ORLANDO, Fla. – Big Fin Seafood Kitchen surprised its employees with a cash bonus upon returning to work. Like most restaurants, Big Fin had to shut down when the coronavirus pandemic hit and had to furlough its 35 employees in the process.
For Melody Pierce, a server at the restaurant for more than two years, it wasn’t easy. “I was very concerned,” Pierce said. “I have four children, and I have a husband who was injured at work, so he hasn’t been able to work as well.
So needless to say, we were in a trying situation.” Big Fin was able to keep the lights on, thanks to take out orders and tips.
After the first weekend, general manager Michael Venutolo proposed the idea to set aside the tip money and give it back to the staff. “We as a