TAKEAWAY and home delivery options are the only way forward for a number of Bathurst restaurants and cafés, whose trade has been restricted by the NSW Government.
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While pubs and clubs have been forced to close in one of a raft of measures to limit the spread of coronavirus, restaurants and cafés have been given the option to continue providing their services.
However, this can only be done through takeaway and delivery.
In Bathurst, Pantano's Bar and Grill is now offering these options exclusively.
Owner Fiona Miller said the restaurant did offer takeaway before the coronavirus pandemic, but the transition has still been difficult.
"It's definitely been a challenge. We had takeaway available beforehand, but the fact we had no notice to make it attractive to people is hard," she said, saying businesses had just 12 hours to react.
"It is something I haven't seen before."
Pantano's can offer its entire menu for takeaway, with the exception of sizzling prawns and the large meat skewer, as these items are too difficult to do.
The menu is available online and the restaurant has also announced takeaway specials packages for their customers.
Orders can be placed by calling 6331 1264.
For those who want delivery, the fee will be $5, however all orders over $50 can be delivered for free.
As a result of the changes, Ms Miller said staff hours have been affected.
"All casuals have had their hours greatly reduced. That may change if our home delivery and takeaway takes off," she said.
The community is encouraged to support restaurants and cafés as best they can during the restrictions.
"I would encourage everyone to try and support us as they financially can, because when all this is over people will still want to go out to restaurants ... but if they don't support us now, there is no guarantee we will be able to keep the doors open until then," Ms Miller said.
Other restaurants and cafés committing to takeaway include, but are not limited to, Aldente, Country Coffee, Dogwood, Panorama Bathurst and Rockabilly Café.
Bathurst Taxi Tucker will continue to operate as well, with its website currently listing eight venues.
Visit the Taxi Tucker website to see the participating businesses.
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