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Like many restaurants across the region, Tuscany has struggled through the coronavirus pandemic.
“It is kind of [been] survival mode,” owner Dejan Medanic said.
When Medanic launched his restaurant in summer 2019, it seemed like his longtime dream of serving people food was going to be a big success, he said. The strip the restaurant is in was constantly flooded with foot traffic from a Walmart Neighborhood Market.
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Tuscany closed its doors for several weeks, and when it reopened, the hardships continued.
After laying off staff during the hiatus, Tuscany started back up with limited hours and a skeleton crew of Medanic; his daughter Claudia, who worked as the server; and Juliana Henry, who worked as the chef.
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Throughout the pandemic, Tuscany has adapted by signing up to platforms such as Uber Eats and DoorDash, creating a patio for outdoor seating, and bringing in live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
One of the things Medanic envisioned for his restaurant when he opened it was to establish a family-style bond with the customers and for them to see it as more than just a place to get food.
While that has been difficult to maintain during the pandemic, the staff at Tuscany is optimistic better days are ahead.
“We try to keep a happy, fun, uplifting atmosphere,” Claudia said. “When you come into this restaurant, we want to give [off] that atmosphere. We’re having fun. Come have fun with us.”
Tuscany Italian Bistro, 12215 Grant Road, Ste. E, Cypress. 281-826-3485. www.tuscanycypress.com