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Local Eateries Adopt Safety Strategies for Coronavirus

Sign saying It will be okay in front of Perk Coffee
Sign saying It will be okay in front of Perk Coffee

Health officials announced a positive case of COVID-19 in Chesterfield County over the weekend. The resident recently traveled overseas. As the county ramps up prevention efforts, some small businesses are adapting their strategies to keep customers and staff safe.

Christophile Konstas is owner of Perk Coffee and Lunch Box in Bon Air. She says they’ve ramped up their cleaning and sanitation procedures. They also moved to carry-out food only for the time being.

Perk Coffee and Lunch Box kept the door permanently open and moved condiments behind the counter so customers wouldn't have to touch so many things. Now, they're going to a pick up order only format. (Photo: Ian Stewart/VPM News)
Perk Coffee and Lunch Box kept the door permanently open and moved condiments behind the counter so customers wouldn’t have to touch so many things. Now, they’re going to a pick up order only format. (Photo: Ian Stewart/VPM News)

“I have to say, our local community has been amazing and supportive and coming in just to show us support because they know it’s gonna be real rough before it gets better,” Konstas said.

Konstas says she saw a spike in her business over the last few days as customers prepare to spend more time at home. But despite that increase, she had to reduce operating hours after some staff called out.

Karina Benevides owns Abuelitas and two other Mexican restaurants in the region. She told VPM that they have been wiping down surfaces every two hours over the past few days. She says they’re also considering moving to drive thru service only until things get back to normal. 

All our coronavirus coverage is available at vpm.org/coronavirus.

Ian M. Stewart previously was the transportation reporter and fill-in anchor for VPM News. He also produced and hosted the World Music Show for VPM Music during its 16 seasons.

Stewart won multiple Regional Edward R. Murrow and Virginias AP Broadcasters awards for reporting and sound editing. He graduated from San Francisco State University with degrees in journalism and creative writing.

You can often find him riding his bike around Chesterfield County or on the Virginia Capital Trail.

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