An act of kindness by a Houston couple is helping the staff at a downtown restaurant get by during the coronavirus pandemic.

On Monday, a couple who regularly dine at Irma’s Southwest came in for dinner — and left behind a $9,400 tip.

“We were amazed by their generosity. We didn't expect it. They went above and beyond what was necessary,” said owner Louis Galvan.

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The couple, who chose to remain anonymous, paid $90.12 for their meal, then left $1,900 in cash and $7,500 on a credit card as a tip, Galvan said.

A handwritten note on the credit card receipt reads, "hold tip to pay your guys over the next few weeks."

The large sum will be split between the restaurant’s 30 waiters and kitchen staff, Galvan said. “They will get around $300 each.”

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On Monday evening, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner ordered all bars and clubs countywide to close for 15 days.

As restaurants struggle to keep the lights on while also protecting public health some, like Irma’s Southwest, are offering food orders to go.

“We had around 50 to go orders yesterday,” Galvan said. “We are not worried about profitability right now. We are in survival mode.”

That includes helping others.

“If there’s anyone who does not have food to eat, or just needs a glass of water, they are welcome to come by. We are here for our community,” Galvan said.

marcy.deluna@chron.com