1. **Smart Ways to Enjoy a Meal Out Safely During COVID-19**
2. **Navigating Restaurant Visits in the Age of COVID-19**
3. **How to Dine Out Responsibly Amid a Pandemic**
4. **Eating Out in a COVID-Conscious World**
5. **Making the Most of Dining Out While Staying Safe**
6. **A Practical Guide to Eating Out During COVID Times**
7. **Savoring Restaurant Meals with Safety in Mind**
8. **Dining Out with Care: COVID-19 Edition**
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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 adapt to the new normal.
One of the biggest challenges is finding a balance between keeping both employees and 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 for restaurants, 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. Food safety has always been a priority, but now the standards are even stricter.
If you’re unsure about what a restaurant is doing to protect its guests, check their website or social media. If you can’t find the information there, don’t hesitate to reach out directly.
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 at ease. 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 remove it while eating, wearing it at other times still offers some protection.
Restaurants are doing their best to keep things 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-sliced lemons. It’s also a good idea to skip buffets or hot bars for now. Instead, order food that’s prepared and served directly to you.
As we all adjust to this new way of life, taking a few simple steps can help us stay safe and feel more comfortable—especially when we’re out enjoying a meal.