Many Regina restaurants are doing what they can at this time to get some dollars in the till.

The fallout from the COVID-19 virus is decimating them as it is many other industries because of the measures that have been taken.

Like many restaurants in the city, Mr. Mikes Steakhouse is offering pick-up and delivery options, but manager Ryan Pylatuk  says business is still suffering.

“It’s not so bad, but it could be better.” Pylatuk said. “We do offer 20 percent off pickup and free delivery, but the impact is still there.  People aren’t buying appetizers or dessert when the meal is one they take home or get delivered so I would say the average check is down about 15 percent per customer compared to what it would be if they were dining in.

Pylatuk, who decided to close the Eastgate location until the all-clear is given, has had to layoff employees like others have which is something he doesn’t like doing because he knows that causes other hardships, but he says the restaurant is doing its best to answer the concerns that are had and the questions being asked.   He says it is tough when you have never been through something like this before.

One thing Pylatuk has noticed is something he hopes to see more of.  That is customers who are buying gift cards.   He says many are trying to conserve cash right now, but he expects more to buy gift cards in the future either for themselves or others which he says will spark the industry when the time comes to get up off the canvas and get back to operations that are normal.