It has been 11 months since COVID-19 started and it now feels like society has started to adjust to working from home and constantly wearing masks, but we often don’t realize the effect the pandemic has had on many of the families who own small businesses. The government was able to aid these small businesses through various acts like the CARES Act, but it is still not enough and nearly 43% of businesses are closed now due to COVID. Now, they need the help of their community more than ever, so if you are willing, here are some ways you can support your local businesses:

• Order takeout or pick-up: A safe and easy way to support them
• Use pick-up/delivery services (Postmates, Grubhub, UberEats etc.): For those who don’t feel comfortable leaving the house
• Leave good reviews: Doing this will attract more business!
• Interact with their social media (if they have one): Doing this will help their account grow so more people see their posts
• Remember to tip! The employees are risking their lives everyday to serve you!

With that, here are 5 amazing local businesses to try!

1. Backyard BBQ Pit

Located in Durham, this black-owned soul food restaurant has been named as one of the best BBQ stops in all of NC. They are open Monday through Saturday after 12:00 PM so if you are ever craving good BBQ, you should definitely stop by!

1. Cha House

With locations in Raleigh, Cary and Chapel Hill, Cha House is a family-owned Asian-inspired tea house that sells an assortment of teas alongside a snack menu inspired by traditional Taiwanese street food. Hours vary from store to store, but they are all open 7 days a week!

1. Empanada Factory

Located in Wake Forest, this Latin American restaurant offers over 40 types of handcrafted gourmet empanadas along with a variety of sides, salads and dipping sauces. This restaurant is open 7 days a week and you can now order online!

1. Pokano Poke

Located in Raleigh, this restaurant combines the traditional Hawaiian Poke Bowls with a grill, which they refer to as a Volcano, offers various meat and vegetarian options. Complete your order by adding a cup of boba on the side! They are open everyday of the week and offer an online ordering service as well!

1. Bosphorus

Located in Cary, Bosphorus is a family-owned restaurant that offers a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, from Turkish coffee to Mediterranean Kabobs. There are also many vegetarian options! Open Tuesday through Sunday, this restaurant is one you should try when you have the chance!