Undoubtedly, 2020 struck the restaurant industry hard as the pandemic devastated an industry that employs over 15 million Americans. Chefs and restauranteurs who are normally consumed by a relentless fast-paced work environment, now have time to think about how the restaurant industry might look in the upcoming year. No one really knows what the future holds, but restaurant/bar scene experts have a few predictions:

Single-use menus, packaged silverware, sanitation signs and table with lots of space in between them may be signs of the future. To make all customers and employees feel comfortable as restaurants/bars reopen at a higher capacity, these protocols will most likely stick around. Safety technology such as "UV Portals," which sanitize customers as they walk in could emerge in the future, along with more artificial intelligence that ensures hand sanitizing and safety standards are effective.

The restaurants that are getting through this season are those which have mastered take-out ordering, and have prioritized making online ordering and curbside pick-up a convenient option. Because third-party delivery services take up to 30% of every order, some restaurants have started their own delivery fleets and alternative delivery services which are more restaurant-friendly.

One lesson that is being learned is the importance of protecting workers. Restaurant owners need their employees to remain healthy so businesses can operate and meet their customers' demands. No one wants to find out that an employee of an establishment is unwell, as this would certainly drive customers away, especially during these times when guests are taking extra precautions to be safe and healthy.

Simplified menus that result in less food waste (a.k.a. less financial waste) have steadily become a trend throughout 2020. This, along with the ever-growing need to become an eco-friendlier world, has restaurants taking an innovative approach to a "zero waste" philosophy. Local food sourcing is crucial, as it is typically more attainable and fresher, plus local restaurants supporting local farming helps boost the local economy.

In what feels like a never-ending storm, one silver lining is that the entire country realizes now more than ever before, a new-found appreciation for the restaurant industry. Through the constant ups and downs, we have learned how resilient, adaptable, creative, and strong this industry is and how we can posture ourselves for a future that not only survives, but thrives!