As restaurants and bars start to reopen around the area, some are being more cautious and deliberate than others. Some are still in the process of reconfiguring operations to keep patrons and staff safe and healthy, while others opened for outdoor dining when the state first allowed it starting Friday May 15. Some will be more comfortable keeping service on their patio only for the time being, even though the state is allowing indoor dining as of Thursday May 21, especially since news outlets and social media were full of photos of a handful of establishments in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati that were openly defying social distancing, mask-wearing, seating requirements and capacity-limiting.
Governor DeWine is warning these businesses that their liquor licenses may be in jeopardy and the city of Cincinnati is making moves to fine and shut down bars and restaurants that don’t comply with safety standards.
This may leave you thoroughly confused as to who is open for what. Bookmark Cleveland Independents’ website guide to the status of their more than 80 members’ service. Their key indicates whether an eatery is doing carryout, delivery, outdoor dining and/or indoor dining. Check back before you go out for updates.