Dining Out In Covid-19 Times

By: Marissa Rainey

Going to a restaurant in the Covid-19 pandemic is different but you can still enjoy a meal out. It's important to look at what a restaurant is doing to keep its customers and staff safe. I went to Manuel's Tavern, a popular local restaurant in Poncey-Highland recently to see how they were responding to the pandemic.

Megan Maloof, daughter of owner Brian Maloof, sat with me to explain their changes. When asked about customer safety, Maloof told me, ¨People really like the social distance inside, because we have every other booth closed down, and tables are spaced out¨. I also asked her about how she maintains outgoing customer service, she replied, ¨ It's really just making sure they know that the food is made with so much love. I also roller skate to deliver food on the patio¨.

I asked Maloof if there was anything that the restaurant might continue after quarantine. ¨ We will definitely keep the cleaning policies because it's just safer even without Covid-19. I think we'll also keep our little patio out here.¨

I sat outside when I ordered my food. Manuel´s has set up tents, which kept us dry from the rain. Our servers were wearing masks and gloves. It's obvious that they take their customers´ safety very seriously. Besides the PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), Manuel´s has signs that remind customers of social distancing. I asked Megan Maloof to tell me what her customers have said is most important to them while eating out right now. She said, ¨ They tell me they have the masks and social distancing are a priority.¨

Manuel´s currently has a limited menu but many great options are available. They also recently resumed their popular brunch on weekends.

I think we can all agree that Manuel's Tavern is doing all that they can to keep their customers happy and safe at the same time. Plus, their food is delicious!