Ambler Closing Butler For Socially Distanced Restaurant Weekend

AMBLER, PA — The new coronavirus has the whole world in flux, but that isn’t stopping Ambler from hosting its usual celebration of the town's restaurants.

In order to protect patrons and prevent the spread of illness, this year’s Restaurant Week has become a three-day "Restaurant Weekend," and it will be held outdoors on Butler Avenue.

Ambler Main Street Manager Elizabeth Wahl Kunzier told Patch Butler Avenue will be closed to cars during the event to allow for socially distanced outdoor seating.

The decision to shorten the event was made by participating restaurants, Wahl Kunzier said. Several restaurants had to lay off staff members because of closures and dining limitations, and owners said they feared a week of increased business could be overwhelming.

Although Butler Avenue will be closed to cars starting at 5 p.m. on July 24, parking will still be available in the area, the Main Street manager said. The main parking lots at Lindenwold and Cavalier will remain open.

Restaurant weekend will be held from Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26. The event’s hours are scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. each day, but Wahl Kunzier said restaurants can continue serving outside of those hours.

Patrons should note the street closure will be lifted at 8 p.m. on Sunday, and cars will return to Butler Avenue at that time.

Wahl Kunzier said all the restaurants in the borough are participating. Restaurant workers have been reminded to wear masks and gloves and practice social distancing during the Restaurant Weekend, as well as during the entire coronavirus pandemic.