‘The Fighter Is Going to Win’

Jon Taffer is scared for restaurants and terrified for bars. 

He cautioned that when restaurants can reopen for dine-in service, they will have to face the bittersweet reality of less seating capacity and less sales--he estimates as much as 30 percent--due to social distancing practices and guest apprehension.

"They have to expect 30 percent less seats and 30 percent less revenue when they open their doors," he told Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine.

But the star of Bar Rescue does feel those who are using this time wisely to regroup will have the best chance for coming back strong. 

"The fighter is going to win, right now."

He suggests owners and managers take a two-prong approach: a consumer focus  and a business-forward mindset.

On the consumer side, restaurants need to be more engaged with customers than ever, he urged.

"You can grow brand equity by supporting your community and engaging customers now."

He said if they are able to pivot to a curbside…