Let’s help local businesses by dining out

We’ve been asked to do many things in recent months: stay home, home school, wear masks, keep apart and wash our hands, to name but a few.

And now we’re being called to action again. But this time to dine out to help the hospitality industry get back on its feet after being hit for six by the lockdown.

As far as sacrifices go, this one is most definitely our favourite. After spending lots of time cooped up indoors eating our own half-baked sourdough and soggy souffle, eating out will be a welcome change. So, we will be backing the Eat Out to Help Out scheme when it starts next month and urge you to do the same.

It’s not the most imaginatively titled initiative, but the idea – to help our high streets by supporting local eateries – is one we fully support.

We understand some people may not be able to eat out right now, but if you can do your bit to keep businesses open and support jobs in the Bracknell area, then please do.

Here’s what you need to know about the scheme:

• It is running every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday between 3 and 31 August.
• Eat out on these days at a participating restaurant, pub, or cafe, and you can get 50% off food and non-alcoholic drinks up (booze not included) to the value of £10 per person if you eat or drink in.
• The discount is applied straight away – no filling out of forms or waiting for refunds.
• You can take advantage of it as many times as you like.
• There’s no minimum spend and you don’t have to order food to be eligible, for example a £3 coffee would cost £1.50 under the scheme.
• A website will be up and running by 31 July giving you a list of eateries taking part in the scheme.

If you’re keen to take advantage of the scheme, always check that the venue is taking part before you order – to avoid any nasty surprises when the bill arrives.

Remember that many eateries can only serve a limited number of diners right now and ask that customers book ahead. If you do make a reservation and can’t make it, let the venue know. No-shows cost businesses money, and things are tough in the hospitality industry.

Even before the pandemic, many food outlets, especially restaurants, were finding it challenging. Between 2018 and 2019 almost 1,000 restaurants disappeared from UK high streets. (Overall numbers fell from 27,189 to 26,265. Source: Statista).

If we want to have a thriving shopping centre and a warm neighbourhood buzz, it’s up to us to support it.