Signs of life return to Hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation

The owners of many food outlets wake up early as they prepare for the reopening of their services which have been closed for over three months amid the COVID-19 fight.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 2

A Pho (noodle soup), restaurant on Ong Ich Khiem street is packed with vehicles at 7:30 a.m.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 3

The owners of food outlets use shields and maintain a safe distance between customers in a bid to prevent the potential spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. At present, they are only allowed to operate at 50% of maximum capacity.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 4

Coffee shops also reopen for in-person dining, while strictly abiding by COVID-19 prevention and control regulations.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 5

The resumption of in-person dining requires both owners, employees, and customers to follow the Health Ministry’s 5K message in an effort to curb the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 6

Owners and employees of all venues are forced to be fully vaccinated with two jabs, whilst customers are required to submit electronic health declarations right on the premises.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 7

Coffee shops which have been left quiet for weeks now appear bustling for the whole day.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 8

There’s even no room for parking in front of a coffee shop as connoisseurs line up to sip their favourite drink in a cozy atmosphere.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 9

Some eateries remain closed as they aren’t able to hire enough employees, particularly as students and migrant workers returned to their hometowns during the social distancing period.

signs of life return to hanoi as post-pandemic catering services in operation picture 10

However, many restaurant owners that have suffered from huge losses during the long period of closure for the COVID-19 fight fear the virus could recur at any time unless strict prevention and measures are fully observed.