Love Local was started by Sydney restaurant owner Hamilton Kings as Covid-19 social restrictions effectively shuttered his then dine-in only Potts Point restaurant Honkas (Bar + Eats). Since launching 6 weeks ago with three restaurants, the website ordering platform now includes 20 food and beverage partners and delivers in Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay, Rushcutters Bay and Woolloomooloo.

Food and drink partners on the platform include Pizza Autentico, Honkas (Bar + Eats), Melo’s Italian, Et Al, The Roosevelt and Penny’s Cheese Shop.

Love Local has been a hit with restaurants and customers alike. “We’ve experienced massive growth, with a 60% uptick in the last week alone. We never dreamed we would be so popular or be able to expand so soon after launching in March” said Kings.

Self interest may have driven the realisation of the need to pivot his business, but Kings says his local platform is also a win for the Sydney food scene and local community. “When I realised I needed to pivot my business, starting a delivery platform seemed the best way to keep my business afloat and retain my staff during the downturn. Being able to help other businesses stay afloat during the pandemic and beyond makes the decision to start Love Local that little bit sweeter. It’s a win win” said Kings

As a locally raised, owned and managed platform, with much lower fees than the big food delivery players, restaurants are eager to join and reap the benefits.

Hamilton Kings – Love Local

Love Local charges just 12% commission, including GST. This is compared with 33%, including GST, by the big players. “We are returning more money to restaurants, amplifying pressure on the big players to lower their fees, and helping businesses survive Covid-19 social distancing” said Kings

“As a locally raised, owned and managed platform, with much lower fees than the big food delivery players, restaurants are eager to join and reap the benefits” said Kings.

One restaurant which has been on the platform since it started is Potts Point restaurant Melo’s Italian. “Joining Love Local was the easiest of decisions and one that’s already paying off. We love being part of Love Local and look forward to the platform continuing to grow and deliver our food to more people” said Michael Bradley of Melo’s.

On average, Love Local returns $16.07 more to restaurants than major competitors, based on the platform’s average order value of $64.

Order your Love Local  food  here for lunch or dinner.