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Welcome back to Eater News. Here are some of the latest stories on how the novel coronavirus is affecting the restaurant scene in Seattle.
Frelard Tamales Offering Free Food for Those Impacted by COVID-19
This week, Frelard Tamales announced it will be offering free meals for those most impacted by the novel coronavirus. On its official website, the restaurant says that families who are missing school lunches, workers whose hours have been drastically cut, and anybody in general who has been affected economically by the COVID-19 outbreak can stop for a free meal during usual business hours, until Friday. In light of the statewide mandate that all dining rooms must close until March 31, Frelard Tamales has also adjusted its service to do deliveries on Mondays and Wednesdays between 5-9 p.m.
After Six Years, Roosevelt’s Craft Beer Destination Toronado Is Closing Permanently
Roosevelt’s craft beer specialist Toronado — the offshoot of a well-respected San Francisco classic — has decided to close its doors permanently, as first reported by Washington Beer Blog. An announcement on Facebook cited an “uncertain future” due to impacts over the novel coronavirus. The pub, which opened in 2014, was well-known for its extensive list of craft beer and whiskeys. Last March, Toronado Seattle’s original owner, Matt Bonney, died at the age of 45, leaving the bar in the care of his wife, Lynn, and his brother, Phil. In the new Facebook message, Phil mentioned that the next phase for Toronado’s legacy may be collaborations down the road with other breweries, including Urban Family, on a beer called “The Book of Bonney.”
Seattle Expands Loading Zones to Help Restaurants with Curbside Pickup
On Tuesday, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced some new measures that may make it easier for some restaurants to do curbside pickup. The city will now convert some on-street parking spaces into temporary loading zones, specifically in neighborhoods with a high concentration of restaurants. This effort will also focus on blocks that “do not otherwise have enough loading options,” according to a statement from the mayor’s office. The Seattle Department of Transportation selected the initial placement locations based on areas that have seen a reduction in paid parking traffic over the last several weeks. Restaurants can request a loading zone near their establishment by calling (206) 684-ROAD.
