Supporting Atlanta’s Restaurant Industry

Typically, when you click on or flip to a restaurant review, you expect a highlight of a high-profile restaurant or write-up of a fun, new space to host a catered event. But this article is a little different. The same restaurants that we loved to visit pre-coronavirus are the ones that are now struggling. They need our help. According to the National Restaurant Association, as of December 2020, close to 20% of restaurants in the industry either face long-term closures or have closed their doors permanently. That’s more than 110,000 establishments across the country; many of those places were well-established businesses and fixtures in their communities. Despite pivoting their operation strategies and adhering to the ever-changing safety protocols, the restaurant industry is in a free fall. Atlanta eateries may soon be out of options – but there are still things we, the guests, can do to help.

Tip Generously

Many people who work in the restaurant and hospitality industry rely on tips to make ends meet. If their place of employment closes, or patrons stop visiting the restaurants as frequently – that employee’s revenue stream dries up. So, one thing we can do to support Atlanta’s restaurants and its restaurant workers is to leave a generous tip, if you’re financially able to. These people are risking their health to make sure we continue to receive our favorite local meals and treats. Show your support by tipping them a few dollars extra or a higher percentage of the meal. (Some restaurants that have temporarily closed have a digital tip jar so that patrons can continue to support their favorite servers, baristas, and bartenders).

Purchase a Gift Card

While the industry is slow right now, restaurants will not have to face these limitations forever. Another way to support your favorite local eatery is to purchase a gift card. When you purchase a gift card, that money is directly and immediately deposited into the restaurant – which can be a lifeline right now for many places. You can stock up on gift cards for future visits (when you use them, it will feel like you’re eating for free!). Or, you can purchase gift cards to use as presents or even as rewards for your employees. Many restaurants offer their gift cards online, with some providing additional discounts through their websites or social media.

Order Take-Out When Possible

You miss visiting your favorite local restaurants. And they miss seeing you, too. But just because you can’t enjoy the restaurant atmosphere doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy their dishes. If you feel comfortable, one solution is to place an order for delivery or pick-up. Take-out orders have been keeping restaurants afloat these past few months and will continue to do so until the coronavirus begins to dissipate. So, the next time you’re craving your favorite restaurant dish or just need a change from your own cooking, consider placing a take-out order with an Atlanta eatery.

Enjoy an Outdoor Patio

Soon, it will be spring in Atlanta. It’s one of the best times to enjoy our Southern city. If you feel comfortable, another way to support Atlanta’s restaurant scene is to visit one of the many beautiful patio spaces. Have brunch in the sunshine. Take a break from the office and eat your lunch at an outdoor restaurant. Take advantage of the longer daylight hours and treat your loved ones to dinner al fresco. With outdoor dining, there is more air movement and it’s easier to social distance. It’s an opportune way to enjoy a meal and continue supporting Atlanta’s restaurant industry.

Give to Organizations that Give Back

When a restaurant closes, either temporarily or for good, it’s not just the restaurant that suffers. It’s also the owners, chefs, servers, bartenders, hosts, and other staffers who suffer. Those who were struggling to make a living wage before COVID-19 are facing even more dire circumstances. One way to show your solidarity and support Atlanta’s food service industry is to donate to an organization such as the Giving Kitchen.

Giving Kitchen, which is based in Atlanta, provides emergency assistance to food service workers through financial support and other community resources. The financial assistance helps cover the employee’s rent, utilities, and other critical needs. Giving Kitchen also operates a Stability Network, which connects people to resources related to mental health, physical wellness, social services, and legal services. The organization has supported more than 6,000 food service workers in crisis. By getting involved or making a donation, you can make a huge difference.

“Giving back through Giving Kitchen means that you share our commitment to providing emergency assistance to food service workers with compassion and care. Keep the lights on, the water flowing, and the rent paid for someone in need,” says Jen Hidinger-Kendrick, Co-founder and Marketing & Communications Director of Giving Kitchen. “With small donations, when pooled together, can make a profound impact on the life of a food service worker, and their family, throughout the year. Please consider giving a one-time donation or sign up for a recurring gift to make sure food service workers know that you have their backs.” 

Step Up Your Support

It’s unclear exactly how COVID-19 will impact Atlanta’s restaurant industry in the long-term. But for the next few months, at least, restaurants will continue to pivot, re-strategize, and adhere to ever-changing health protocols. We can assist those restaurants and employees by stepping up and continuing to support these fellow businesses. After all, these gathering places are the heart of our local communities. They deserve our help.

This article previously appeared in the Dec/Jan 2020 issue of The Atlanta Lawyer magazine