NORTH East eateries will pivot to takeaway or temporarily shut on Thursday amid Melbourne's escalating coronavirus crisis, just weeks after the national lockdown rocked the sector.
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Under a new state of disaster and stage three restrictions throughout regional Victoria, restaurants and cafes will close for the coming six weeks.
Wodonga restaurant Italy on a Plate co-owner Carmelo Cardamone said the second lockdown within weeks had floored the regional hospitality sector.
Mr Cardamone said two weeks ago he had paid $40,000 for five pallets of premium produce and wine to meet forecast demand.
"We never thought we'd be doing this again so soon," he said.
"We thought it was a once in a lifetime situation."
Having opened Italy on a Plate late last year with partner Pierina DeGrazia, Mr Cardamone said they hoped to offer a takeaway service this lockdown.
"Locals have supported us vigorously since we reopened after the first lockdown," Mr Cardamone said.
"We have lots of Albury customers but even after the border closure, Wodonga customers helped us book out, night after night.
"We have been taking bookings for 60; we have enough rooms for 80 but not enough staff.
"Pierina and me have been working 90 to 100 hours a week to keep up; we make all of our dishes from scratch."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Wodonga restaurant and bar The Goods Shed has closed this week to regroup for its takeaway service, Goods Shed@home.
The Goods Shed launched a modified version of its food and drinks menu available for takeaway or home delivery in March during the first lockdown.
It included takeaway tap craft beer in recyclable vessels and cocktails.
It was billed as "We're bringing The Goods Shed to you".
Myrtleford-based Gapsted Wines will temporarily close its restaurant to customers this week.
It will continue to offer Heat@Home meals, which can be collected from the cellar door on Fridays and Saturdays, noon to 5pm.
Having planned to reopen this weekend, Mitta Mitta Brewing Co will postpone its return.
Instead it will offer a driveway pickup service on Friday and Saturday nights.
Albury's Nannini Ristorante and Pizzeria closed its doors on July 18 in response to the coronavirus crisis.
"Due to the downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we regret to advise that Nannini will be closing its doors indefinitely," it advised.
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