With rising COVID-19 numbers, business owners are faced with ongoing obstacles to adjust. Now nearly 9 months since the first stay-at-home order, businesses are fighting to survive.
Hungry Hunter is a pretty well-known restaurant and is centrally located, but the manager told 23ABC they're used to seeing just about 280 guests on a weekend night. However, right now they’re only seeing about a third of that as recent guidelines have been put into place.
Erik Allen with Hungry Hunter said, "We have a lot of employees here that rely on tips, as well as the general public coming in to keep us in business. People are still coming in, but its not nearly the same frequency that we'd be able to do indoors."
Restaurants are facing more restrictions and a drop in revenue as the pandemic stretches on and COVID-19 cases spike. But Allen said they're trying to stay positive and adjust to the recent changes.
"Just have to stay happy. It’s all a mental process. It's been an adjustment that’s for sure, but we will always do what we need to and remain open as long as we possibly can."
Allen said although they haven’t had to lay off any employees, they have made cuts elsewhere.
"Our employees we have had to cut back on hours, But everyone’s remaining cheerful and happy to have a job for the most part."
Allen said the first time they were forced to move outdoors they mainly used the restaurant's patio seating, but this time they have expanded.
"This time with Thanksgiving coming up we decided to have this large tent out back, as well as our patio open."
And if anyone from the public decides to stop by and support this locally owned restaurant, you can’t miss the new tent, as it is located on the back parking lot next to the restaurant.
Allen said they've bought heaters to keep guests warm, and are following all safety protocols. However, if you'd rather eat in the comfort of your own home, take out is always an option.
They’re open for breakfast from 11 a.m. -3 p.m. And for dinner at 5 p.m.
