1. **Smart Ways to Enjoy Restaurant Meals Safely During COVID-19**
2. **Navigating the Dining Scene in a Pandemic**
3. **How to Eat Out Safely in the Age of COVID-19**
4. **Making the Most of Dining Out While Staying Safe**
5. **A Practical Guide to Eating Out Amid COVID-19**
6. **Dining Out During COVID-19: What You Need to Know**
7. **Savoring Restaurant Experiences with Safety in Mind**
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The restaurant industry has taken a hard hit from COVID-19—possibly more than any other sector. Over the past couple of months, many restaurants either switched to takeout-only service or shut down completely. Now, as states begin to reopen, restaurants are figuring out how to operate safely in this new environment.
One of the biggest challenges is finding the right balance between protecting employees and keeping customers safe. After being cooped up at home for so long, many people are eager to eat out again—but they want to do it safely.
While there are federal, state, and local guidelines in place, diners also have a role to play in staying safe. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind if you’re planning to eat out as restrictions ease.
Most restaurants have introduced new safety measures for their staff, either because it’s required or because they want to go the extra mile. Restaurants already follow strict food safety rules, and those standards have become even tougher.
If you’re unsure about what a restaurant is doing to keep things safe, check their website or social media. If you don’t find the information there, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.
If you’re still a bit hesitant about dining indoors, look for places that offer outdoor seating. Eating outside is generally safer, especially on sunny days. Sunlight can help kill viruses, and fresh air is better than being in a closed space with recycled air. When making a reservation, ask for an outdoor table.
There’s some debate about wearing masks at restaurants, but it’s usually a good idea—especially if it helps you feel more comfortable. You can wear a mask while waiting for your table or when talking to your server, particularly if you can’t maintain a six-foot distance. Even though you’ll need to take it off to eat, wearing it at other times still offers some protection.
Restaurants are doing a lot to keep their spaces clean, but you can take extra precautions too. Bring disinfectant wipes to clean your menu, chair, or table, and carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to use throughout your visit.
Even before the pandemic, self-serve areas in restaurants were known to harbor germs. If you’re concerned about safety, avoid drink stations and items like pre-cut lemons. It’s also best to steer clear of buffets or hot bars for now. Instead, order food that’s prepared and served directly to you.
As we all adjust to a new normal, taking a few simple steps can help us feel safer and more at ease—especially when we’re out enjoying a meal.