COVID-19 hit, the tables were empty and Malak knew the location that relied heavily on tourism – was on borrowed time.At the height of summer pre-pandemic, Malak employed up to 35 staff.
Since September of 2020, he’s let 25 go amid sinking sales.“It’s sad, you go from $22,000 a day to $200, $500 – how can you make any money?” said Malak.In May of last year, The Holy Crab was also forced to shut down.The owner of the Louisiana-inspired seafood restaurant, which amassed a loyal following in its three years on Robson Street, told Global News he didn’t want to run away from his obligations – but fell victim to a landlord who refused to participate in the government’s rent relief program.