How New Capacity Restrictions Could Impact Newton Restaurants

NEWTON, MA —Gov. Charlie Baker announced Tuesday new restrictions on businesses ahead of an expected surge in coronavirus cases during the holidays. Starting Saturday, capacity limits at most industries, including restaurants, will be lowered to 25 percent for all businesses for two weeks.

"Today’s announcement may be a relief to restaurants who feared that the governor would bow to growing pressure to close indoor dining," said Newton-Needham Chamber President Greg Reibman in a statement.

Karen Masterson, owner of Johnny's Luncheonette in Newton Centre, said she breathed a sign of relief that the governor did not shut down indoor dining and specifically mentioned that data was informing that decision.

As for how it will impact her restaurant?

"We're all in a bit of a wait and see every week," she said. "This is taking a toll on all of us I'm sure."

She said she's been adhering to health department recommendations and state guidelines, has had plexiglass dividers up for weeks and has been spacing out guests already. It will bring the number of customers permitted inside to 22 people, she said.

"During the week, it won't be as impactful, but there will be some impact on the weekends," she said. "Honestly, [we will do] whatever we need to do to help get us through these next few weeks."

Masterson said she sees a lot of people who live alone or are lonely come to her restaurant to have lunch and is happy to be able to retain that space for them.

Baker said he plans to present an economic relief fund for businesses Wednesday.

Are you a restaurant owner? Tell us how this is impacting your business: email Jenna.Fisher@Patch.com or comment below.

Read more: Baker Lowers MA Business Capacity Limits Amid Coronavirus Surge

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