From The Banner · Christina Tkacik · · 1m
Why Baltimore Lunches Are Vanishing
Baltimore restaurants struggle to find lunch customers after pandemic shifts.
In brief
Baltimore restaurants struggle to find lunch customers after pandemic shifts. Baltimore restaurants face declining lunch service due to post-pandemic shifts and customer habits. Originally reported by The Banner.
Lunch crowds vanish
Baltimore’s lunch scene struggles with low attendance after pandemic shifts.
“It’s scary”
HappyJack Tavern’s lunch
HappyJack Tavern’s $12 smashburgers attract few customers during lunch hours.
“It’s scary”
Lunch service challenges
Restaurants face high labor costs and low sales during lunch hours.
“It’s scary”
Pandemic impact
Many restaurants ended lunch service during the pandemic and never resumed.
“RIP power lunch at Tío Pepe”
Chef David Zamudio
Chef David Zamudio stopped lunch service after office workers were in a hurry.
“If somebody is just having a burger and a Coke, we can’t pay the bills with that”
Lunch service persistence
Some restaurants like The Ruxton Steakhouse keep lunch service despite erratic sales.
“We are keeping it because we believe we will continue to build”
Lunch service alternatives
Restaurants pivot to takeout or special menus to attract lunch customers.
“I’m bored with Sweetgreen”
Long-standing lunch spots
A few restaurants have served lunch for decades in Baltimore.
“Todd Conner’s, which opened in 2007, and Slainte, which opened in 2004”
Lunch service outlook
Restaurants hope to build lunch service by next year with steady customers.
“I can guarantee you, by this time next year, 10 people will be sitting here”
In short
Baltimore restaurants face declining lunch service due to post-pandemic shifts and customer habits.
