BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — If you've ever been to New Vintage Grill on a Saturday or Sunday morning for brunch, you've likely had to wait for a table. Now, the locally owned-and-operated restaurant is having to adapt to an entirely new business model.
The owners, Jed and Melissa Larson, are reminding the community of how many people you're helping when you support local.
“We were able to keep our entire kitchen staff which is very helpful. Um, I know some other restaurants aren’t in the same boat... it’s a struggle out there right now," Jed said. “I mean, that’s 35 different families to feed.”
“It’s heartbreaking what’s going on and everyone’s lives are being affected by this. And I just wanted to do my part as much as I can,” Ashleigh Hutchings, a regular customer and former employee, said.
Larson said their sales are down by about 50%. To try and beat that slump in sales, they're offering daily deals and specials when customers order takeout or delivery. And often, they sell out.
“We originally wanted to be dine-in only and we never even did curbside service or even delivery or anything like that. We wanted people to come in and enjoy us," Jed said. “The community has been... I mean honestly, I feel like I wanna tear up. Because it’s been very rewarding to live in Bakersfield and have the type of commitment to supporting local and being a part of Bakersfield. We’ve seen customers who have never even been to New Vintage Grill come and try us for the first time because they know we’re a local family just trying to make it.”
Past breakfast specials have included biscuits and gravy and a bottle of champagne for $12, and past lunch specials have included a Caribbean chicken sandwich and bottled beer or non-alcoholic beverage for $10.
To find more information about their daily specials and hours, you can find them on Facebook or Instagram. You can also place online orders through their website.
