LOCAL

Lombardo's opens marketplace and drive-in theater

Anastasia E. Lennon
The Patriot Ledger
Lombardo's in Randolph has repurposed the function hall as a marketplace and drive-in theater.

RANDOLPH — Though outdoor restaurants and retail establishments have gotten the OK to slowly resume operations, large-capacity venues such as Lombardo's in Randolph are still weeks, if not months, away from being allowed to reopen. Rather than sit and wait for an uncertain future, the Lombardo's team decided to pivot their services with a new marketplace and drive-in theater that will allow them to serve the community and, they hope, survive.

"We've spent the first two months of the COVID-19 crisis really focused on giving back and preparing meals for healthcare and front line workers," said general manager David Lombardo. "As that started to wind down, we said 'We've been cooking well, let's see if the general public would gravitate towards that.' "

Lombardo says this pandemic has been "devastating" for the hospitality industry. The event hall been closed since March 16 as gatherings of over 10 people continue to be banned.

The marketplace, an online shop where people can order fresh produce, homemade sausages, prepared meals and cocktail kits, has been in the works for about a month.

"We're very passionate about cooking and food and taking care of the community," he said, adding that Lombardo's started with a family butcher shop in 1927. "Let's go back to our roots and get back to where we started."

Customers have until noon on Wednesdays to place an order for a contactless pick-up on Friday at the front of the venue.

As for the drive-in movie theater, Lombardo expects that to launch by June 25, pending approval from the town.

He says about 100 to 140 cars will be able to fit in the parking lot for family-friendly double-features that will be projected on the white wall of the building. Tickets can be ordered online, as can concessions like hot dogs, popcorn, candy and soda, which will be delivered to the car safely.

"We think its a great opportunity for families to be able to get out and enjoy something outside home but still remain safe," he said.

They are hoping to make the drive-in theater a weekly event, if not more frequently, and use the equipment to host other events, such as graduation celebrations or reunions where they can project montage videos.

"I encourage everyone to go out and support local restaurants as they begin to reopen," Lombardo said. "We've all been working really hard to provide a safe environment. Without their support, we're in a lot of trouble."

To order from the Lombardo's Marketplace, visit ToGo.lombardos.com.