We aren’t saying anything outrageous if we say that 2020 has been a nightmare for us all, especially anyone whose livelihood depends on the tourism and hospitality industry.
Now that we are a few months into the so-called ‘new normal’, it’s a good time to let you all know exactly how we have tackled Covid so far, and how we intend to carry on.
NONI had to close for a number of weeks owing to the Legal Notices mandating closures of entertainment venues. We complied fully with the directives even before the Legal Notices were published, because business or not, we felt an obligation to our clients and our staff to ensure utmost safety in uncertain times.
We weren’t just going to give up without a fight though, so as soon as we reopened we;
- Set up hand sanitisers and temperature checking for all diners upon entry
- Masks for all staff members; and even with our masks on, you can tell we’re smiling!
- Reduced tables inside the dining room, in keeping with the law
- We experimented with QR codes for a digital menu, and then decided to use a simple, single elegant paper sheet for menus, which can be discarded after use. Not quite guilt free, but it’s the best we can do
In the height of Covid-induced panic, we tried out the MICHELIN At Home concept, and got a beautiful mention by a frequent diner for our takeaway menu and our attitude to the crisis, which we truly appreciated. After reopening the restaurant, we stopped providing takeaway.
Meanwhile we also worked hard to be altruistic and alongside other noteworthy chefs on the island rekindled the wartime idea of the Victory Kitchen that provides hot meals at no charge to families in need.
Of course it was hard to put a lifelong dream on hold, as The Food and Wine Gazette put it, but big, bold, beautiful dreams are worth working for and waiting for, if that is what the circumstances dictate.
Since reopening we haven’t stopped working. We have a brand new a-la carte menu, as well as a tasting menu that’s been getting rave reviews from diners.
We’re operating at full capacity, albeit reduced due to Covid, but we won’t complain and we won’t let that stop us from smiling and serving you our pride and joy. We continue doing everything in our ability to keep our work family employed and their jobs safe.
We look forward to continuing to welcome you to NONI, in a safe, friendly environment where you won’t just enjoy a truly delicious experience, but also can be assured that we have taken all manner of precautions to ensure your safety alongside our own. Lastly, we thank you, our customers for the incredible continuous support you’ve given us in these tough months.
