The hospitality industry has had it tough over the last couple of years. And while public health measures are gradually lifting, the impacts of the pandemic will still be felt for some time. Whether you’re eager to get out and enjoy the city again, or you’re still more comfortable staying home and avoiding crowds, here are some ways you can help local food, beverage and entertainment businesses survive and thrive as we transition to living with COVID-19 in our community.
Choose local
Look for locally-owned independent restaurants, cafes, bars and activities. The
Visit Perth blog is packed with inspiration if you’re hunting for places you’ve never been before - from the best
pizza and
burger joints to
ice cream and gelato places and
wine bars!
Revisit the city
With so many people working from home, businesses in the CBD would love your visit. Plan a night in the city with dinner and drinks, or a day out for shopping and lunch. All City of Perth CPP carparks are currently offering
free night-time parking after 6pm, and you can also get
3-hour free parking on weekends and public holidays at certain locations
Book ahead
With density and capacity limits in place for many hospitality and entertainment venues, book ahead to avoid disappointment. If things change last-minute, give the venue as much notice as you can so they can fill your spot, and consider rescheduling rather than cancelling so you can enjoy the experience at a later date!
Avoid the crowds
Feeling hesitant about crowds? Take advantage of Perth’s great weather to dine
alfresco, and try going outside of peak times (like mid-week instead of on the weekend).
Order in
If you’re not comfortable being in busy public spaces right now, treat yourself to a takeaway meal from a business in your neighbourhood that you’ve never tried before. Ordering directly from the restaurant for pick-up or delivery ensures they benefit most (and might save you a few bucks too).
Give vouchers
Need a gift idea for someone’s birthday or special occasions like Mother’s Day? A gift voucher from a local business - whether it’s for a dinner out, a spa day or a group activity - is a great pick, supporting the business now while enabling the recipient to use it whenever they’d prefer.
Leave a positive review
Good feedback on Google or social media really helps venues out when other people are searching for services, so take a few minutes to leave some kind words about places you’ve been recently (or your long-time faves).
Bring patience
Understand that with illness and isolation causing staff shortages - plus supply chain issues exacerbated by recent flooding in the eastern states - things might not run as smoothly as usual. And when it comes to mask, vaccine and check-in requirements, staff are just following government directives in enforcing them. So, a bit of kindness and patience goes a long way as we all navigate out of the pandemic.
