How Will Dining Restrictions Impact Glen Rock Bars, Restaurants?

GLEN ROCK, NJ — Earlier this week, Gov. Phil Murphy clarified new regulations for bars, restaurants and other businesses as coronavirus cases and hospitalizations rise across the state.

In Glen Rock, the regulations, which include limited operating hours for indoor dining, were met with a combination of concern for business owners, but also a sense of relief that they didn't go further, according to Mayor Kristine Morieko.

"It is an interesting development," said Morieko, who had just gotten off a call with state mayors and the governor. "[I] was pleased to hear so many fellow mayors voicing concern for our local businesses."

"That being said, I also appreciate that the outdoor dining and take out aspects will NOT be affected by the 10pm curfew," she continued, adding that it seemed to her like the regulations were more focused on the "after hours crowd."

New regulations for restaurants, bars, clubs, lounges and casinos include:

• Businesses that serve food or drinks will not be able to operate their indoor premises between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
• Outdoor dining can continue after 10 p.m., as can takeout and delivery services.
• Casinos will not be able to serve food or drinks between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for room service delivered to guest rooms and takeout.
• Seating at the physical bar in the indoor areas of bars and restaurants will be prohibited during all operating hours.

Taking into account the impact this could have on restaurants with small seating areas, Murphy said these new restrictions allow groups to be seated at tables indoors that are closer than six feet together, but they must be separated by a barrier.

Additionally, restaurants can set up plastic domes outdoors, limited to one group inside each at a time.

READ MORE: Gov. Murphy Clarifies New Rules For NJ Indoor Dining, Barbers