As the stalemate continues over the reopening of federal government, restaurants in Washington, D.C. are offering discounted meals and drinks to government employees whose incomes have been disrupted by the shutdown.
Fast-food joints and fine-dining outlets of chef Jose Andres are giving freebies and offering deep discounts to government employees who are not receiving paychecks due to the federal government shutdown. The deals are mostly extended during off hours. In fact, anyone can benefit from the discounts as long as they show an official government ID.
Government employees are getting a free pie at the pizza chain &pizza from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., although there are conflicting reports about its availability. A free sandwich can be grabbed by workers at bars of Jose Andres’ four upscale restaurants in D.C. between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Ok #DC, now that everyone is back #Shutdown special begins. Lunch special of a sandwich and N/A beverage $6 from 11-2pm M-F. It’s not quite a $5 foot long, But we also promise not to change the special while everyone is furloughed. Gov ID required please. pic.twitter.com/umqs40NFz8
— DC Reynolds (@DCReynoldsBar) January 3, 2019
Another family-style restaurant chain run by a multi-concept operator in New York City, the D.C. branch of Carmine’s is extending a free order of meatball sliders from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Government employees can also have a cocktail during business hours at the discounted happy hour rates at Carmine’s.
Similarly, a local hot spot, District Doughnut, is offering a free cup of coffee with any food order. Baked by Yael is also offering free java, as well as free bagel sandwiches and cups of soup until they run out of supplies.
Furloughed government workers and their guests are also granted a 25 percent discount by Ornery Beer Co. Catch 22 is another restaurant joining the campaign by giving a 15 percent discount any time excluding during happy hours.
As for drinks, the D.C. branch of the City Winery food and music chain is reducing its wine prices for government employees, offering a glass for $1.
The Capital Lounge is offering idled workers drinks for $5. The drinks are curiously named Nothing Really Mattis, Mexico Will Pay for This and Border Wall Banger.