SHOWCASING OUR COMMUNITY OF SUPPLIERS

We’ve been focusing on how this latest shutdown has affected restaurateurs, but it’s time to shine a light on the suppliers who are also feeling the pinch now that dine-in service has been restricted for the next two weeks here in BC.

One of those suppliers is Jenice Yu of @freshideasstarthere (also known by its clever acronym FISH), which supplies award-winning restaurants across Vancouver like @askforluigi, @savio_volpe, @stemjapanese and @uglydumpling.ca with an array of premium, sustainable and locally sourced seafood products.

When the latest restrictions were announced last Monday, it coincided with what is always a big order day in advance of the Easter Weekend. When news broke, FISH had already delivered to more than 10 restaurants and caterers but quickly pivoted to allow those outlets the choice to keep or return the products, which some did — especially those without a patio.

“It turned into a crazy day for us, but at the end of the day a lot of restaurants were so grateful that we did that,” she says.

Her message? Focus on local by ordering take-out by ordering directly from your favourite restaurant or take advantage of patio dining possibilities at restaurants that offer it.

“The money you spend on local businesses helps support families and individuals who contribute to our community,” she says.

Despite the latest lockdown, Jenice remains optimistic about the future.

“Our industry is resilient — there are so many good people with so much passion keeping it alive,” she says. “At the end of this tunnel will be a day when we will all be able to sit together to wine and dine like we used to!”

Stand tall. Stay strong. Show love. Support local.