The 2020 dining struggle is real. Everyone wants to enjoy their favorite food, at their favorite restaurants, at a table with their loved ones- but due to Covid-19 restrictions, this may not be realistic. What do they do now? Do they risk giving this deadly virus to their loved ones, or do they forfeit their favorite meal altogether? The answer is…. neither! Luckily for you, there are two local restaurants that dedicate themselves to giving customers a peace-of-mind.

The Red Hen

The Red Hen takes the Coronavirus VERY seriously. For starters, they abide by the safety guidelines. For instance, they offer outdoor dining with socially distanced tables. They go to extraordinary measures when it comes to protecting customers and their loved ones. While restaurants are now allowed to welcome their customers indoors, The Red Hen chooses not to. They value the importance of their employees and consumers much more than making a few extra dollars. While they are implementing all of these safety guidelines, one thing does remain the same- the quality of their delicious delicacies.

The Village Pub

The Village Pub is famous for their delicious food. Whether you long for a burger or tacos, you know that you will leave happy- and very full. Safety remains The Village Pub’s top priority. Not only are precautions enforced on their customers, but they also enforce safety procedures amongst their staff. Before an employee can even step foot on the campus, they must show no symptoms of the virus along with getting their temperature taken. Throughout shifts, employees must wear masks and wash their hands in between handling tables. As far as the customers, they must wear a mask while not seated at their table. They have also created an outdoor dining area in the event that one still feels tentative.

What is it Like to Work in a Restaurant During This Unprecedented Time?

Many restaurant workers, similar to first responders, have put their lives on the line during this pandemic. According to Natalie Hanley, a former server at the Village Pub and a soon-to-be waitress at Bahama Breeze, working in a restaurant during this time is ” stressful “.  She continues to explain, ” I have to hope that people come in to make money.” Many people working within a restaurant during this time rely on customers coming to their restaurant in order for them to make money. When asked whether she feels safe when working and if the rules are followed, she stated,” Yes. I feel safe at both places because everyone wears masks. The customers follow the rules, especially at the Village Pub. Most people eat indoors. The staff follows the rules at both places.” As one can obviously see, both customers and the staff takes the Coronavirus seriously, and they make sure that they are following safety guidelines.

Ultimately, one does not need to choose between having the time of their lives with loved ones and skipping their favorite meal. At these two heroic restaurants, they can have the best of both worlds. Not only will they leave happy and healthy- but stuffed.