Business

'It is a blessing.' Restaurants see boom in business as Biden announces relief package

Restaurants across the Triangle are welcoming a multi-billion dollar relief package that was announced by President Joe Biden on Wednesday.

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By
Julian Grace
, WRAL anchor/reporter
RALEIGH, N.C. — Restaurants across the Triangle are welcoming a multibillion-dollar relief package that was announced by President Joe Biden on Wednesday.

It's coming at a time when some struggling restaurants need it most.

Torchy's Tacos, which opened its doors for the first time on Wednesday, was so popular that it had a line for several blocks.

People waiting in line said they were excited for tacos, but even happier to be dining out again.

"Finally, things are opening back up. Life is good," said one customer waiting in line.

At La Carreta, business was also booming. But it hasn't always been that way during the coronavirus pandemic.

"It is a blessing," said owner Sarai Gonzales. "Many of our restaurants have closed down, but we are remaining and thriving. We are thankful that we are busy today, and we are grateful for everyone that is joining us today."

Biden has plans for the restaurant industry, which he says lost 2.3 million jobs. Under Biden's relief program, restaurants and bars can qualify for grants equal to their pandemic-related losses.

"Whether it's our economy, or our sense of community, I'm relying on restaurants to play a big role in our recovery. We want our economy to recover in a way that deals everyone in, and our restaurants need a seat at the table," said Biden during his announcement.

Restaurant owners who just opened on Wednesday, or have been around for a while, said they were grateful for Cinco de Mayo.

"We had a little doubt because of the pandemic, but Cinco de Mayo always comes through," said Gonzales.                    

                              

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