Area restaurants adjust to COVID-19 mandates

Published by admin on Wed, 03/25/2020 - 10:39am

A handful of Hampton area restaurants remain open with adjusted times and operations after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds prohibited dining in at all Iowa businesses last Tuesday. GREG FORBES/HAMPTON CHRONICLE

By:

Greg Forbes

Publisher

Restaurants in the area are making the best out of a confusing situation.

Last week, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered all restaurants and bars be closed to in-house dining due to rising concerns of COVID-19 pandemic and related efforts to prohibit the spread of the virus. Restaurants with the capabilities were permitted to continue to operate, offering take out or delivery services only.

After taking time to regroup and plan, local establishments remained open to continue to serve food for take-out, drive-thru and delivery.

Newton Grotzinger, Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, said that he understands the gravity of the situation and urges customers and employees to follow government guidelines to contain the spread but said the ability to continue to support those establishments is vital to the community.

“I would encourage everyone to follow the government guidelines to contain the spread of COVID-19,” he said. “That said, we can support our local restaurants and convenience stores by picking up items or getting delivery.”

He added that many restaurants offer gift cards, and purchasing those now can help ensure business when restaurants are allowed to resume regular operation.

“This will put dollars in the bank for them immediately and provide you with a future opportunity to enjoy what they offer after this has passed,” he said.

Last week, the Chamber provided a list of food service establishments that remained open for carry out and delivery. Following are the establishments still serving food:

Drive-thru: McDonald’s (carry out available) and Hardee’s Delivery and carry out: Antojitos Mexicanos La Chozita, Restaurant La Amigita and Godfather’s Carry Out: B&C Kitchen, Dudley’s Corner, Hampton Senior Center, La Frontera Restaurant, Rustic Brew, Seven Stars, Subway, The Garage Tavern and Willies Sports Bar and the Hampton Country Club.

Grotzinger said community support will help businesses navigate the surrealistic nature of the current situation and allow them to continue to operate.

“Finally, please remember this can be a difficult time for businesses,” he said. “Any support, including prayer and encouragement, should be welcome.”