The 21st Show

How the Coronavirus Crisis is Affecting Local Restaurants

Produced by Libby Foster
 
The seating area is closed-off at a food court in Assi Plaza during the coronavirus outbreak, Friday, April 3, 2020, in Niles, Ill. All bars, gyms, movie theaters, food courts to close, and restaurants are to move to drive-thru during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The seating area is closed-off at a food court in Assi Plaza during the coronavirus outbreak, Friday, April 3, 2020, in Niles, Ill. All bars, gyms, movie theaters, food courts to close, and restaurants are to move to drive-thru during the COVID-19 pandemic. AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

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It’s been a month since restaurants and bars closed here in Illinois. We hear how one business owner is faring, and ask what he needs from state leaders. 

Four weeks ago on March 16, Illinois bars and restaurants closed down. And as Governor Pritzker’s stay at home order continues through the end of the month, workers and owners in the food industry have been trying to keep their doors open while also keeping their employees safe. 

According to the Illinois Restaurant Association, last year restaurant and food service jobs in Illinois accounted for 10% of overall employment in the state at more than half a million people. 

For more on how small businesses are coping during the coronavirus crisis, we were joined by Brent Schwoerer. He is the owner of Engrained Brewery and Restaurant in Springfield.