now as eateries scramble to keep customers. If you can’t find any deals online, you can always call the restaurant to see what specials they’re offering.

7. Write Positive Reviews

How many times have you been undecided about a restaurant until you read a positive review? Customers not only rely on these reviews, but good ones will help keep your favorite establishment open.

8. Buy a Gift Card

Some restaurants are still paying the normal operating expenses such as rent and taxes despite the decline in operations. By buying a gift card for your restaurant, $1 is donated to restaurant charities. This money will help the hotels stay in business for as long as this pandemic stays. You can check out the Open Table program here.

9. Family-sized specials

Some restaurants have started offering “family meals.” As opposed to taking an “ala carte” approach, one meal (and sides) is offered at a discounted rate.

10. Give them some social media love!

You can do this by simply liking, sharing, and posting about the restaurants and their services on your social media platforms. Really enjoyed your meal? Thought the overall experience was worth mentioning? Telling people about it is more important than ever.

Remember, you can offer the much needed financial and moral support to the industry in the comfort of your home. This is the moment to look out for each other. Stay home, stay safe!