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November 6, 2020

CT Restaurants face additional restrictions today as state dials back reopening

PHOTO | CONTRIBUTED CRA’s Scott Dolch (far right) with Sen. Richard Blumenthal at Olio Restaurant & Bar in Groton.
By Sean Teehan

Connecticut will begin imposing tighter restrictions on restaurants today, as the state rolls back its reopening due to spiking COVID-19 infection rates.

Under the new restrictions, restaurants must end service by 9:30 p.m., and close by 10 p.m., according to guidelines posted by Gov. Ned Lamont's administration. 

Capacity will be limited to 50% (from the 75% previously allowed), and parties must sit at least six feet from each other (or be separated by non-porous barriers). A maximum of eight people will be allowed to sit at each table.

The new rules go into effect less than a month after Connecticut entered "phase 3" of its reopening process.

Restaurateurs in the state have long asked Lamont to increase capacity at restaurants, with Connecticut Restaurant Association Executive Director Scott Dolch pointing out that eateries here are largely operating safely and within state guidelines. 

Following a complete shutdown of the dine-in restaurant industry when COVID-19 began infecting residents and spreading nationwide, Connecticut eateries began a slow reopening process in May. 

In recent months, restaurants have been pumping up their takeout operations, spending money to set up and break down outdoor tables and chairs each day, and figuring out new ways to offer customers an enjoyable dining experience, while still following health-and-safety guidelines.

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