Buzz
Renowned as the epitome of posh dining on the planet, where getting a reservation requires booking months, if not years ahead – That's Michelin 3-star restaurants.
Yet, much like the global scenario, as the Covid pandemic shows no signs of waning, Michelin-starred restaurants or street-side eateries alike find themselves forced to close (as per governmental mandates) or voluntarily shutter (due to lack of customers).
A fascinating Michelin 3-star restaurant in the US has ingeniously resorted to using mannequins to fill empty spots at their establishment, as they reopen their doors, albeit serving only half the usual number of customers.
Welcome to 'The Inn at Little Washington,' a captivating restaurant we're about to explore together!
A renowned 3-star Michelin restaurant in the United States
The Inn at Little Washington is a luxurious countryside restaurant and inn located in Washington County, Virginia, USA. Founded by Patrick O'Connell and Reinhardt Lynch in a former garage in 1978, it is now solely owned by Chef Patrick O'Connell.
In 2018, The Inn at Little Washington was awarded 3 Michelin stars, consistently ranking among the most beloved restaurants in America for many years.
Since 1987, The Inn has proudly been a member of the Relais & Châteaux hotel group.
Reopening Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic
Allowed to reopen at the end of May 2020, The Inn at Little Washington was limited to hosting only 50% of its capacity due to social distancing requirements in Virginia, USA. Photo: AFP.
Chef and owner Patrick O'Connell came up with a fun solution: filling empty seats with mannequins dressed as diners, creating a whimsical atmosphere in the restaurant. Photo: AFP.
'When we needed to address social distancing and reduce the number of guests at the restaurant, this solution seemed quite obvious - filling empty seats with whimsically dressed mannequins,' Mr. O'Connell told AFP. Photo: AFP.
'This not only adheres to social distancing regulations between real diners but also brings a little laughter as they snap some fun photos,' he added. Photo: AFP.
The Inn at Little Washington collaborated with a theater and a design company to create costumes for the mannequins. These lifelike mannequins, dressed in 1940s-style attire with pearl necklaces, striped dresses, and elegant suits, were crafted to resemble real people. Photo: AFP.
Waitstaff will pour wine for the mannequins and inquire, 'How would 'they' like their dinner?'
Featured in the image is a dish made from lobster and caviar. Photo: The Inn at Little Washington.
'I've always loved mannequins - they never complain about anything, and you can find plenty of joy in dressing them up,' Mr. O'Connell added. Photo: AFP.
The Inn at Little Washington is considered one of the most famous restaurants in the United States and the world, with 3 Michelin stars and numerous certifications and prestigious awards. Photo: The Inn at Little Washington.
The tasting menu at the restaurant starts from $248, excluding wine.
The Covid pandemic has turned the world upside down, affecting society in both positive and negative ways. For the restaurant service industry, constantly brainstorming optimal solutions to fill empty seats has become more crucial than ever. Here are a few intriguing images to help you relax in the midst of this less-than-optimistic situation.
With a refreshed and alert mindset, may you come up with even better business ideas.
Wishing you success in your ventures,
Warm regards,
Source: AFP News.
