Let’s show some love for those who put their lives on the line for us — those beautiful back-of-housers putting in the prep, keeping one eye on the pass and pumping out the plates.

A recent Instagram post from our pals at Burdock & Co said it best:

“Good lord we’re lucky to have this team... great service doesn’t start when the doors open, it starts with all of us, this little family, taking care of each other, putting in the good work, making sure we’re all safe and looked after in strange times. Sometimes, it’s the things you don’t see: Amazing staff meals. Wearing masks during prep, not just for service. ‘90s ballads and lots of laughs. Recognizing all the hard work and effort these legends put in. We’re really lucky to work with this crew.”

Some stories of the sort of against-all-odds survivalism being exhibited by chefs and restaurateurs across North America in the face of an inevitable winter downturn and potential second wave of COVID-19 that could necessitate more lockdowns in a great read from Eater’s Nick Mancall-Bitel.

It details how hospitality industry veterans like Deborah VanTrece, Chef and Co-Owner of Atlanta’s Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours are dealing with the day-to-day pressures and added expenses of providing safer spaces for staff and guests in a desperate attempt to squeeze the summer season for all the revenue they can.

Read more:

Big cheers to Halifax’s Bar Kismet, which marked its three-year anniversary yesterday!

The small family owned and operated bar and restaurant on Agricola St. has made itself a local favourite thanks to its menu of inventive cocktails, thoughtfully curated wine, fresh seafood and handmade pasta.

Earlier this summer it was feted by Canada’s 100 Best with the No. 20 spot on its prestigious annual ranking.

Congratulations, team. We raise a glass to you on a big milestone in a year that has seen more than its fair share of spilled milk. Long may you run.