Manhattan residents, waitstaff and bartenders were hit hard by Mayor Bill de Blasio's order last week to close the city's restaurants by Tuesday morning, March 17. The move allowed takeout and delivery services, but no dining, in an effort to promote social distancing.
Through notices on stores windows, social media posts and emails, restaurateurs let their customers know that they were still there for them. One such communication, from Eli Zabar, owner of East Side shops and eateries, spoke for the sense of community that the coronavirus crisis has instilled throughout Manhattan.
"The COVID-19 Crisis has put our business and community into uncharted territory," he wrote in an email. "We are charged with the essential responsibility of maintaining an environment that is safe for both our employees and our customers ...
"For over 40 years, I have worked to build a loyal customer base that understands and values the no-compromise approach I take when it comes to food quality ... We believe that our commitment to health and safety combined with our focus on quality ensures further protection against contamination.
"As New York’s neighborhood grocer, I want to stay open so that you have access to food and ingredients that you have confidence in."
Zabar noted that grocery and prepared food orders can be placed for daily delivery: (212) 423-0192, (212) 423-0129 or homeshop@elizabar.com.