The Gay Street Open Air Market is set to be open for another six weeks or so, but as temperatures drop some are going to long for the comfort of the indoors – if they believe it is safe to eat inside. According to research from a recent COVID-19 Travel Sentiment Study only 40 percent of Americans are comfortable dining in local restaurants.
To help protect businesses during the colder months and give customers confidence in the indoor dining experience, Pennsylvania recently launched its Open & Certified campaign. The goal of the campaign is two-fold: allow occupancy levels at restaurants to increase to 50 percent in a safe manner and reassure patrons establishments are adhering to COVID-19 best practices.
“Being a certified business means they are taking every precaution, following all health guidelines, and keeping safety a top priority.”
Open & Certified PA website
However, before restaurants can seat more people inside they must first register with the state’s Open & Certified program self-certifying they are complying with state guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Pennsylvania COVID-19 Prevention Protocols
- Businesses must clearly display COVID-19 safety signage.
- Employees must wear masks at all times, except while on break to eat or drink.
- Business must maintain a social distance of 6 feet between customers including at check-out and counter lines.
- Cashiers must be separated from customers using physical barriers (plexiglass or other).
In addition to safety measures, the state has also restricted alcohol service in an effort to “discourage congregating in a restaurant that provides alcohol.” These measures are specifically targeted at young adults who have seen their case numbers rise lately.
- Alcohol should be consumed with a meal while seated
- Alcohol sales must end at 11:00 p.m.
- All alcoholic beverages must be removed from patrons by midnight.
Who’s Certified? Borough of West Chester Restaurants Ready for 50% Indoor Occupancy
As of this writing, there are 39 West Chester restaurants listed in the directory including 18 in the Borough:
- Core de Roma Trattoria
- Gemelli – Artisanal Gelato & Dessert Café
- HOOKAH MATATA
- Jake’s Bar
- Kooma
- Meatball U.
- Mercato
- Pietro’s Prime
- Ryans Pub
- Slow Hand
- Split Rail Tavern
- Square Bar
- Sterling Pig Public House
- Teca Restaurant
- Classic Diner
- The Couch Tomato Café
- The Original Spence Cafe
- West Chester Golf & Country Club
As this listing is likely to get dated quickly, you can find a link to the full directory here.
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