Restaurants In The Caldwells Can Reopen Outdoors (See The Rules)

CALDWELLS, NJ — Gov. Phil Murphy says that New Jersey’s restaurants can start to reopen from the coronavirus shutdown and serve customers outdoors on June 15. So what will the grand reopening look like in the Caldwells?

Since mid-March, Murphy has ordered that restaurants offer takeout and delivery only. But as part of the state’s three-phase plan to reopen, restaurants will be allowed to serve a limited number of dine-in customers at 6 a.m. on Monday – as long as they sit outdoors.

Customers will still be banned from eating inside the restaurant, and must wear face masks if they go inside to use the bathroom or pick up a takeout order. Patrons with “medical reasons” or children under two don’t have to wear masks.

There are a few other rules, according to the governor’s office. Some include:

• Tables must be located 6 feet from each other
• Only eight customers are allowed at each table
• Employees must wear face masks and pass daily health checks
• No self-service options such as buffets, salad bars or drink stations are allowed
• All tables, chairs and menus must be disinfected after each use
• Signs must be posted at the entrance that say nobody with a fever or symptoms of COVID-19 should enter

Each city or town can decide for itself how to let restaurants and bars safely open outdoors, whether it’s on a sidewalk, in a street or at a park.

Restaurants with liquor licenses can apply for temporary permission to set up outdoor drinking areas with the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). It’s the responsibility of the licensee to comply with local ordinances and site plan requirements.

• Read the full text of executive order 150
• Read the New Jersey Department of Health guidelines for outdoor dining

REOPENING RESTAURANTS IN THE CALDWELLS

In support of Governor Murphy’s executive order, which permits outdoor dining at restaurants, West Caldwell has agreed to temporarily allow outdoor dining at restaurants within the borough.

According to officials, any business wishing to provide outdoor dining must complete and submit an application. The application can be downloaded here. Copies are also available in the lobby at Town Hall at 30 Clinton Road. All applications and questions should be directed to Linda Korfmann, Land Use Administrator.

At least one restaurant in the Caldwells has already announced plans to reopen outdoors on Monday. (Have plans to reopen outdoors? Share them in the comments section below!)

According to Calandra's Italian Village in Caldwell:

"Calandra's Italian Village in Caldwell is gearing up to open for outdoor dining on June 15th! We're getting ready to welcome everyone back with many safety precautions in place so that our guests can have the cleanest and healthiest experience. We are already accepting reservations for June 15 and beyond, call today at 973-226-8889 opt.1 :) Our outdoor dining area is the perfect airy, fresh, and welcoming place to enjoy your favorite Italian meals - we can't wait to welcome everyone back! Calandra's Italian Village, 234 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell NJ 07006."

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