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Local restaurants, particularly independent ones, are some of the biggest casualties of the ongoing pandemic, given multiple shutdowns and continuing restrictions. According to Yelp, 60% of small businesses, including restaurants, have permanently closed because of the pandemic. Aside from limited indoor dining, local restaurants also must grapple with the exorbitant fees charged by delivery companies and changes in grocery shopping habits.Â
Given that the cost of living in the St. Louis area is fairly reasonable, the region has traditionally been a haven for independent restaurateurs. A highly supportive community helps to bolster creative individuals. Â
âSt. Louis really does a terrific job of supporting local restaurateurs,â said Josh Allen, the Jewish founder and owner of Companion Bakery, which has two area locations.Â