Reopening: Outdoor Dining Returns To San Francisco's Famed Restaurant Scene
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- After months of being limited to take-out service, San Francisco's struggling restaurant scene got the first real signs of hope of a rebound from the financial woes caused by the COVID-19 shutdown Friday as officials allowed them to reopen for outdoor dining service.
But the easing of restrictions did not come soon enough for many dining favorites, who have been forced to shut their doors for good, and the order still will keep local bars from reopening their doors.
"The ability for restaurants to soon seat patrons outside will definitely increase the chances we can survive financially," said Laurie Thomas, Executive Director, Golden Gate Restaurant Association.
Under San Francisco's Shared Spaces Program, restaurant owners can ask permission to use a portion of the public right-of-way, such as sidewalks, parking lanes, streets, or other nearby public spaces like parks and plazas for outdoor dining.
Among those planning for Friday openings were Balboa Cafe, Caffe Trieste and Tacolicious. Among those set to reopen next week will be Epic Steak, the Waterbar, Piperade and Bix.
Beginning Monday, June 15, other businesses may reopen their storefronts for indoor retail and can also apply for Shared Spaces permits.
"Opening our restaurants is a great step that will help our small businesses that are struggling, our workers who need paychecks, and our residents who are ready to safely sit outside and enjoy a meal," Breed said in a press release. "We have supported our small businesses with economic grants and assistance throughout the pandemic and will continue provide health guidance to help keep their employees and customers safe."
Before establishing an outdoor dining area, officials said, business owners will be asked to comply with a number new and existing requirements, including:
- Social Distancing Protocol in the Shelter in Place Order issued on June 1, 2020.
- Food Preparation or Delivery Essential Businesses (Directive 2020-05) including for takeout or delivery.
- Patrons will be required to remain outside the outdoor dining establishment and may enter the establishment only for limited purposes such as to access a restroom, to access an outdoor space that is only accessible by traveling through the restaurant, or to order at an indoor counter.
- Tables must be limited to 6 customers, except for members of the same household. People in the same party seated at the same table do not have to be six feet apart.
- Customers must wear face coverings until seated and any time they leave the table, such as to use a restroom.
- Establishments will be required to comply with strict cleaning and disinfecting protocols.
