Restaurateur uses humor to diffuse difficult times

Gallows humor, the kind police officers and first responders use to stay sane when facing insane situations, has made its way to hospitality — courtesy of the coronavirus pandemic.

The latest example comes from John Horne, the affable owner of Anna Maria Oyster Bar, a popular chain with four Manatee County locations. Like many other restaurants in the region, all the AMOB locations are serving takeout, Horne noted in his March 20 weekly letter to customers.  

In addition to delivery, while the dining room is closed, Horne notes: “this may be the silver lining that I'm trying really hard to find. … We can even offer you margaritas to-go! Hey, we'll take what we can get.”