What to Know About Dine-in Restaurants Amid COVID-19

What started off as a rumor back in December 2019, quickly turned into a global pandemic. As a result, COVID-19 has completely changed the way we socialize. Many restaurants were closed as people were unable to visit public spaces.

Things are now getting back to a new normal, with a whole host of changes in place.

To find out more about the changes made to dine-in restaurants, be sure to read the below guide. This way, you and your friends will know exactly what to expect when you finally venture outside again.

COVID-19 Effects on Restaurants

Due to COVID-19, there are a wide range of new rules that restaurants and diners must abide to. These rules may seem unusual but they are in place to help reduce the spread of the virus.

Some of these rules involve social distancing boundaries and basic hygiene procedures.

If you plan to visit a restaurant anytime soon, here is a detailed list of the current rules in place.

Masks

The first thing that you need to keep in mind when eating out is that people will be wearing masks.

In many countries, you are now required by law to wear a mask in a public space. If it is a mandatory rule in your area, and you’re in violation, you may get arrested.

This rule now applies to everyone in the restaurant, including diners, wait staff, and chefs.

Changes in Sitting Positions

The other thing that you need to watch out for is the new seating formations. Seating will vary at every restaurant, so it is useful to be prepared. You will usually find that chairs and tables have been placed up to 1.5 meters apart.

It doesn’t matter whether you come from the same household or not, the seating positions are in place to maintain social distancing between customers.

Cleanliness

As advised by WHO, the other way that you can re-open a restaurant is by adhering to cleaning rules. Even before, restaurants had to ensure that strict hygiene measures were in place. Currently, the measures require staff to disinfect the tables after every meal.

You may be kept waiting to ensure that the next table is sanitized before you get to use it. This way, you can feel rest assured that you won’t catch germs from previous diners.

Of course, it’s not just about tables and seats either. Door knobs, counters, and everything else that is normally touched by clients has to remain sanitized at all times.

No More Big Tables

If you’re hoping to meet with a large group of people, you will have to wait a little longer.

To help ensure social distancing rules stay in place, dine-in restaurants are unable to use large tables. It is impossible for restaurants to safely implement social distancing rules with larger tables.

Although it is frustrating, remember that these rules are paramount to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Less Cash

Many countries have advised against the use of cash, as another way to curb the spread of the virus.

It is believed that actual cash can carry the virus. As a result, most restaurants will use cards or other modes of payment instead.

Be sure to bring a card along to your next restaurant reservation.

Conclusion

The effects of COVID-19 have been felt all across the globe, with restaurants not being spared.

When eating out at dine-in restaurants, you should expect to find a lot of changes. Be sure to respect the rules in place and ask the staff if you are unsure.

Although it may seem a little unnerving at first, these new rules are in place so that you can have a safe and enjoyable dining experience post COVID-19.