While there were no known cases of COVID-19 in Washington County as of March 23, the precautionary order by Governor Janet Mills that all restaurants and bars close dine‑in facilities has had a devastating impact on area restaurants. From Machias to Calais, owners are reporting that the financial impact is huge and that the uncertainty over when the order will be lifted a source of concern.
     In Perry, New Friendly Restaurant owner Robert Patterson had been planning to close for a week to remodel. Closing the dining room, however, brings more challenges. Patterson observes that the closure not only affects him and his employees but also the customers. "I think having to close is really tough, because we are almost like a social gathering for many of our older folks."
     In Calais, Yancy's Restaurant has also closed. Owner Sherry Johnson had originally intended to remain open for drive‑through and take-out customers, but she decided that closing completely was a wiser choice. "We had to make a difficult decision. We felt that there just wouldn't be enough customers without our dining room to even cover the payroll," she explains.
     Pam Francis, owner the Old Sow Grill in Eastport, had originally closed in accordance with the governor's order. Since reopening for take-out service only in response to customer requests, Francis observes, "There has been a lot of interest in our having take-out meals available, though so far we haven't had much business."
     In Machias, Pat's Pizza and the Bluebird Ranch Family Restaurant have continued with take-out service. Bill Burke, owner at Pat's Pizza, puts things in perspective, noting that the impact is not just on the owner but also the staff and community. "We had to cut our workforce significantly. We have 35 employees, and we are down to seven," states Burke. He observes, "Thoughts off the top of my head go first to my employees who are trying to pay bills and keep themselves afloat. We want as business owners to provide services to the community while keeping our workers, patrons and families safe."
     Hospitality Maine estimates that more than 500 people are employed in the hospitality industry in Washington County. According to information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 50 restaurants and other eateries employing approximately 526 individuals. With dining rooms closed, restaurant owners laid-off most staff, with some reporting that the only employees left providing take-out service were the owners and one or two employees.
     A universal concern for the owners is the ability to meet expenses while the business is closed. "Financially, it is a huge hit. We still have a lot of expenses even when we are closed. We are doing what we can to reduce them, but we can't get rid of them completely" explains Johnson. Francis agrees, noting, "Financially, it is a big hit. The uncertainty over how long this may last is making it difficult to make decisions."
     While the strain on the restaurant owners and staff is wearing, all are as concerned about what it means for the community and their customers. Burke emphasizes, "Right now we have that window of hope that this will pass in the 15 days that have been mandated; if, however, it goes longer, we are concerned for people who are shut in, people unable to work, food supplies, money available to survive. I guess we will cross that bridge as it happens."
     In the meantime, several owners indicate that they will do what they can for their communities, ranging from donating perishable foods to local food pantries or residents to donating pies to the local veterans' home.
     Bethany Foss, owner of the Bluebird Ranch Family Restaurant, summarizes what the other owners, in true Downeast spirit, shared. "I really appreciate all of our customers and look forward to when we can reopen and see you all again." Burke agrees, saying, "The community has been wonderful. We will continue to serve it as long as we can and try to have a positive outlook on the future."