It is with great relief that restaurants see tourists arriving like a whirlwind in the different regions of Quebec. Already, even if the summer season has not started, there is movement everywhere in Quebec and that seems enough to give hope to our restaurateurs.
Over the past two summers, attendance has been rather modest due to health restrictions and the cancellation of major festivals. Let's not forget that Americans could not cross the border without showing a whole series of tests and proof against COVID. Same thing with Europeans.
It has been several months since these restrictions fell and it was enough for the tourist industry to see the return of visitors. This affluence was also felt in restaurants.
Homeowners are finally looking to the future with optimism, feeling that downtown streets are alive again.
It was the Easter weekend that gave the signal, when our neighbors to the south or Ontario resumed their tourist visits. Quebecers also visited relatives and friends from other regions, leading to significant traffic at the doors of restaurants.
Several establishments were full and, elsewhere, people were queuing outside waiting for a place.
Now that spring is well underway in Quebec and summer is upon us, Quebec cities are putting the finishing touches to the preparations for their tourist attractions. Large-scale shows, street entertainment, festivals, all means are good to attract customers who will spend in hotels, shops and restaurants.
A vibrant city is the secret to success for many restaurateurs and it's exactly what they need after two years of pandemic restrictions.
