Tourism officials in Dublin have come up with an unconventional solution to try to try to boost local restaurants, a sector that has been significantly harmed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Their idea? Encouraging residents to picnic in local green spaces with takeout food – an alternative for people who are still uncomfortable with dining in a restaurant but want to support local businesses.

Through its new “Picnic Packs” program, the Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau has partnered with 25 area restaurants, including Mezzo, Cap City Diner and Rail Burger. Participating restaurants have created special picnic menus or are highlighting picnic-friendly options.

“We’ve been hearing from our restaurant partners that with the capacity issues they have – especially some in our historic area who already have a tight space to navigate – that they’re still really heavily relying on takeout and delivery to support their business,” said Sara Blatnik, the tourism organization’s marketing director, referring to the social distancing requirements that require tables to be spaced out.

The bureau has also created an outdoor dining map, highlighting the best spaces in town for picnics and their proximity to local restaurants.

“Participants are encouraged to order a meal to-go and head to a dining area in downtown Dublin or sent up a scenic picnic in one of Dublin’s 60-plus parks,” according to a news release.

Staff members have offered their own personal ideas for good picnic locations.

Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Scott Dring recommended Dublin Springs Park, calling it “a secluded and peaceful getaway on the Scioto River.”

For Blatnik, she recommended people picnic at the Bridge Park Pocket Park between Bridge Park Avenue and Mooney Parking Garage. The area has permanent tables and chairs and is located nearby several popular restaurants.