Lake Forest Drive-Thru Restaurants Want Your Business

LAKE FOREST, CA —Fast food, drive-thru, and takeout have become the best option for many families, especially with mom and dad, both working from home, with the coronavirus outbreak. Restaurants across Orange County, California, and the nation have closed to in-house dining and are still striving to answer that "what's for dinner?" question.

During the pandemic, it is in both the city's and in every Lake Forest business owner's mind to bring back their customers and keep their employees and guests safe.

"The city has made health and safety a top priority, but we are not ignoring our businesses," Mayor Neeki Moatazedi said over Facebook. They will continue to follow the governor's plan for reopening closed businesses the right way.

Though some Orange County restaurants are trying to open early in spite of the governor's orders, even Lake Forest's fast food restaurants are not thinking fast when it comes to opening their stores to in house dining, according to a recent report. Drive down El Toro Road or Lake Forest Drive, and you'll find a plethora of fast food options. Cars line up daily for inexpensive dining alternatives with limited contact.

The national Chain restaurant, Del Taco—with corporate offices based out of Lake Forest—says it will reopen restaurants in due time in a recent statement.

According to President and CEO John D. Cappasola, Jr., though Del Taco in-house dining is not open across the brand right now, employers and franchisees are providing great food and service to communities and limiting their contact with customers.

In an uncertain economy, he says that Del Taco has the health and safety of its employees, franchisees, and guests in mind.

The company has redesigned procedures, promoting social distancing in kitchens and for carry-out, and are providing gloves and facemasks to all employees. There is also increase cleaning frequency, improved contact-free service, and more preparations in place for employee health and wellness.

"We are so grateful for all of our team members and franchise partners who have truly risen to the occasion during this pandemic," Cappasola said. "We are highly confident that Del Taco will not only survive this crisis but will thrive and emerge even stronger."

The city released a suggestion of easy to pick up restaurants to choose from, from mom and pop stores to national chains, owned by local business owners.

Which one is your favorite to-go takeout pandemic dinner? Tell us in comments!