As a restaurant guide and worldwide resource serving millions online, HappyCow considers businesses to be more than just listings on a map. They are the entire foundation of our community – the spirit of HappyCow and of what brings our members together worldwide. Amidst the restrictions and temporary shutdowns brought about by COVID-19, we’re on the forefront of the struggle for businesses to survive through this time. We know how hard it’s been for many restaurants to make ends meet, and we’re here to try and offer support. Today we’re bringing you 5 ways to be an active advocate for restaurants you love in your community, including ways to help out without dishing out any cash.
Do you have more ways to support local restaurants right now? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below or on social media.
1. Order Take-Out or Delivery
This is the most obvious and easy win-win option; whether ordering directly from a particular restaurant, or through DoorDash, Deliveroo, or UberEats. Ordering take-out, delivery, or curb-side pick-up is a great way to safely buy a meal from your favourite business. Many restaurants on HappyCow are now marked with “Take-Out” and “Delivery” icons, making it easier to find vegan choices nearby. If you’re unsure whether your favorite spot is offering take-away right now, try calling them or messaging on Facebook; they’ll be delighted to hear from you and know you’re interested in making an order. In addition, may kitchens have implemented stricter sanitation and packaging standards right now, for greater health safety and ease-of-mind.
2. Write a Restaurants Review or Recommendation
If you have some extra time at the moment while staying home, it’s a great opportunity to write reviews for favorite restaurants you’ve visited in the past. Ratings and reviews go a long way in helping to support a business’s reputation and longevity, and your kind feedback can really mean a lot. Whether on HappyCow or another platform, contributing your experience is an easy, free way to show support.
3. Post on Social Media
Like writing a restaurant review, posting on social media is another great way to show solidarity within your community. Share where you’ve ordered take-out / delivery from recently, post a photo of a meal you had, highlight your favorite local business(s), or post some reviews directly to your inner circle. This is a fun way to share memorable experiences and let other people know about available options. It doesn’t matter whether you have a global following, or are sharing with your close friends and family; everybody loves good food (and an opportunity to show support!)
Be sure to also tag @happycow and #HappyCow on social media. On Instagram, tag us sharing take-out options from your favorite vegan restaurant(s), and we’ll repost to our Stories!
4. Buy a Gift Voucher
Even if eating-out isn’t an option right now, it will be again soon! In the spirit of future dining plans, now is a great time to buy a gift card / voucher – either for you future self, or as an offering to someone you care about. Putting your money into businesses now, when they need it most, is a perfect way to invest in a future meal – not to mention it’s something yummy to look forward to! Contact businesses directly to find out if they offer this option.
5. Help Owners Help Themselves on HappyCow
Did you know that business owners or managers of a business can schedule announcements directly on their HappyCow listings? This let customers know about special changes to business hours, new take-out, delivery, or curb-side pick-up options, or special ordering options on their website! If you are an owner, or are in touch with one who hasn’t claimed their business yet, it’s not too late. Simply look for the “Claim This Business” link under photos on the listing page (website only) and follow the instructions. If you aren’t a business owner yourself, pass the word along to a friend who is!
Do you have more advice on how to support restaurants right now? Share your tips and experiences with us in the comments below or on social media.
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Featured image credit: Good Plans Cafe, New Jersey, USA
As always, stay safe, and we look forward to supporting many more dining adventures in the future!
