HAMDEN, Conn — The Nor’easter has not just homeowners digging out but local businesses as well. Outdoor dining has been important to restaurants with limited capacity during the pandemic. The near foot of snow on the ground has them digging out their outdoor seating and finding even more ways to reach customers.
"Some people are not ready to dine inside so they come prepared," said Drew McLachlan, General Manager of The Stand.
The Stand in Branford has been prepared for outdoor seating all season. This nor’easter has them clearing off the patio.
"This won’t be that bad unless it’s really cold, blowing wind. It will be comfortable out here as long as you’re dressed for the weather," said McLachlan.
Although they had to take down their heated tent for the season. They are building a shelter above the patio to trap in some more warmth. They are also turning to a local delivery service to bring your favorite food to your doorstep.
"We are really focused on the local independently owned restaurants and providing this delivery service is really giving them an additional revenue stream," said Lauren Ashe of Shoreline Menus.
The delivery service works with over 60 restaurants from Old Lyme to Branford. They use a shared pool of drivers and have waived many fees associated with larger delivery services to provide the largest profits possible for your favorite restaurants.
You can order from any of the restaurants and see daily promotions here.
"We are currently talking to a lot of restaurants in East Lyme, Mystic and the Stonington areas too so we are expanding rapidly," said Ashe. "It is not a fix all but I really think that we are helping them survive."
Over 600 restaurants have closed during the pandemic. Governor Ned Lamont has heard their calls for help and says he is looking into more financial support. Something the restaurants hope is not in the form of another large loan.
"Aid directly to restaurants is a big thing especially in the winter," said McLachlan. "Even with the vaccine, the next two or three months will be fairly difficult."
Check out upcoming events and promotions at The Stand on the website here.