Reema Shaver owns Bistango Martini Lounge in Downtown Spokane. It s a small space and she debated even re-opening at 25% capacity because it would be tough for her to cover her operational costs with such a limited number of guests being allowed in. Thursday’s announcement will have a real impact to their bottom line and it will allow them to bring back another employee.
“It was really hard, 25% was awful,” Shaver said “It was hard having guests wait outside for a table in the cold weather and on rainy days they just wouldn t wait or they would sit in their car. It was tough, but we got through it, and as I told you back then, I was just tired of complaining and I just said we re going to open. I was able to bring back three of my employees so I’m very grateful for that, and with 50%, I ll be able to bring back another employee.”
‘The band-aid we need’: Spokane restaurants push for 50% indoor dining capacity
Takeout orders remain the main source of income for many restaurants in Spokane. As they wait for updates from the state, some are pleading for a chance to reopen. Author: Brandon Jones (KREM) Updated: 12:52 PM PST January 21, 2021
SPOKANE, Wash. With COVID-19 restrictions on indoor dining still in place, several locally-owned restaurants are calling on Governor Jay Inslee to reevaluate current protocols.
The hospitality industry has had some of the hardest-hit businesses during this pandemic. Restaurants were allowed to reopen for indoor dining at one point but that came to a stop back in November.