Barnegat, Manahawkin Restaurants Reopen For Indoor Dining

BARNEGAT, NJ — When New Jersey began allowing outdoor dining, it didn't make much of a difference for establishments like Bella’s Café & Restaurant in Barnegat. They simply didn't have the space for accommodating guests outdoors, according to owner Mark T. Falk.

But Friday represented a new day for Bella’s and restaurants around Barnegat and Manahawkin. After nearly six months of waiting, New Jersey restaurants can operate indoors at limited capacity.

After Bella’s took several safety precautions as it prepared to reopen to diners at 4 p.m. Friday. They installed new screen doors for better circulation, and they also made contactless menu options available.

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The Stafford Diner has also reopened. Mayor Greg Myhre and Council President Bob Henken already enjoyed a meal there Friday morning.

Not every restaurant has decided to reopen for indoor dining yet though. Pietro's Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria opted to delay the opening of its dining room.

"We will look into it at a further date," the business wrote on Facebook. "We will keep everyone posted as to when we will choose to reopen indoor dining. We are still offering delivery and takeout at this time."

Do you plan to dine indoors somewhere locally? If so, where? Restaurant owners, feel free to share your updates in the comments below.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus, Reopen Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

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