In the restaurant and retail world, everything we once knew, has changed.
What used to make a great customer experience has been replaced with masks, gloves and packages left on an empty doorstep, sometimes with a thankful wave from behind the window.
The situation is ever-changing, fueled by the uncertainty around the pandemic but our local businesses are once again shifting their services, navigating new systems and reinventing themselves. Despite new restrictions to Winnipeg restaurants and bars, creative ideas are coming into play.
The Exchange District's Kings Head Pub has pivoted many times in 2020, with the latest launch offering in-house delivery and takeout. Order your favourite pub food and beverages to your home and they will be delivered by the same Kings Head staff who bring your food to your table.
The Park Theatre has brought back live music with a long list of upcoming shows and Halloween events through October. While shows may look very different than they did at this time last year, the Park Theatre has managed to showcase some memorable performances by offering a limited number of seating at tables in front of the stage.
Get it to go
Patent 5 Distillery trialed a cocktails-to-go program this spring, where your favourite gin and vodka creations were made weekly and available for pickup or delivery. They’ve now brought that program to local markets and expanded its offerings online.
Earlier this year, the roost revamped its menu and drink offerings (the queen of cocktails is always hard at work) and now the roost has announced a takeout option to combat shorter serving hours. If you still want to sip from your favourite treehouse on Corydon you’ll enjoy the new patio heaters installed to keep your toes warm while you sip on a cool beverage.
Grab your charcuterie to go from Nonsuch Beer as it has now launched a taproom pick-up menu online for all its food items.
Pay it forward with Feast Cafe Bistro. In addition to offering takeout and delivery options on all menu items, you can now show support to a family in need or someone who needs a break this season by sending them lunch or dinner delivered with a thank you note on your behalf. Learn more about the program here. And be sure to watch chef Christa Bruneau-Guenther on Food Network's Wall of Chefs!
Attending attractions
Not every business has been able to adjust to a contactless customer experience – but here are just a few local places that have transformed in-person attendance to make guests feel safe and sanitized while visiting.
The grand opening of The Hive Winnipeg was supposed to happen this summer, and though it had to postpone the celebratory event, The Hive is now open for all those without a fear of heights! Book your climb time in advance with safety protocols in place as it operates at 30 per cent capacity.
Heebie Jeebies and Six Pines, two out of five of our favourite Halloween haunts, are back in action with time-based ticketing. Plan your scares in advance before you go to skip long entry lines and easily distance during your visit.
After five months of darkness, Winnipeg’s beloved independent movie theatre Cinematheque has lit up again with a new online ticketing system and 12 pre-determined, socially distanced groups of seats. However, you can also enjoy movie night virtually with Cinematheque at Home – a digital service offering weekly theatrical releases and movies to rent.
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It’s more important than ever for Winnipeggers to come together to support one another, and help our local businesses find ways stay to afloat and recover.
The more we can be here to support, the longer they’re here to stay.
