During the pandemic, we opened a curbside patio. It helped sustain our business and keep our patrons returning and happy. On Feb. 5th, a drunk driver plowed through our set-up and caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Thankfully, it was after-hours and no one was hurt. This was an eye-opening experience in many ways– our open-air dining concept had become a crutch we leaned on heavily. The accident ultimately exposed this and due to new regulations from The Department of Mobility and Infrastructure the costs to rebuild have become exponential. We’re working with veteran architects and contractors to navigate the permitting process and the updated codes and regulations to provide a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience. This is also important to our neighborhood. We pride ourselves on being an open door and a safe space for all people. Our patio project is a physical and visible extension of our welcoming space
As a small business that weathered the storm of the pandemic and continues to contribute to the rich fabric of our neighborhood and community, your support will help keep our doors open, keep us providing fair wages to our team, and keep our quality and local sourcing consistent. With so many small businesses and restaurants shuttering, Bloomfield is teetering on the edge of losing its historic charm. This project will not only help our business thrive, but continue the legacy of small, independently run businesses making their home here and contributing to Liberty Avenue's vibrancy.
The Impact
Since our patio was built during the pandemic, the city had very relaxed codes and standards. It was their way of helping small businesses - especially restaurants. Now that an actual permitting and approval process has been created, the cost of rebuilding has skyrocketed. The crash-rated barriers alone cost roughly 13,000 dollars, and rightfully so.
We decided to go this route instead of a Go Fund Me because we are not asking for a hand out. We produce a fantastic product and we would like as many people as possible to experience what we have to offer.
Every bit of your perk purchase will go to our patio! If by some miracle we go over, we will be using the money to upgrade the electric panel in this old building, which will help to reduce our surging electrical costs.
Our team thrives because we care about equity and we care about each other. Our patrons keep coming back because they feel welcomed and they enjoy the delicious and innovative food. We are also a proud and important part of the local food system by sourcing and collaborating locally. Your contribution affects our business as well as the small farmers and food producers from where we source, the team that keeps everything running smoothly, and the neighborhood whose vibrancy depends on small independent businesses keeping their doors open.
