As the COVID-19 pandemic swept the United States, restaurants closed their doors—with an approximated 5.5 million restaurant industry workers losing their jobs in April alone, according to the National Restaurant Association. But if Americans had it rough, New Yorkers had it especially hard. In a city where restaurants account for 9% of employment, restaurants have to be creative to stay afloat.
As we slowly test the waters, we look forward to sharing with you the best of what New York cuisine has to offer.
Today, we want to introduce you to Alexa Matthews—a born and raised New Yorker, a professional eater, and the founder of Eating NYC.
“My account is all about showing you the latest and greatest in New York—it’s my duty to be your loyal, trustworthy guide,” writes Matthews. “A lot of my followers are young women in New York, and I’m posting my pictures through a young, female lens. Integrity is really important—I go to restaurants of interest because I want to keep my finger on the pulse, which often means paying for the food, and if I like it, I tell my followers about it.”
Listed as one of the top 30 people in food by AdWeek in 2016 and featured by CNNMoney, Wall Street Journal, and Cosmopolitan, Matthews has amassed over the years some 320,000 followers on social media.
“I fell in love with the industry and got a bit more experience in restaurant and chef marketing and PR roles before making the exciting decision a year ago to go full-time with Eating NYC. And it’s been great!” she exclaims.
As restaurants across the city are forging ahead with reopening plans, we’re here to take note of Matthews’ recommendations and reviews.
