A couple talks while dining out for Thanksgiving dinner on November 26, 2020 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Public health concerns amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have drastically changed holiday routines for many who would otherwise be traveling home and gathering for a meal with family.
Valentine's day is a special day for couples apart from their anniversaries because it is a worldwide celebration of love and affection. During this time of the year, restaurants may seem busy because couples tend to go to their favorite restaurants and have their usual dinner date.
But that will change since COVID-19 has wreaked havoc across the globe, and the pandemic is still ongoing even with the vaccines' continuous administering.
With the emergence of COVID-19, it is obvious that there will be some changes in this year's Valentine's day, which will impact the restaurant industry.
Valentine's amid COVID-19 pandemic
In an interview with Today, senior vice president of research for the National Restaurant Association. Hudson Riehle shares that Valentine's day is one of the busiest days of the restaurant industry.
Because of the pandemic this year, they are challenged on attracting more people and giving them unforgettable dine out or take away services. This means that most of the restaurants this year will have to focus on the dining out services since they have to adhere to the federal government's safety protocol and avoid further contraction of the virus.
Steffen Schebesta, CEO of a digital marketing firm for small businesses, shares with Yahoo! News that restaurants will be presenting prex fixe meals that can be made or reheated at home. He also adds that complimentary wine, red roses, and personalized wines will make the guests feel special even if they have to adhere to the proper social distancing.
Riehle adds in MSN that customers can also see more of the meal kits, the usual heart shaped menu, and other packages such as cocktails, flowers, and even candy.
Suppose you want something productive for your special day. In that case, Riehle recommends searching for restaurants that offer virtual cooking classes that provide all the ingredients and instruct couples through the steps of making a signature meal at home.
Restaurant's Gimmick
Restaurants will still push through with different ways of attracting their customers but with a twist and, of course, adhering to the safety protocols. MSN notes that Washington DC's Immigrant Food, led by chef Enrique Limardo will add light my fire dessert box that costs 79 dollars for two people.
They add that the dessert box will feature hand torches to finish touches on Belgian chocolate cake, crema Catalina, DIY s'mores, and brie cheese.
Yahoo! News shares that Toro Toro in Miami, Florida, executive chef Jean Delgado will offer Toro Toro Take away that features a five-course tasting menu that costs 99 dollars per person. They add that the takeaway will replicate the one that is available in the restaurant.
Because of the terror COVID-19 has caused, the restaurant industry is gravely affected, which is evident in the change in how Valentine's day will be celebrated this year. Because of this, we can't wait to go back to the normal state or operations of these establishments.
Related article: This Valentine's Day, You Can Get Married at Dunkin' Donuts Drive Thru!
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