Food Blogging During a Pandemic
I’ve been wanting to write a new post for this blog for months, but honestly, with everything going on in the world right now, writing a typical food blog post feels a little...ill-timed, especially knowing how many people are facing food insecurity due to the pandemic, and considering all the great restaurants that are struggling to stay afloat, or have already closed because the effects of COVID-19 were too hard to bear. Sure, even before the pandemic, these were very real issues for a lot of people, but it’s become a much bigger challenge collectively as a society, all in a relatively short span of time.
With that being said, I’ve been trying to find a way to blog in a more meaningful way that still feels true to me, but that also takes into account how the world as we know it has changed, particularly here in the U.S. (and in a city as expensive as New York). So while part of me wants to write about the delicious risotto I made a few weeks ago, I thought this would be a good opportunity to compile a list of ways we can support each other during these trying times: that goes for our friends and neighbors, as well as local restaurants and other small businesses we’ve come to love.
(Just to clarify: nothing against food blogs that have continued to publish their usual content: I think there is value in having a sense of normalcy, as well as some new recipes to try out while many of us are spending more time at home and/or trying to save money by cooking instead of eating out. )
Volunteer or donate to your local food pantry or other meal services in your community
If you’re able to, consider donating money or food to your local food bank or food pantry. Sometimes in person volunteering isn’t the best option (social distancing, too many cooks in the kitchen, and all that), but you can still reach out to those who are organizing and leading efforts to feed people in the community and find out how you can be most helpful. This could involve dropping off supplies, helping get the word out about the initiative, or sending monetary donations to help fund their efforts. Remember, there’s more than one way to help. FreshDirect also has an option to add a donation amount to your grocery delivery orders (at least here in New York City) - the donations go to NY Common Pantry.
2. Support Restaurants and Other Small Businesses
Again, if you’re in the position to, consider supporting local restaurants. Here in NYC, most restaurants are still closed for indoor dining (although as of September 30th, indoor dining at limited capacity is scheduled to resume), but many have transitioned to outdoor dining and of course, you can always get take out or delivery. This goes without saying, but be sure to tip well! Many people who work in the restaurant industry have been some of the hardest hit by the pandemic, so a generous tip is just a small way to say thanks for their efforts.
3. Write a Review
Now’s a great time to write reviews for local restaurants and shops you like. Reading recent positive reviews can help bolster a business’s reputation and persuade new patrons to try out a restaurant they’ve never been to before.
4. Buy a Gift Card
This option works double duty. Buying a gift card is a small way to support a local restaurant or cafe. You can also give the gift card to someone to help brighten their day. But if you want to save it for yourself to use some other time, there’s no harm in that either.
5. Check In With Friends, Families, and Neighbors
We’re all struggling in one way or another. I feel immensely grateful to be largely unaffected by COVID-19 (health-wise and financially). It’s still been challenging to adjust to this new way of life, but I am definitely among the lucky ones. No matter the circumstances, we have to stay connected and support one another - especially now. If you’re on a tighter food budget than usual, websites like Budget Bytes provide a variety of recipes that can be made at a low cost, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Also, recipes like this one is one of my faves, and can also be made without having to spend a lot of money. If sardines aren’t your thing, canned tuna works just as well.
Lastly, I just want to remind you all to take care of yourselves and stay safe out there. I’m making the most of social distancing by spending as much time outdoors as possible, exploring local parks and getting food (mostly to go, though I did recently take advantage of outdoor dining at a restaurant in my neighborhood) from local restaurants. If there’s a silver lining here, this situation has definitely made me appreciate all that Brooklyn has to offer even more than I did before. I hope you remain safe and healthy. Until next time…
Here I am near Brooklyn Bridge Park, taking in the views