Being able to pick up and take home craft cocktails from local mixologists has been one of the few bright spots of the last year — it’s also been a lifeline for small businesses, one of the creative ways independent, chef-driven restaurants have been able to keep afloat during COVID-19. On Monday, June 14th it will be ending — unless you can help.
Tune in on the BostonChefs Instagram Live tomorrow, Wednesday, June 2nd at 10:00am for Mass. Restaurants United’s press conference on the State House steps calling for a one-year extension. Hear from restaurant owners, chefs, and culinary teams and learn why this is critical for the survival of your favorite eateries and what you can do to help save these neighborhood-defining businesses and keep the community strong.
The list of speakers is still growing, but so far it includes:
- Emcee: Jody Adams – Porto, Trade and Saloniki, Boston / Cambridge
- Nancy Caswell – Brine, Oak & Rowan, Newburyport / Boston
- Nia Grace – Darryl’s Corner Bar and Kitchen, Boston Black Hospitality Coalition
- Bob Luz – President & Chief Executive Officer of Massachusetts Restaurant Association
When Massachusetts was placed under a state of emergency for COVID-19, restaurants were given special accommodations including the ability to offer cocktails-to-go and a (15%) cap on fees from food delivery apps like Uber Eats, Doordash and Grubhub which often impose burdensome fees (up to 30% for every order) on their restaurant partners. These costs are just too high for small businesses that are still trying to get back on their feet, especially while many diners aren’t quite ready to eat (and drink) indoors and restaurants are still relying on delivery to keep them going.
The Special Ordinances for Restaurants are set to expire on June 14th, when the state of emergency ends, this means, many of your small local spots need your help. If you’ve enjoyed Worden Hall‘s signature espresso martini on the couch, signed up for Spoke‘s Monthly Cocktail club subscription, or sipped Citrus & Salt‘s pre-mixed and oh-so-portable bevvies, tune in live tomorrow and find out what you can do to ensure restaurants can fully re-group after one of the toughest years on the books.
