Restaurants around the metro area are starting to reopen for dine-in service. (Gov. Polis says all Colorado restaurants can officially do so on Wednesday, May 27.) Kudos to all the business-owners and hungry patrons who have been so patient. Like you, we’re hungry to return to some of our favorite spots for food that’s fresh out of the oven or off the grill. Hey, we love take-out as much as the next person, but some dishes just aren’t the same reheated at home.
Food trucks are also allowed to restart. Bars and other establishments that do not serve food will need to wait awhile longer and remain closed. Breweries that operate like a restaurant or partner with a restaurant or food truck, may also reopen.
The Colorado Department of Public Health has issued its guidelines for restaurants to get back in operation. Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas and Jefferson counties have all agreed to use the state guidelines.
There are a ton of rules to wade through, so we decided to put on your reading glasses and give you an idea of what the new normal will look like and what you can expect.
One size does not fit all. While every restaurant — fast food, casual service or fine dining — has to follow guidelines, each will do it in its own way.
That means, you may have to learn different systems for different restaurants or chains. But we have faith in you MHOTC readers. Bargain hunters are by their very nature truly smart.
Indoor Dine-In Service
Restaurants must allow no more than 50% of the occupancy limit with a maximum of 50 diners.
Tables will be 6 feet apart or more.
Each party of diners is limited to 8 people or fewer at the same table or at tables close together. If you have a group larger than eight, expect to be broken up into smaller groups.
Patrons in different parties must be a minimum of 6 feet apart.
Restaurants are encouraged to take reservations. Waiting parties must not gather at the door and are encouraged to wait in their cars or other outdoor areas until seating is available. (We’re not sure how this is going to work at small fast-food and quick-service spots, either.)
You can’t seat yourself, because every table has to be disinfected before a new diner is seated.
Menus will either be disposable single-use, menu boards or online menus you can view on your smartphone.
No more self-serve drink dispensers, buffets or salad bars. (We’ll miss those automated soda machines that offer 30+ choices).
Be prepared to dress in layers. Restaurants should ensure maximum ventilation by opening windows and minimizing air conditioning. You may need a sweater if it’s chilly outside and the windows are open or strip down a bit if we’re having a heat wave.
No communal seating.
No seating in the bar, unless it is not being used to prepare food and/or drinks.
Certain tables and booths will be marked closed for use.
Restaurants can have the option for customers to “sign in” with their name, phone number and/or email so they can be notified if an exposure occurs.
You will find more contactless payment or prepayment options.
Restaurant employees including servers must wear face coverings.
Customers may be asked to wear face coverings when walking to and from their table or to the restrooms.
Restroom must be disinfected every hour (okay, we’re totally on-board with this one…forever).
Hand sanitizer will be available at the check-in area and through the restaurant.
Outdoor Dine-In Service
Basically, everything listed above, plus…
Tables can be set in adjacent or nonadjacent public or private spaces such as parking lots.
Patrons in different parties must be a minimum of 6 feet apart.
Tables must be 6 feet apart or more.
Servers and other employees must wear face coverings.
Tables, chairs and other shared surfaces must be disinfected and deep-cleaned between seatings.
Restaurants are encouraged to continue curbside pick-up and delivery.
We realize many MHOTC readers won’t be the first in the door because they just aren’t comfortable doing so. For those that are, be sure to send us an email or drop a comment below on what you find in this brave new world of dining.
Linda Kelm says
Do you have any idea what a “single” diner is to do with these limitations?
Thanks,
Linda
Laura says
Linda – You just make a reservation (or say there is only 1 in your party) for 1 person and they will seat you are a table for 2. – Laura
Paul Mahan says
Ate lunch at Olive Garden in Denver West on Thursday, around 1:30 pm. Everything was FINE. Masks to and from seating. Walk-in ordering ok. C’mon folks, help these owners out, if you are able.