Want to dine out at Coast restaurants during coronavirus? Everything you need to know
Gov. Tate Reeves’ most recent coronavirus “safer at home” order allows dining rooms and bar areas to reopen at Mississippi restaurants.
The decision came just three days after Mississippi’s biggest spike in COVID-19 cases. On Friday, Reeves held off on reopening restaurants because of the increase in cases and deaths. He moved forward with easing restrictions at a Monday press conference.
As Gulf Coast restaurants prepare to open their doors to dine-in customers again, things won’t look the same while going out to eat.
The Sun Herald answers key questions about dining amid coronavirus with information from Reeves’ order.
Will restaurants have normal dining hours?
- Restaurants may set their hours of operation for in-house dining, but must close to the public by 10 p.m. daily.
Can I eat inside restaurants?
- Guests may dine inside or opt for outdoor seating.
- Restaurants may only serve guests at 50% capacity.
Can I eat with a large party?
- Depending on seating restrictions, small groups can eat at restaurants as long as social distancing guidelines are followed.
- Groups larger than six guests are not allowed.
Will employees have to wear masks?
- Employers must provide food service employees a cloth mask to wear while working.
Are bars allowed to reopen?
- Establishments that do not offer food are not permitted to reopen. Live music is also not allowed.
Will restaurants follow the latest coronavirus guidelines?
- Employees shall be trained in minimizing the spread of COVID-19, including the importance of personal hygiene and frequent hand washing, sneezing and coughing etiquette, PPE training and safe food-handling procedures.
Can I pay my bill with cash?
- Accepting cash is permitted, but using technology like credit or debit cards is encouraged.
Can I order alcohol at a restaurant?
- Bars inside of restaurants are allowed to reopen, and alcohol may be served.
This story was originally published May 4, 2020 at 7:56 PM.
