The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is threatening to close Manuel’s Tavern, but the community is rallying to save the beloved Poncey-Highland watering hole.
Within 15 hours of the creation of a GoFundMe fundraiser by patron Angelo Fuster, more than $60,000 has already been donated. With the level of donations, the goal of $75,00 will likely be met today, Dec. 4.
Recently added to the National Register of Historic Places and a mainstay of politicians, journalists, and locals for 64 years, Manuel’s was closed for several months at the onset of the pandemic. Although Manuel’s reopened for takeout in May, created a makeshift patio in its back parking lot, reduced hours, and expanded takeout business has been off
Owner Brian Maloof said plainly in a Dec. 3 Facebook post that Manuel’s is in “financial trouble.”
“For 8 months Manuel’s has taken every course of action known and attempted everything we have been advised to do to save this business,” Maloof wrote. “After everything that has been cut and saved and attempted, we find ourselves still very cash short. I informed the staff of our situation two days ago. Their responses have been heartwarming, supportive, and motivating. They love Manuel’s as much as I do.”
Maloof, the son of founder and namesake Manuel Maloof, said Manuel’s has had an average reduction in sales of 62 percent per month.
“We have been spending cash reserves to make up the average $25,000.00 a month shortage. Currently, we have no more reserves. Without a cash injection, we will be forced to close for good,” Maloof wrote.
Maloof said Manuel’s received a loan from the federal Paycheck Protection Program, but that cash infusion was gone. Since Congress has stalled on approving additional stimulus funding, Manuel’s and many other restaurants and businesses across the country are hanging by a financial thread.
The $75,000 fundraiser will pay for the liquor licenses, insurance, and cover payroll for the next couple of months, Maloof said.
To make a donation, visit this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-manuels-tavern.
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