Since the reopening of the dining rooms of the restaurants, where the reception capacity remains at 50%, happiness can be read on the masked faces of the customers. On the side of the owners and managers of establishments, it is rather faces filled with uncertainties and fears that we recognize.

The recovery of the restaurant sector, thanks to the reopening of dining rooms on January 31, is going relatively well under the circumstances. The regulars are back and do not hesitate to show their vaccination passport, wear face coverings and respect other appropriate health measures. Some even feel safe thanks to these measures.

The Convoy in Quebec

However, some restaurateurs in Quebec City were unlucky. At the same time as this reopening, scheduled for the same week as the start of the Carnival, this event where tourists abound in the city, a convoy of demonstrators was organized for the weekend.

This last event, directly or indirectly related to the major demonstration that took place in Ottawa the previous week, changed the plans of some tourists coming from outside. These usually stay longer in town and spend more in hotels and restaurants in the capital. This time they canceled their visit, leaving restaurateurs empty-handed.

Fortunately, all hopes are allowed for next weekend. It will be another Carnival weekend in addition to the Super Bowl on Sunday night and Valentine's Day on Monday.

Mistrust

As we can see, the industry is still fragile and restaurateurs still feel that sword of Damocles hanging over their heads.

Most fear that they will have to close their doors again in the coming months, as the virus and its variants have probably not yet said their last word.

Distrust is on everyone's lips in the face of future government and public health decisions.
Faced with so many uncertainties and fears, passion is gradually lost and fatigue increases. Yo-yoing is hard on employers, employees, suppliers and owners' bank accounts!

Living with the virus

Some European countries and now some Canadian provinces have abolished the vast majority of health measures. We hear more and more often about “living with the virus”. It is probably the most cherished expression in the eyes of restaurateurs.

If it is applied in Quebec in the coming months, that would mean that another closure would be ruled out. Or at least, while requiring the vaccine passport at the entrance to the dining room, the capacity could be increased to 100%.

Will we be able to afford it soon recognizing that hospital capacity remains extremely fragile?