How to Support Local Restaurants During Self-Isolation
Updated: April 19, 2023
Written by
AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome
Order Takeout
For cities and counties that aren’t in full lockdown mode, ordering takeout is the best way to support local restaurants. Even if your pantry is fully stocked, consider ordering an extra meal or two for your freezer or leaving one on the doorstep of a family member, an elderly neighbor, a friend or a colleague. Do you know a health care worker or a first responder? They would probably appreciate a meal, too.
Takeout might look a little different now, as many restaurants are offering take-and-bake packages, meal kits and family-size portions.Keep an eye out for national efforts you can participate in like (#TheGreatAmericanTakeout), which encourages consumers to order delivery or takeout meals.
Be Mindful About Delivery Services
Restaurants often partner with third-party delivery platforms like Caviar, DoorDash, Grubhub, Postmates and Uber Eats to get their food to you quickly and conveniently, but keep in mind that these delivery services often take a percentage of the profit away from the restaurant — sometimes as much as 30 percent of a sale.
The best way to support your local restaurants is to opt for curbside pickup if possible, or ask if they employ their own delivery drivers.
Think Beyond Dinner
Consider ordering takeout at mealtimes other than dinner. Is there a mom-and-pop diner that offers a takeout breakfast or perhaps an independent coffee shop near you with to-go pastries? What about a local spot with sandwiches, desserts or fresh juices and smoothies? Now is a great time to find independent restaurants near you and support them at mealtimes beyond dinner. You can also try to find something new.Buy Merch or Gift Cards
Even if you're not ready to dine-in just yet at a local restaurant, you can still show support by purchasing merchandise or gift cards if they’re available. Some restaurants offer T-shirts, hats, tote bags, cookbooks, sauces or prepackaged coffee grounds in their online storefronts.
Share Their Posts
Give restaurants the gift of free advertising by sharing their social media posts. The algorithms on social networks often prioritize content from individuals over content from businesses, so a post from you about a great takeout experience or a photo of a delicious meal can go a long way. Word-of-mouth is also invaluable — start a group chat with work colleagues or family members to share your favorite restaurants that are open for business.
Make a Donation
Reach out to restaurant owners in your community through email, social media messages or phone calls (please be mindful of their time) to see if they could use any charitable donations. Whether it’s money or supplies, some owners might take you up on the offer. You can also visit crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe to search for businesses around you that may be struggling. Some states have begun setting up relief funds to assist food service workers and their families.
Offer Thanks
When you do patronize a local restaurant, thank the employees and owners for feeding you! This is a challenging, stressful time for everyone, and offering a compliment, a smile, a generous tip or a glowing online review can do a lot for their morale — and yours, too.
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