Lockdown fightback: Harrogate indies to switch to takeaways in battle to keep customers

Harrogate hotel boss fears 'devastating blow' of a new lockdown

Places like Mama Doreen's Emporium on Station Square have been forced to take the difficult decision to close from this Thursday but they are not giving up.

A statement from the cafe famous for its cupcakes and stylish sense of indulgence said: "We have taken the difficult but responsible decision to close our doors at the end of today.

"If you have bookings this Tuesday and Wednesday then we’ll be in touch with you shortly.

"Our takeaway service will commence on the 13th November and will be available Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout lockdown offering scrumptious afternoon teas, cupcakes and birthday cakes.

"To book or view our takeaway menu then please visit www.mamadoreensemporium.co.uk

"Thank you for your continued support and we can’t wait to see you all in December.

"Lots of love and take care,

"The Mama Doreen’s Family."

Other businesses intending to switch to takeaway only include the recently-opened Bakeri Baltzersens on Oxford Street.

It is also believed that Bettys may keep its shops open and that Marconi cafe may continue to serve takeaways.

As for independent cafe Bean & Bud on Commercial Street, it is closing completely and says it will not be offering a takeaway service.

The rules of lockdown mean indie bars such as North Bar on Cheltenham Parade cannot stay open for takeaways, though some bars are looking into whether click and clock would be allowed.

But Major Tom's Social independent bar on The Ginnel off Parliament Street says it will be switching to a food takeout service.

Toby Smith of Major Tom's said: "The new lockdown is not ideal from a business point of view but totally understand something has to be done to save lives.

"We have adapted the business for lockdown before so feel we are prepared from what we learnt last time.

"We will be running a pizza takeout service, you can pick a time slot and place an order via our website; act days & times to be confirmed, but most likely over a weekend.

"We will also be selling pre made vac packed pizzas for people to cook at their own leisure. "The best thing to do is keep an eye on our socials as we will have have further updates in due course. "

Meanwhile, the co-owner of Sasso restaurant and Marconi cafe on Princes Square says both indie businesses will be offering a takeaway service.

Sara Ferguson said: "We will probably only be closed at both sites on Thursday, November 5 to re-lay out the premises for takeaway, and the plan is to then do takeaway from Friday.

"It is looking like Wednesday to Sunday for Marconi like before (we may do Tuesday – still deciding) and at least Thursday to Saturday at Sasso (but we may well add Wednesday to that, too)."

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