Support local restaurants by participating in ‘The Great American Takeout’ on March 24

The restaurant industry has been hit particularly hard by the ongoing coronavirus crisis, with many across the country closing their doors to customers. However, many establishments are still offering food for takeout and delivery during this time of social distancing while keeping their dining rooms off-limits.

To help the estimated 15 million workers who are employed in the food and beverage industry, a coalition of national restaurants has launched The Great American Takeout campaign. On Tuesday, March 24, Americans are encouraged to patronize restaurants that are offering delivery or takeout to show their support for the industry during these trying times.

In addition to using the hashtag, the campaign also has a Twitter account, at @TheGATakeout, and an Instagram account at @thegreatamericantakeout.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-AtR33ltoc/

Restaurant brands participating in the campaign include Applebee’s, Auntie Anne’s, Bahama Breeze Island Grille, Bertucci’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta, Blaze Pizza, Bob Evans, Boston Market, California Pizza Kitchen, Chevys Fresh Mex, Chili’s, Cinnabon, Fogo de Chao, IHOP, Jack in the Box, Jamba Juice, Jason’s Deli, Johnny Rockets, Kona Grill, Little Caesar’s Pizza, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Noodles & Company, Panera Bread, Potbelly, Qdoba, Cold Stone Creamery and The Cheesecake Factory.

They’re asking customers to post on social media about their participation with the hashtag #TheGreatAmericanTakeout.

“This is no longer about the survival of individual restaurants,” Russ Bendel, CEO of coalition member The Habit Burger Grill, said in a statement. “It’s about the future of our industry. And time has run out. Together, we must act to support each other and our communities in unprecedented ways.”

Some restaurants are offing discounts to encourage delivery on Tuesday, so check with your local favorites to see what they’re doing.

Qdoba tweeted out that customers can reply to the tweet with their to-go order for a chance $100 gift card to the Mexican chain:

Noodles & Company tweeted that they will be offering free delivery:

CPK’s tweet indicated that they will offer $10 off a $40 delivery for takeout and delivery orders placed on their site:

This would be a great time to support a restaurant you love or to try a new place you’ve been meaning to get to!

“It will hopefully also raise awareness for how vulnerable restaurant businesses and their employees are during this difficult time,” restaurant consultant Mike Mirkil added in the statement.

Restaurants interested in participating can add their information here.

Will you participate in #TheGreatAmericanTakeOut? Be sure to share your meal on social media!