With challenging times right now as COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to dominate the news and travel plans strongly advised to be put on hold, it is a great time to help out your favorite local restaurants. Since I won’t be in Phoenix next month for Phoenix Lights and discovering what foods Phoenix has to offer, I can focus on spending my money on what’s in my city. With reduced travel, tourists and government calls to avoid large gatherings, these changes can really hit some restaurants really hard. Here are 6 ways to help restaurants right now.
1.) If Cancelling
If you have any change of plans, it is best to let the restaurants know so they can adjust accordingly. Even cancelling on the same day is better than not even showing up at all. Re-booking another day will look even better on you.
2.) Gift Cards
Buying gift cards can definitely help out restaurants earn some money if not as many people are dining in. Gift cards never expire and are considered just like cash so these cards can be used at any time whenever you want. These can be bought in the restaurant or at almost any grocery or drug store.
gift cards can be bought almost anywhere
3.) Take-Out Or Delivery
If you don’t feel like dining in and spending too much time at a restaurant, consider take out or delivery. Call to make sure they offer these choices or check other delivery companies like skip the dishes. You won’t be surrounded by strangers and you still get to eat the same delicious food in the comfort of your own home.
another option
4.) Bring A Group
If you decide to eat and sit in a restaurant, invite a small group of people to join you. The restaurant will love the extra business and the extra people can add extra fun to your night. Use this outing to enjoy the people around you and hopefully have other things to talk about besides coronavirus.
the more the merrier
5.) Celebrate Something
Restaurants love helping you celebrate anything. Could be a birthday, graduation, promotion, anniversary or anything you want. Some restaurants even offer a free dessert or something if you let them know in advance.
birthday
6.) Tip Well
Always tip but if you can afford it, tip a little extra than normal. With less people dining out, hours and shifts could be cut, so restaurant workers could be suffering more than we know. Also, restaurants are being extra strict about cleanliness so don’t worry about getting germs from the restaurant.
Cancun (March 2010)
Until it is safe to fly around the world again, consider supporting your local restaurants now so that they don’t suffer too much during these uncertain times. I know that things will eventually get better and I really hope to be flying sooner than later and get tourism and life back to normal.
Punta Cana (January 2012)
