Restaurants across the nation have suffered incalculable losses this year because of the Covid-19 pandemic. They have had to alter their business models and switch to outdoor seating, delivery, or take-out to try to adjust to pandemic safety protocols. Many eateries have gone out of business, and countless numbers of restaurant workers have lost their jobs. The situation has been grim overall.

However, there has been some good news amidst all of the struggle. Some restaurateurs have persevered, and they have been able to open new dining establishments this year. New York City has seen a wave of new restaurants open their doors to a weary public, providing delicious food and a respite from home cooking just when New Yorkers need it most. Here are three new restaurants that opened in NYC this year:

1. Forever Yours Falafel: this is a new vegan/vegetarian restaurant located in Washington Heights. It bills itself as a “Hip Mediterranean to-go Falafel Bar NYC.” Previously known as Forever Coffee Bar, the eatery rebranded itself when the owner noticed a lack of plant-based restaurants in the neighborhood. Guests can order homemade falafel and jackfruit shawarma over quinoa from the takeout counter, or they can sit at one of the outdoor tables to dine al fresco. Enticing sides include hummus and baba ganoush.

2. Yellow Rose: after spending years as a pop-up restaurant, the delicious creation of two San Antonians has found a permanent home in the East Village. Yellow Rose specializes in Texas-influenced fare, including daily bean and cheese tacos served on homemade tortillas. Offerings such as specialty soups will rotate based on what is currently in-season. The drinks menu is especially tempting, including everything from Topo Chico to a Michelada Kit to iced hibiscus tea.

3. Mao Mao: the new restaurant Mao Mao centers around Thai drinking snacks, called kub klaem, and the atmosphere that exists when you indulge in such treats. Take a step back in time with this restaurant and enjoy classic Thai movies while eating street snacks including Thai-Chinese chive dumplings and crunchy fried red chilies. There is an extensive beer selection on tap, too. The two-story eatery evokes a bygone era in Thailand, with market lights and vintage décor.

It’s been a tough year. Show your support for a new restaurant and call for take-out soon!