The pandemic has had a profound impact on the restaurant industry and Black-owned restaurants have been no exception. However, in the face of this adversity, many Black restaurateurs have shown remarkable resilience and innovation. They have adapted to new trends in dining and found new ways to connect with their customers. In this article, we will explore how Black-owned restaurants are being adapted to post-pandemic dining trends.
One of the biggest trends during the pandemic was the rise of takeout and delivery. Restaurants had to pivot their business models to accommodate this new demand and, with most people still hesitant to dine in, many establishments, including Black-owned restaurants, have had to continue to adapt – ramping up their takeout and delivery options and offering customers a convenient and safe way to enjoy their food.
Some restaurants have even gone a step further and launched their own delivery services. Sweet Chick, a Black-owned restaurant known for its soul food and fried chicken, survived the pandemic by pivoting to takeout and delivery services, as well as offering a new meal kit program. The restaurant, which has locations in New York, Los Angeles, and Queens, began offering meal kits that included ingredients and instructions for customers to make their own fried chicken and waffles at home. Additionally, Sweet Chick partnered with local organizations to provide meals for essential workers and those in need. By adapting its menu and services to meet the needs of customers during the pandemic, Sweet Chick has been able to continue serving its loyal fanbase and remain a popular post-pandemic destination for comfort food.
Another post-pandemic trend is the rise of outdoor dining. With indoor seating still restricted in many cities, restaurants owners have had to get creative with their outdoor spaces. Black-owned restaurants have been no exception, with many creating beautiful and welcoming outdoor dining areas.
One Black-owned restaurant that managed to survive the pandemic is The Grey in Savannah, Georgia. The restaurant was founded in 2014 and has gained national recognition for its innovative menu and unique setting in a restored Greyhound bus station. During the pandemic, The Grey adapted by offering a takeout menu, meal kits, and outdoor dining options. The restaurant also partnered with local organizations to provide meals for frontline workers and the needy. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, The Grey has continued to receive rave reviews for its food and service.
In addition to adapting to new trends in dining, Black-owned restaurants have also been finding new ways to connect with their customers. With social media playing an increasingly important role in marketing and customer engagement, many Black owners have been using these platforms to reach out to their customers and build relationships with them.
On its website, Krab Queenz, in Houston, Texas, calls itself a “social media-driven seafood restaurant.” The unique eatery survived the pandemic by pivoting to online sales and expanding its social media presence. The restaurant began offering its popular seafood boils in take-home kits and partnered with food delivery services to reach customers who were staying at home. Krab Queenz also utilized Instagram and other social media platforms to showcase its menu and engage with customers through contests and giveaways. By adapting to the changing market and leveraging its online presence, Krab Queenz was able to weather the storm of the pandemic and continue serving its loyal customers.
Black-owned restaurants are being adapted to post-pandemic dining trends in innovative and exciting ways. They are pivoting their business models to meet the demands of the new normal in dining, whether it’s through ramping up their takeout and delivery options, creating beautiful outdoor dining spaces, or finding new ways to connect with their customers. And they are also using their platform to give back to their communities and make a positive impact in the world – a commitment that might not have seemed so essential in the pre-pandemic era.
As consumers, we have the power to support these Black-owned restaurants and help them to thrive in the post-pandemic world. By ordering takeout and meal kits, dining outdoors, and following them on social media, we can help to build their brand and spread the word about the amazing food and experiences they have to offer. So, let’s celebrate these restaurants, and let’s continue to support them as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the new normal in dining.
