09/06/2020
Countries around the world are implementing a wide range of measures to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and to stimulate the recovery of the hospitality sector. While the battle to defeat the virus is not yet over, Kenya is cautiously reopening with a sheer determination to resuscitate the economy. Restaurants all over the country are gradually reopening their doors in accordance with the new guidelines established by the Ministry of Health.
Trattoria temporarily closed during the months of March and April, as part of the collective response, to prioritize safety and in compliance with guidelines by authorities. Established in 1981, The historic family-run restaurant in the city center has withstood many social, political and generational changes and is even more committed to ensuring its presence as a landmark of Italian gastronomy in Kenya. "The Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted many sectors, not least that of hospitality" – Gaetano Ruffo, owner, and founder of the Trattoria, says - 'it has given us the opportunity to remember why we do what we do and continue to cultivate our passion for food and service. As we look ahead to the future of hospitality we have implemented full scale enhancements to our already stringent health and safety procedures and training to ensure guest and employee health and safety as a top priority".
The Trattoria restaurant and it’s intimate Luna lounge will observe new opening hours in accordance with the curfew extension, opening at 7.00 a.m. and closing at 8.00 p.m every day of the week with adapted menu systems that offer only fresh dishes, with the many specialties that have made Trattoria famous. Take-away is available for all items on the menu, including the famous pies, fresh pasta, and legendary pizzas. And then there is the great selection of Italian wines, imported from the best of the international wine scene.
"We have been projected into the future" adds Ruffo "ultimately it will still be our dedicated staff delivering the same attention to detail, service and care for which our restaurant is known. In addition to no-touch sinks and disinfectant dispensers at the entrance and other prominent areas within reach, the restaurant has increased the frequency of regiment cleaning of all surfaces, floors and restrooms"
Restaurants across Nairobi have had to adapt to new service models to comply with guidelines that prioritize personal space. The capacity of the restaurant has been modified to cater for seat to seat and table distancing. All employees and Customers will be subject to temperature control with non-contact thermometers.
"The support of our customers over these forty-five years is overwhelming" - concludes Ruffo - “change is never easy but is necessary and we are enthusiastic to come back stronger. We owe a lot to our customers who have been with us for these many years and have made Trattoria what it is. We can't wait to welcome everyone through our doors again".