For today’s Q&A with a local business owner, we hear from Jay Luther of Gates. The Forest Street mainstay is now open for indoor as well as outdoor dining.
Chef Luis Lopez. Photo courtesy of Gates
Here’s our interview.
New Canaanite: Gates, and other local restaurants, had been compelled for months to offer food on a pickup or delivery basis only, and now we are seeing those restrictions start to lift in phases. What has this all been like for you at Gates and how are you faring?
Jay Luther: We’ve been blessed with support from everyone – our customers, the Chamber, landlord and vendors. We’re all in this together and the support has been remarkable. Chef Luis [Lopez] worked over 70 days straight and carried us through curbside pickup and delivery to bring food to New Canaan families as well as our local first responder heroes.
Chef Luis Lopez and owner Jay Luther. Photo courtesy of Gates
What has the community response been like?
Wonderful, everyone has been so supportive. New Canaan has stayed strong and collectively we’re moving forward. New Canaan is a very close community. In such a time of uncertainty, our town worked together to shelter at home to stay healthy and protect those at higher risk.
Gates has had the ability for a few weeks to serve a limited number of diners outside, and this week is able to open at 50% capacity inside. What should those who are thinking of grabbing a bite at Gates know about what you’re doing to make it a good dining experience?
Inside Gates. Contributed
We’ve reopened with new summer and cocktail menus, updated our specials, created patio seating with high-top tables and refreshed our main dining room. We also have chalk boards as booth dividers for kids to have some fun. We’re offering dinner in the park on Forest Street every night after 5pm where we have 6 tables. The park can also be reserved for small, private gatherings. Of course our staff is well trained in sanitizing and keeping our restaurant, kitchen, staff and customers healthy and safe. We’re excited to see our Gates family and friends very soon.
What is your message for Gates customers?
Our world has changed and all of us have risen to the occasion. We thank you for your support and look forward to welcoming you back to Gates.