FEATURED COLLECTION

“It’s not a bar, it’s a home…”

Emma H. from American Portrait’s “I Keep” and others in the food/drink industry share their experiences in navigating their work during COVID-19.

In the third episode of American Portrait, Emma H. strives to prevent her bar, which has been around for 86 years, from closing down for good. Often a major gathering spot in neighborhoods, bars, restaurants and other food/drink establishments across America face challenges to somehow stay in business since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. From safety measures to permanent closures, people from America’s food/drink industry share their current realities to their beloved establishments that are like second homes for many.

I never expected to go to work at an empty restaurant because everyone is too scared to come in and eat. I also never expected to worry about...

It's impressive how the community has stepped up for us.

Looking ahead, I believe there is still hope for the restaurant industry during these difficult covid times! Unity, togetherness, respect and understanding are the key elements.

I never expected my husband and I needing to make the decision to keep our restaurant, Nickys Cruisin Diner from Bangor Maine, open during a pandemic or after...

Looking ahead, I hope every summer NYC will still have outdoor dining. It was out of necessity because of COVID, and I actually like it. Though sorry...

I never expected to quit my job to go back and finish my undergraduate degree. This pandemic has thrown the whole restaurant industry up in the air. Every...

To me, work means taking care of your family. Working as a waitress at a family restaurant has been challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waitstaff all of over the world were left unemployed and many have lost a significant portion of their income as the entire...