Running a restaurant is not for the faint of heart, given high costs of operating, food and staffing, among other things. Adding a natural disaster to the mix can make survival even more daunting for restaurants. Same for other locally owned small businesses. Their success is important not just for us but for our whole community, and we can all help make it happen.
Here are some ideas to get started:
- THINK LONG-TERM
After the fires, restaurants are striving to get back on track. This can take a while, so remember to keep supporting them in the months and years ahead.
- THINK OUTSIDE THE RESTAURANT
The homes of the restaurant owners, their staff and their patrons may have been directly impacted by the fires. Show care and understanding to everyone you meet.
- ORDER TAKEOUT OR DELIVERY
You don’t have to dine in the restaurant to support them.
- BUY GIFT CARDS
This provides cash flow for the restaurant and shows them you have confidence in their future.
- SHARE THE LOVE
Encourage your friends to frequent local restaurants and share your experiences in person or on social media. (Remember to tag Edible San Fernando Valley at @ediblesfvalley so we can amplify your message.)
- SUPPORT FUNDRAISERS
Donate to local crowdfunding campaigns or disaster relief funds.
- TIP GENEROUSLY
If you can afford it, add a generous tip for the staff. They may have been affected by the fires, too.
- VOLUNTEER OR DONATE
If a restaurant is donating community meals, support them with a financial donation or offer to help.
- CHECK ON EMPLOYEES
Check on your favorite restaurant staff to see how they’re doing. If you feel comfortable, you can offer personal support or connections to resources.
- REMEMBER
Many other small, locally owned businesses are dealing with the impact of the fires. Use the suggestions above to support them as well.
Any gesture—large or small—can go a long way in helping our local restaurants, other small businesses and our community recover from the fires.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Edible San Fernando Valley documents and bring to life the interest in farm-to-table, organic and natural foods, and celebrates the people and communities who feed and sustain us. We inspire readers to support and celebrate the growers, producers, chefs, food and beverage artisans, and other food professionals in our community.
