Pandemic-strapped downtown restaurants celebrate return of Jets hockey
CTV
Puck drop for the start of the Winnipeg Jets preseason at the Canada Life Centre isn't just exciting news for hockey fans but for restaurants in the downtown area too.
Puck drop for the start of the Winnipeg Jets preseason at the Canada Life Centre isn't just exciting news for hockey fans but for restaurants in the downtown area too.
Across the street from Canada Life Centre, Browns Socialhouse is getting ready for its first Jets rush in almost two years.
Justin Guest, the restaurant's general manager, said events like Jets games feel like a return to normal.
"It's a big part of our atmosphere to really cater to this type of market, and these events, so we're really looking forward to it," Guest said.
COVID-19 has taken a toll on restaurants and bars in the downtown area, and Sunday's Jets game is the first game since March of 2020 that the general public can attend.
Guest said he's expecting a big turnout.
"We're going to see a few hundred today. I think it's a really exciting crowd who want to get out. We want to get as many as we can in here within limits as long as we can continue to be safe."