Here’s what you can do to help:

• Eat out at your favourite places – the simplest way to show love and make sure they stay open.
• Book ahead: it helps with staffing and reduces food waste.
• Got restaurant vouchers? Don’t leave them in a drawer – use them in January.
• Make no-shows a thing of the past. They cost restaurants dearly (and really sting).
• Try to understand price rises; they’re not personal – it’s inflation.
• If something’s not right, tell your server politely rather than venting online. It’s fairer, and you’re more likely to get what you want. (Here’s the Beeb on how to do it better.)

It’s not all doom and gloom. How could it be with the passion, innovation, hope and new openings in this city. And look – we know things may not be easy for you either. It’s January and, well, the world. So we’re sending a cosy winter hug to all our readers (if that’s not too weird).