The coronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting everything in the world right now, and small local businesses have been chief among them. Many locally-owned businesses are not able to sustain the overhead costs of labor and upkeep during these unprecedented times, resulting in closings and layoffs.
As we are now at the one month mark with no end in sight, it's incredibly important to continue supporting your community so everyone can come out of this.
The businesses on this list are locally-owned and are (at the time of publication) still open.
1. Kanki
Kanki is a staple in the Triangle area, with their Crabtree location having been in operation for almost 30 years. Additionally, it is owned and operated in Raleigh and they employ a large number of people. While you can't sit at the sushi bar or the teppanyaki tables, you can still order take-out and curbside delivery.
2. Gym Tacos
Gym Tacos is a food truck offering authentic tacos and other Mexican dishes, such as burritos, sopes, tortas, tostadas, and quesadillas. They're known for having some of the best tacos in Raleigh! You can usually find them parked at a gas station, so while you're filling up on gas grab some tacos to-go!
Another amazing taco truck in the area is Lobos Tacos y Pupusas, which also serves up hot dogs, agua fresca, and Salvadoran pupusas. It's operated by a couple and their tortillas are super fresh.
3. Guasaca
Guasaca offers some of the freshest, most filling foods in the Raleigh area. They have four locations throughout the Triangle, however, only two remain open during this time for takeout and delivery.
4. Carolina Nutrition
Carolina Nutrition is a great place for healthy protein shakes and energizing teas. They're currently offering curbside service to customers. The owners really are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. They are hosting a "Pay It Forward" project, raising funds to donate meals to others in the community who are working on the front lines of the pandemic.
5. FRESH
As the temperatures heat up, you can grab relief in the form of a delicious locally made ice-cream from FRESH. They're offering pick-up and are delivering pints.
6. Happy + Hale
Happy + Hale offers healthy foods, smoothies, and juices. Order their Kindness Bowl! It's only $5 and the proceeds go to help feed those in need.
7. Zenfish
Zenfish Poke Bar has always offered delicious food from local farmers and sources. Their food is always fresh and tasty. They're offering takeout and delivery.
8. Layered Croissanterie
Layered offers next level pastries and coffees. They've only been open since June 2019, so help keep their dream alive by grabbing yourself a tasty treat!
9. Makus Empanadas
Makus Empanadas are like little amazing pockets of happiness. They're offering delivery and takeout. During this time, they have a pay it forward project - by purchasing a dozen empanadas, you will receive another dozen for free! The idea is for you to donate the extra dozen to those in need.