Bake and shark sales bringing life back to Maracas Beach

As Government has started allowing some sectors, particularly restaurants, to reopen after being closed to curb the spread of covid19, some degree of normalcy is being seen in some areas. One such place is Maracas Beach where bake and shark vendors are starting to serve the public once again.

Although most of them remained closed when Newsday visited on Friday, one vendor – Giselle Ferguson – said things started off slowly earlier in the week when restrictions were lifted, but more people were coming out in the last few days. Restaurants and food businesses are only allowed to offer a take-away service.

"On Monday we had few sales, people were staying at home respecting physical distancing," she said. “Between Thursday and Friday, the situation changed a little. Visitors know that the beach is closed, but that we sell the best bake and shark and they come from different areas just to buy it.”

She spoke about the sanitary measures she has implemented.

“The physical distancing is the most important thing, so on the floor we clearly mark the two meters that must be between each client. We also put up notices about the use of masks, we installed hand sanitiser, we removed the condiments from the external tables. We are giving those in special containers.”

Customers are also being encouraged to call, place their orders and pick them up.

Ferguson only has half the complement of her 12-member staff working right now.

Michael Pierre, another food vendor said he has also put measures in place to ensure the safety of his customers and staff.

"The vast majority of customers buy our food and park in front of the beach to eat, then leave. Everyone knows that they cannot stay in the restaurant or on the beach," he said.

One patron, Omar Perdemo, went to Maracas just to get his bake and shark.

"We came from St Augustine. We went out to do some shopping and we took advantage of going to Maracas. It is a great opportunity for a good meal," he said.