The COVID-19 pandemicCOVID-19 pandemic exposed critical vulnerabilities within food supply networks, causing widespread disruptions throughout social and economic systems. Through mixed-methods analysis of independent restaurants in Gainesville, Florida, this research examines how these establishments navigated unprecedented operational challenges, focusing on both systemic adaptations and human relationships within supply networks. Our semantic network analysis of the interviews identifies the co-occurrence of themes associated with operational responses and community relationships. At the same time, survey data demonstrates specific strategic adaptations including menu modifications (65% of establishments), delivery service adoption (80%), and outdoor dining expansion (49% increase). Our study addresses a crucial gap in understanding how local independent restaurants maintain operational continuity during systemic disruptions. While existing research has explored supply network resilience in large-scale operations, the unique challenges and adaptations of independent restaurants during the pandemic provide valuable insights into resilience-building at the community level. Our findings reveal the critical interplay between vertical supply relationships and horizontalHorizontal supply networks peer networks in fostering resilience. The study's findings contribute to both theoretical frameworks of network resilience and practical strategies for enhancing supply network adaptability. By examining responses to COVID-19 disruptions, we identify actionable approaches for strengthening food system resilience against future challenges, whether arising from pandemics, natural disasters, economic instability, or geopolitical tensions. These insights demonstrate how local business adaptations can inform broader strategies for maintaining critical infrastructure during periods of systemic stress.