Pune: Low Turnout At The Dine-In Restaurants And Hotels
Mehab Qureshi
Pune, October 7, 2020: Many memes and jokes were making rounds on social media during the lockdown, stating what will people eat once restaurants open again after the lockdown is lifted. Although eateries and restaurants in Pune had started takeaway services, it was assumed after six months of the gap, the restaurant business will pick-up once the footfalls rise. However, in reality, the scenario was a little different. Even though the dine-in services have resumed in Pune restaurants from October 5 onwards, it received a low response from citizens.
Many restaurateurs have also expressed their opinion that it is better to provide takeaway services rather than dine-in, as already there is a manpower shortage, as only a limited number of employees are allowed to work at a time due to strict government guidelines; additionally, there are fewer footfalls.
The state government has allowed the restaurants to operate in the state with 50 percent staff capacity. However, the first day observed an overall limited response. With some restaurants going all out and others playing the waiting game.
Wadeshwar, located at the Fergusson College road, well-known for South Indian cuisine, is the go-to hub for Puneites. This place has a foot pedal installed, and an attendant who recorded the temperature of patrons’.To ensure, social distancing every table was arranged at a distance of a minimum of three feet.
At Farmaaish lounge and bar, located in Viman Nagar,-Tables were set up on the entrance as a barrier where every visitor’s temperature was recorded. All the food was covered with cloches, the staff wore face masks and shields, the menu was accessed via a mobile phone. “We have ensured that customers are only seating at a 6 feet distance. As we are facing a financial crunch, the AC seating has been stopped for a while,” said Sandeep Salian, Co-owner of the bar.
Vaishali and Roopali, one of the most popular restaurants in Pune amongst the student community, were observed closed for dine-in.”We are facing a manpower crunch, as most of our cooks and staff members are from northern states of India and the trains are not functional yet. Therefore, we have decided to resume dine-in from October 12,” Shashendra Shetty, owner of Roopali told Punekarnews.in.
Sharing his thoughts about the permission and other concerns, Ganesh Shetty, president of Pune Restaurant and Hoteliers Association (PRAHA), said, “We welcome the decision of the Pune Municipal Corporation. We are facing a staff crunch. Many restaurant owners have decided to keep the eateries open for takeaway until the situation becomes normal.”
Follow and connect with us on WhatsApp Facebook Twitter Linkedin YouTube Instagram
