Restaurants open their doors for service for first time in 45 days

Reporter: Nicole Lauren
Published: Updated:
Credit: WINK News

For the first time in 45 days, you can go out to breakfast and be waited on at a table.

Businesses told WINK News that even though they can only operate at 25 percent, it’s better than nothing.

“We’re probably going to try to be ready to go by 10:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. for lunch,” said Shannon Yates, owner of Nevermind Awesome Bar and Eatery in Cape Coral.

Outdoor seating is a huge boost in business for restaurants like Nevermind and Duval Street Grill in Cape Coral.

But the big requirement for all businesses across the state: tables must be six feet apart.

“I moved all the tables on the patio and we bought a permit and I have four more tables on the sidewalk,” said Vollen Loucks, chef-partner at Duval Street Grill.

With an anticipated surge in business, restaurant owners are actually hiring more staff.

“We’re looking to hire another 10 people this week,” Yates said.

Lee County and Sanibel are allowing restaurants to extend outdoor seating areas, even into the parking lots.

Collier County is expected to take up a similar measure in a few days.

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