Calgary Restaurants & Businesses Are Already Closing For Good After COVID-19
Small and local businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic, and many are thinking they might not make it through. Already we're seeing some iconic businesses close in Calgary. Recently, a crown jewel in the city's food scene just closed for good and it could be just the start of something worse.
Since declaring a public health emergency, restaurants in Alberta aren't allowed to take patrons into their stores anymore. Having to either run on just takeout and delivery or close, many simply don't have the cash to keep going.
Tons of beloved restaurants are temporarily closed, and many think they might never open again.
The Midtown Kitchen & Bar in Calgary is closing its doors for good, after facing hardships caused by the pandemic.
After six years as a well-loved local supplier of great craft beer, they announced over social media on Tuesday, April 21 that COVID-19 and "difficult landlords" that they're unable to keep afloat.
"We want to thank everyone who has supported us over the years as we have had a great run and will miss many of you," they wrote on Instagram. "Here’s to new beginnings."
People flooded the comments with messages of support and disappointment.
"Very saddened to hear this," wrote one person. "Worrisome to see one of the biggest supporters of the Alberta craft beer scene forced out through no fault of their own.
The restaurant industry wasn't the only one hit hard by the pandemic. A month earlier, the Shakers Fun Centre also closed for good on Monday, March 9. The bumper car and arcade came to an end after 15 years in the community.
"I used to love going here, playing arcade games with the family. This is what we need to worry about now!!" wrote one fan on Instagram.
Great local shops and restaurants like the Ironwood Stage & Grill, Oak Tree Tavern, The Next Page Books and Coffeeshop, the Garage Sports Bar, and many more have shuttered their doors for now.
Meanwhile, other restaurants have been shut down by Alberta Health Services for breaking social distancing rules.
Three were closed just this month, including Roadking Wok N Grill, the Stonewall Pub, and the Van Gogh Grill & Bar.
Local businesses around the nation are also suffering with many stores in Toronto and Ottawa also announcing that they're closed for good.
But not all hope is lost — many are pivoting to delivery and take-out options, and business is still survivable for some.