New York Restaurants Reopening and continues to struggle to reopen. See the restaurant industry in New York is highly competitive. Now with Covid-19 still present worldwide, it’s going to continue to affect local restaurants. As businesses struggle to stay afloat, your favorite spot continues to face hardships as customers want to avoid unnecessary exposure to the virus. Restaurants in New York need Covid relief.
Having been in the restaurant industry for numerous years, I have done every job you can imagine. From dishwasher, as a sous chef to management – there is nothing I have not experienced. Since the age of 15, I have covered it all.
On my first day at Culinary School, the Dean of Staff said, “From this day forward, you will be in the entertainment business.” I could not help but laugh because I thought I was there to make a soufflé. Now, after many years of experience, I understand how true this is. The hospitality industry is a close community, and there is a sense of community among us and an “I have your back” attitude when serving the public.
I am witness to extraordinary kindness and friendship:
- A young waitress who soothes a fussy baby so the young couple can enjoy a stress-free moment on their first night out in more than a year.
- The fantastic Chef recreated a recipe on the fly because a guest was allergic to an ingredient in his most famous dish.
- The closing manager walked each waitress to their car after a late-night shift to ensure their safety.
- A Jewish waitress picks up a double shift on Christmas day so her Catholic coworker can spend time with family.
Vendors helping hands
- Bill Kellner of M.J. Kellner in Springfield, IL, is determined to keep his distributorship independent regardless of how many offers he got over the years. Since he had no heirs, he initiated an Employee Stock Ownership Plan that got executed over several years. Employees could gain ownership of the company.
- A sales rep left his child’s recital on a Saturday afternoon to deliver prime ribs from his warehouse to rescue a restaurant that had run out because someone miscounted.
- Lastly, I went to a new restaurant opening night to conduct a new dishwasher staff training class. When the students failed to show up, I washed dishes for three hours. Later the Chef cut his hand, and I filled in on the cook’s line until closing.
Danny Meyer
“Each diner needs to believe that they’re the only one in the world that matters.”
– Danny Meyer
Danny Meyer is the founder of Union Square Hospitality Group, will stand by his quote in everything he does. His company operates the highly acclaimed New York restaurants Union Square Café, Gramercy, Shake Shack, Blue Smoke, North End Grill, and many more.
Both Danny and I grew up in St. Lewis and then relocated to New York. Aside from being a restauranteur, he has co-authored three books, including “Setting the Table.” If you are considering a foodservice career, it is a must-read!
Danny Meyer’s quote goes far beyond that. It is a reminder to us all in this industry how important it is to demonstrate the “I have your back” mentality when serving the public. While I have not achieved the same success as he has, my business philosophy is the same. His quote is just as important to me as it is to other vendors who supply the restaurants.
Our Community Needs Local Support
We love what we do and provide our customers with an outstanding dining experience. We are all part of a team, and it includes our patrons.
While Covid-19 has put pressure on the economy, it has taken an immense toll on restaurants and their vendors. Restaurants, bars, and cafes have become carry-out only or seating at a low capacity. With New York restaurants reopening, the industry is relying the most on you, the consumer.
There are a few ways to support New York restaurants:
- Order carry-out – The income keeps the restaurant going.
- Make sure tip – workers may not be serving you but are working hard to keep the restaurant afloat.
- Donate money to restaurant relief funds.
- Show your support by purchasing gift cards to the restaurant.
Remember that a local restaurant’s focus is not on profits for their shareholders. They worry about keeping their establishment’s lights on or helping their employees, whom they care deeply about. Local restaurants are born out of a dream and need support from their community to survive. Never forget that their livelihood depends on your repeat business.
Final Thoughts
New York Restaurants Reopening and counting on your support. It is communities helping communities in their darkest moments. Let’s reexamine our beliefs about the people we serve and, likewise, those who serve us so we can all begin to thrive as the country recovers from a worldwide pandemic.
Also check : Preventing Cross Contamination – Food Safety Tips