THINK COLLABORATIVELY

An excerpt from a recent Facebook post by Margot Baloro (fourth from left), Operations Manager at @foragevancouver:

"Earlier this week someone asked me ‘What do you want your guests to know before they come in?’ It was a thoughtful question; reflecting on how restaurants are coping ... I answered that I wanted people to trust that we are following health orders, committed to keeping up to date on those orders, and reviewing them to best keep our staff, guests and business protected.

But honestly, there’s something else I want people to know. Speaking from my experience, and for the general industry:

Don’t ask for a reservation on Friday at 7 p.m. Everyone thinks that’s the best time to come, but let me tell you why it’s not. Right now there are a large amount of people out of work. Restaurants have to make hard decisions on staffing based on business hours.

If everyone goes out to dine on Fridays at 7 p.m. then they’re not coming on Monday or Tuesday, so restaurants have to make the tough decision to close those service periods. Come on a Wednesday or a Thursday. Come at 5:30 on Friday. Try brunch, or breakfast, or an early or late happy hour. Call the restaurant you want to support and ask them what time is ideal for their individual circumstances.

This is a time to think collaboratively. In a year that feels like changing your personal paradigms is just a task on your to-do list, throw caution to the wind! Do it safely and follow the rules, of course. Coming out to dine at a different time can still feel special. Chances are you’ll come across a very good deal, support some great human beings, and it won’t be as busy. You’ll have a great experience, and get more time to enjoy yourself."

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