Independent Restaurant Coalition

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Independent Restaurant Coalition logo

The Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) is an advocacy group formed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to support independent restaurants and bars in the United States. The coalition aims to provide a unified voice for small, independently owned restaurants and bars, which have been significantly impacted by the pandemic.

History

The IRC was established in March 2020, shortly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The coalition was founded by a group of chefs and restaurateurs who recognized the need for a collective effort to advocate for the unique needs of independent restaurants. The founding members include prominent figures in the culinary industry, such as Tom Colicchio, José Andrés, and Nancy Silverton.

Mission

The primary mission of the IRC is to advocate for policies and legislation that support the survival and recovery of independent restaurants and bars. This includes lobbying for financial assistance, favorable tax policies, and other measures that can help these businesses navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Key Initiatives

The IRC has been involved in several key initiatives, including:

• **The RESTAURANTS Act**: The IRC played a significant role in advocating for the RESTAURANTS Act, which aimed to provide financial relief to independent restaurants through grants.
• **Public Awareness Campaigns**: The coalition has launched various campaigns to raise public awareness about the struggles faced by independent restaurants and to encourage community support.
• **Policy Advocacy**: The IRC actively engages with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to promote legislation that benefits independent restaurants.

Impact

Since its inception, the IRC has been instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of independent restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The coalition's efforts have resulted in increased public awareness and have influenced legislative actions aimed at providing relief to the restaurant industry.

Membership

Membership in the IRC is open to independent restaurant and bar owners, chefs, and other stakeholders in the food and beverage industry. The coalition encourages collaboration and collective action among its members to achieve its advocacy goals.

See Also

• RESTAURANTS Act
• Tom Colicchio
• José Andrés
• Nancy Silverton
• COVID-19 pandemic