Italian Beast

In response to COVID-19, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock issued an order for all restaurants and bars to close on March 17, 2020. With no relief plans in place to support the newly unemployed staff, my colleagues and I have spent the days since organizing and strategizing around how we'll continue to take care of our rents and mortgages, health insurance premiums, food costs, student loan debt, and more. Colorado has been hit with an overwhelming number of unemployment applications and as far as other job prospects go, many of us have been dedicated restaurant professionals our entire careers and/or have certain health conditions that add risk to obtaining other customer-facing jobs. 

The restaurants Beast + Bottle, Coperta, and Pizzeria Coperta are Denver neighborhood favorites led by brother and sister duo, Chef Paul Reilly and Aileen Reilly, and JP Taylor, Jr. As small business owners dedicated to changing our food systems for the better, they advocate for and responsibly source the highest quality, most ethical ingredients available simply because they are genuine in their love for people and food. They have been fighting on the frontlines of the restaurant industry crisis, for the futures of their businesses and us as staff, in every action taken to secure government solutions that the industry deserves. Together, they are industry heroes!

While we patiently and optimistically await possible federal- and state-level relief, we are incredibly grateful for any virtual tips you're able to donate. As the people who cook and serve some of Denver's best food and hospitality, we look forward to the day we can welcome you back! Every ounce helps. 

With gratitude,

The Teams of Beast+Bottle, Coperta, and Pizzeria Coperta