Did you know that about 17 percent of restaurants in the United States have closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic? With widespread fear, stay-at-home orders, and social distancing, many restaurants simply aren’t making what they need to survive. Even with the development of a COVID-19 vaccine, many experts expect that local restaurants will continue to struggle for the foreseeable future as people continue to avoid leaving their homes whenever possible.
It’s more important than ever for us to support local restaurants. It’s easy to forget how much they need us to survive, so remembering to support them throughout this difficult time should become a higher priority as we give back to our community. Luckily, Lakewood has some excellent restaurants. Here are three of our absolute favorites!
Javatini’s
Javatini’s Espresso has the best lattes in Lakewood. You can tell how passionate they are about coffee as soon as you taste it. They use freshly roasted coffee locally roasted on site with coffee beans from all over the world, and they are the only coffee shop to offer coffee roasted in Lakewood.
Their baristas are also friendly and talented. If you have any questions about coffee, they are more than happy to answer them—you’ll probably leave with even more answers than you needed. Plus, they can make some excellent latte art. With a convenient online ordering system and easy takeout, Javatini’s is the perfect place for your morning coffee before work.
Vibez Cafe
A brand new restaurant to be aware of is Vibez Cafe, which is seriously delicious. They only opened about a month ago, and we have already heard several of our residents rave about how good their açaí bowls and rainbow bagels are. With an environment that feels like it’s in Hawaii, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a new place after driving only five minutes from home!
Vibez Cafe is a great option for brunch with your roommates or an early breakfast before work. If you end up trying it, make sure to wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt and some flip flops while you go pick it up to fully maximize your experience.
Katsu Bar
Katsu Bar is another excellent local restaurant. Featuring Japanese burgers and sandwiches, not only is Katsu one of the best restaurants in Lakewood, but it is also one of the most unique. We have never been to a restaurant with a fusion of Japanese and American flavors like this one. They have so many different dishes that you are sure to find something you’ll love. We highly recommend their cauliflower tempura and baja burger!
With outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout, you can easily eat at Katsu without breaking social distancing guidelines or putting yourself or others at risk.
Supporting local restaurants is an excellent way to give back to our community, especially during a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Luckily, with delicious restaurants like these three, eating out is enjoyable and easy, too. Let us know what you think if you try any of these restaurants. We would love to hear from you!
Photo credit: Javatini’s Espresso