“It’s exciting but scary at the same time!” exclaims Debra & Edson Nava, owners of La Mexicanada, Bradford.
Premier Doug Ford confirmed yesterday that licenced establishments could open their patios as early as Friday.
La Mexicanada confirmed they have already been preparing to re-open since the day they closed.
“We’re already full for reservations this Friday,” said Debra. “Max capacity at each table will be six people.”
The popular authentic Mexican restaurant – with a small patio, but looking to expand – will be using empty tables to keep dining guests six feet apart from one another.
Only one washroom at the back end of the restaurant will be available to patrons with a busser hired to continuously clean and sanitize between each customer’s lavatory use.
“It’s definitely going to be a learning lesson,” admits Debra. “But as long as we keep cleaning, we are just happy to be (partially) open again!”
Bradford’s St. Louis Bar & Grill’s patio will also be open in time for this weekend.
“All our tables are spaced out and we have directional arrows all over the floor guiding customers,” explains manager, Amber Morrison.
The popular wing joint’s L-shaped patio will be able to accommodate approximately 40 diners and will be taking “walk-up reservations” on a first come, first serve basis.
Owner of Bradford’s Chuck’s Roadhouse admits he is still unsure of the details but plans to have his patio open by the weekend.
Among the many regulations outlined by the government, all establishments will be required to keep a logbook record of all customer’s names and contact information, in case of any outbreaks.
But while some owners were encouraged by the news to reopen patios, not all bars and restaurants are ready for this next stage.
Don Cherry’s Sports Grill will not be among those patios to open unfortunately.
“Although they’ve taken down a lot of the ‘red tape’… there’s still lots left to happen,” comments owner Eric Fex. “With all costs associated, you could sooner lose money if people don’t aggressively come out to support.”
Similarly, Made in Mexico and the Village Inn will not be opening their patio anytime soon.
“Our patio is far too small to justify opening under the current situation,” states Village Inn owner Steve Dykie. “We are currently working on alternatives with local government and the AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario).”
Michael Disano, Manager of Economic Development for Bradford, said the town is exploring a “patio program” for restaurant owners who do not have a patio available.
“Once council looks at its options at the next council meeting, we can move forward with things,” he said. “We’re doing everything in our power to support local businesses, including looking at what other jurisdictions are doing.”
Disano added the town is looking at opening parking lot space for additional outdoor dining with the goal of expediting the planning process.
“We’re working on finding solutions (the town) can implement quickly that will be viable for businesses,” explains Disano.
Amendments to the Liquor Licence Act would permit licensed establishments to quickly add an extension to their patio to allow for social distancing.
“People will have to think outside the box,” comments Fex. “This isn’t going to happen overnight.”
Bradford's Boston Pizza noted they will not be opening until at least Stage 3 of the province's re-opening plan.
Unfortunately, regions like Newmarket (York Region) were not included in the stage 2 re-openings; which means Bradford patios may potentially see a lot more traffic in the coming weeks.