When you visit a local restaurant, you support fellow community members and boost the area's economy. Restaurants took a major hit in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, so it's more important than ever to support your local food service establishments and ensure they have the resources to thrive. Whether you're dining out for dinner, lunch, or brunch, here are a few ways to support local restaurants.

How to Support Local Restaurants

1. Go for an Additional Meal

Many people develop certain habits around dining out. For instance, they may limit their restaurant trips to Sunday brunch or an occasional dinner. 

One way to support your favorite establishment is to stop by for an additional meal, perhaps one that's outside of your normal dining-out routine. If you're accustomed to restaurant dinners, go for lunch or brunch instead, and you'll have the chance to experience new menu items among a different crowd.

2. Order Delivery or Takeout

Many restaurants will bring food directly to your front door either through their own delivery service or a third-party delivery provider. This is an ideal way to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of home, especially if you have health concerns that might make it risky to venture out. 

You can often choose contactless delivery to minimize your exposure to others. Another option is to order takeout and stop by the restaurant to pick it up. 

3. Give Gift Cards

Purchasing gift cards is an excellent way to support a restaurant, as it increases profit margins, grows the customer base, and helps encourage repeat visits. While gift cards make excellent holiday presents, they can be given during any time of the year. The next time a friend or family member has a birthday, retirement, graduation, or another event, consider a gift card for both their own enjoyment and for the continued support of a local restaurant.

Zappone's Italian Bistro is a favorite restaurant of countless diners in the Gilbert, AZ, area. They offer a full menu of delicious Italian food, including lunch, brunch, dinner, and desserts. They offer a truly authentic Italian dining experience, with handcrafted dishes that are made to order and unavailable at bigger chain restaurants. Call (480) 218-2338 to place an Italian takeout order, or visit them online to browse their menu.