Michigan Matters: Restauranteurs On Surviving the Pandemic

Southfield (CBS Detroit) – Few industries have been as hard hit by the Covid-19 crisis as those in the restaurant sector as four entrepreneurs from Metro Detroit talked about during taping of CBS 62’s “Michigan Matters.”

They appeared with Senior Producer/Host Carol Cain and discussed how they have adjusted along the way. (You can watch 11:30 am Sunday).

Joe Vicari, owner of the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group, which includes Andiamo, Joe Muer Seafood and others, talked about his 19 restaurants and how they have worked to keep employees and customers safe.

Joe Vicari, owner of the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group, which includes Andiamo

He also talked about an employee shortage during this time due to unemployment payouts some are receiving during their furlough.

Andiamo

Nya Marshall, owner of Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails on East Jefferson in Detroit – who opened in late 2019 — will reopen this Monday afternoon.

Nya Marshall, owner of Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails on East Jefferson in Detroit

She discussed a MEDC crowdfunding campaign that is helping her company survive. She was one of 100 small businesses chosen by the state to be involved in the effort.

Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails

Then, Kevin Gudejko, co-owner of Mainstreet Ventures – which includes restaurants in four states including The Chop House, Real Seafood, Palio’s and Carson’s in Ann Arbor—discussed the nuances of working the past few months. After Gov. Gretchen Whitmer closed in-restaurant dining early on, he adjusted their takeout menu and did much more.

Kevin Gudejko, co-owner of Mainstreet Ventures – which includes restaurants in four states including The Chop House

He also is serving on a committee advising Whitmer on safely reopening the industry. She closed most indoor bars again this week as Covid cases began to rise in Michigan and ahead of the July 4^th holiday weekend.

The Chop House

William Roberts, proprietor of the Roberts Restaurant Group, which includes the Beverly Hills Grill and others, is slowly re-opening his establishments.

William Roberts, proprietor of the Roberts Restaurant Group, which includes the Beverly Hills Grill

Many smaller restaurants have closed during this crisis,which Roberts talked about.

Beverly Hills Grill

All four entrepreneurs discussed how social distancing, face masks, and more in keeping restaurants safe for customers and employees.

And they shared thoughts for the year ahead amid the pandemic.

Watch MICHIGAN MATTERS, Saturday at 11:30am on CBS 62