In the wake of the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak across the world, perhaps the hardest hit industry after travel and hotellery is the restaurant industry. In Canada, blanket measures to restrict the transmission of Covid-19 have caused many restaurants and businesses big and small to close their doors, lay off staff or for those teetering on the bleeding edge even before this crisis, to shutter completely.

Up until March 22nd, 2020, the Quebec government allowed restaurants to allow diners to sit-in and order so long as the restaurant kept it at 50% capacity. As of March 23rd, more drastic measures were put in place to limit the risk of exposure to patrons and staff by only allowing take-out and delivery.

And it’s not just regulations imposed directly on the restaurant industry that are causing major issues. New regulations discouraging foot traffic and public gatherings delivered a devastating and in some cases, final, blow to restaurant owners and staff who could have otherwise worked through the crisis. With no end in sight, It’s no wonder that many establishments resigned to close during these difficult times.

But that’s not to say Montrealers are without options. As always, we’re blessed with an abundance of quality and choice in Montreal when it comes to dining, and although that has taken a hit in recent weeks, many of our local favorites have adapted and continue to provide customers with convenient and safe access to their menu.

Here are just a few great neighborhood eats offering pick-up and delivery services in and around Montreal:

Olé Tapas – Offering Spanish tapas and produce in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue

FreshMTL – Healthy smoothies/juice bar with meal prep options in VSL and Laval

Pizza Nikkos – Class neighborhood pizza spot in Dollard-des-Ormeaux

Pizzalinni da Francesca – Long standing family establishment in the West Island

Molly’s Best – Organic granola & cookie delivery across Canada

Mrs. Meady’s – Our pets need to eat too!

Cunningham’s Pub – Vibrant Irish pub in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue

Deli La Trattoria – Classic deli with homemade offerings and catering in Kirkland

Falafel St. Jacques – Quality middle eastern vegetarian cuisine (several locations)

Chez Ma Tante – Classic hot dog establishment in Montreal North

Boucherie Marchigiani – Butcher & Italian deli in Lasalle

Tacos Frida – Authentic Mexican Cantina in St Henri

Aida Distribution – Distributor of Food and Drink products to Restaurants and Convenience stores

In the same vein, grocery stores and restaurant suppliers are adapting to these new realities as well. While grocers are listed as part of the essential businesses permitted to stay open during the Covid-19 situation, that’s not to say it’s business as usual for anyone involved. Many chains are implementing reduced hours, capping the number of clients allowed inside, and installing hand-washing stations at the entrance, among many other safety measures to protect employees and shoppers. Suppliers are also working overtime to meet the increased demand for certain products, as the news of a potential shutdown sent a wave of shoppers into stores to stock up on “essentials”.

Needless to say, we could be in it for the long haul without a clear view of the horizon. Despite the significant disruption this caused for many businesses, Montreal is adapting and those that are still open will continue to do so whilst doing the best they can to make sure we all stay safe during this tumultuous times.

Joshua Jung