BOISE — Recently, Downtown Boise has had more new restaurants pop up. Pam Eaton, President and CEO of the Idaho Lodging and Restaurant Association, says there are not enough employees to go around for all those restaurants.
"Everyone who wants to work has found jobs," said Eaton.
Some restaurants are using other avenues to get away with less employees.
"More and more electronics, so payment where you pay at your table," said Eaton.
Eaton also says offering extra benefits and a good work environment can help retain and draw in employees.
Wanda Martinat, co-owner of the Stagecoach Inn and Goldy's, says she has noticed a trend in the restaurant industry as a whole in the Treasure Valley.
"The working pool is really slim because we have so many restaurants. We have so many businesses period and we have a lot of people working those jobs. The people who are moving in or retired have already worked, so they're not looking to work a job," said Martinat.
She says she has been in need of service workers periodically, but she has a group of loyal staff like her employee, Kelly Rinner.
"Basically putting out really good product for our customers, so I really enjoy that," said Rinner.
Martinat says the key to the restaurant industry is being patient.
"If you know who you are and what kind of restaurant you are, you're going to be here for the long run. You have to make it worth everybody's while. A employee and a owner is like a contract and if you take care of them, they'll take care of you," said Martinat.
If you are interested in a service job, you can check the Idaho Department of Labor website.
