Labor
As Democratic aid bill gives $25 billion to restaurants, industry says it’s a ‘strong step,’ but more will be needed
MarketWatch 3/3
National Restaurant Association opposes $15 minimum wage, which no longer looks on track to become part of big relief package.
‘Strangely emotional’: Newly vaccinated Bay Area restaurant workers talk mixed feelings
SFGATE 3/2
For many Bay Area residents working in high-risk environments such as restaurants and grocery stores — a recent UCSF study found that food workers are at the highest risk of death from COVID-19 among working age Californians — this news came as a huge relief. Especially in light of the potential reopening of indoor dining coming to San Francisco this week. But actually managing to nab a vaccination appointment was no walk in the park.
Food Industry Policy
Why Restaurants Need Federal Aid, and Sooner than Later
QSR Magazine 3/3
Some operators aren’t sure business will ever return to normal.
Bay Area restaurant workers are getting vaccinated ahead of indoor dining. But safety concerns remain
San Francisco Chronicle 3/3
Workers and owners agree that masks will be part of the restaurant uniform for many months to come since it’s unknown whether vaccinated people can still spread the coronavirus. With many restaurant workers living with unvaccinated family members and friends, they still want to be cautious at work — and some are worried diners will become even more relaxed about masking as vaccines become common.
On the Side
Berkeley restaurant’s $266-weed-and-food pairing is a Bay Area first
Marin Independent Journal 3/2
In an effort to shed its stuffy image and push the boundaries of food service during SIP, the restaurant at the Claremont Club & Spa is taking food pairings to new highs, literally.
S.F.’s only Krispy Kreme shutters, plus other Bay Area restaurant closures
San Francisco Chronicle 3/2
As part of our ongoing reporting on the impact of the pandemic on local businesses, here is a running list of Bay Area restaurants that have permanently closed as of March 2.