Thousands of service industry staff have been laid off due to the coronavirus pandemic, and have been forced to suddenly learn the complexities of our country’s unemployment system.
Here are some of our favorite businesses who have pivoted from working to feed their customers, to helping feed employees as well. Absolute industry heroes.
Also, if you are not in the service industry, sick of making food at home, and you’re looking for some awesome take-out, we encourage you to patronize these places that have shown their dedication to their industry in this time of crisis.
Updated: Monday, March 30, 2020
As this situation changes, I’m sure the deals will vary as these businesses continue to adapt to the unfolding events.
Old Thousand
1000 E 11th St., Austin, TX
Old Thousand, home to some of the best Asian-fusion in Austin, has been offering a variety of different discounts to service industry workers. This week they started offering 20 free meals per day for those out-of-work.
The Brisket Fried Rice here is unreal, and the Buddha’s delight, Kung Pao cauliflower, and Mapo eggplant are fantastic vegan options. When they open back up again, I highly recommend dining in. They did a great job with their atmosphere, and their service is amazing.
Baton Creole
1016 E 6th St, Austin
One of the best food-truck meals I’ve ever had in this city is the Cajun Poutine from Baton Creole.
Baton Creole is now offering “Pay It Forward Plates”. For every $10 contribution they receive, they’ll prepare a full meal, including sides, and give it to someone out of work in the service industry, or a hungry medical worker in need.
Lets’s come together as a community, help our employees get paid during the crisis, and help feed the heroes who are keeping things running while we weather this unfortunate outbreak!.
Just send an email to info@batoncreole.com with your first and last name and the number of “Pay It Forward Plates” you want to purchase and we will send you an invoice via square.
Baton Creole Facebook Page
Pizzeria Grata
4415 Menchaca Rd., Austin
Pizzeria Grata Austin has teamed up with LiftedSpirits.org, an Austin based non-profit that helps the service industry in this time of need. As part of their Pay It Forward program, they are offering 50% off to service industry workers and 50% off for first responders and medical workers.
Update: Pizzeria Grata is also organizing free pizzas to SI members who have lost their jobs through their Pay It Forward program.
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Vic and Al’s
2406 Manor Rd, Austin
From the creators of Patrizi’s on Manor Road, pop-up Vic and Al’s is providing 15 minute time slots (max 5 guests per slot) to grab a free hot meal to go and bottles of wine.
Parkside
301 E 6th St, Austin
Parkside on Sixth Street is offering 50% off for all service industry staff. To place a to-go order, head to the Parkside website or call them up at 512.474.9898.
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We will try to keep this list updated as we learn more about different businesses that are finding creative ways to give back to their industry during the coronavirus crisis.
For now, stay at home and flatten the curve with these beauties, and when we can decrease the social distancing, go in and check these places out!