How To Be a Good Customer or Guest in Albuquerque in 2021

1. Be Patient (The chile is hot, but your temper should stay cool) 

As we all learn to navigate the new ways of doing business, please be patient and respectful to employees. Many of them are operating with limited staff and resources.

2. Plan Ahead

Be sure to plan ahead and allow for extra time when you go out. Everyone is eager to visit their favorite places after a year of isolation, and the demand for service is very high. We encourage you to check online or call ahead of time for any potential changes in hours or operations. 

3. Look for Signs and Other Communications 

Be on the lookout for signs and markers to direct you and notify you of any potential changes in rules, hours and operations. Be respectful of what businesses expect of you while you are in that space. If you make online bookings or reservations to visit a business, check your email before you visit to see if you received information with detailed guidelines about proper protocol. 

4. Stay Home if you Feel Sick

If you are exhibiting any symptoms of illness, it is best to stay home. Monitor your health and avoid exposure to others as much as possible. You should also stay home if anyone in your household is feeling sick or has symptoms.

5. Be on Time (even in the land of mañana) 

Working with limited resources, many businesses are requiring reservations or selling tickets. Make sure you plan ahead and arrive at your designated time to avoid any conflicts and rescheduling issues. If you are not sure if the business you are visiting is requiring a reservation, we encourage you to call ahead of your arrival. 

6. Know That Dining Out Might Be Different (Don't worry, you'll still get that green chile cheeseburger) 

A few tips will help ensure you have an enjoyable experience the next time you head out to enjoy your favorite local dishes.

• Call or check online ahead of time for reservation requirements, potential wait times and hours. 
• Respect the restaurant staff and have patience. Whether it is a new seating arrangement, a longer than normal wait time, or new protocols at your favorite restaurant, know that the staff is working hard to serve you in the safest, fastest and most efficient way possible. 
• Try to place your entire party’s order all at once. This allows your server to help as many people as efficiently as possible. 

7. Tip Generously, if Possible

Even with reopening, many businesses are struggling to keep their doors open. They lost a lot of business during the past year, and limited staffing and resources may mean they are still having trouble. Also, many of their workers lost their jobs for a few months leading up to reopening. And now staff may have reduced hours and serve fewer customers each day. If you are able, consider tipping a little more than usual. Every little bit helps.

8. Be Compassionate

This has been a difficult time for everyone. And as we learn to navigate it, please remember that we don't know the struggles everyone around us has been dealing with in regard to this pandemic. It is important that we respect each other and show compassion until things get back to normal … and always!