Coronavirus: Smithfield Virtual Restaurant Relaunch Meeting

SMITHFIELD, RI — As Rhode Island residents look forward to the hopeful end to the state's new coronavirus stay-at-home order on Friday, and the gradual reopening of the economy, restaurants face a challenge of expanding their services back beyond takeout and delivery, while adhering to the social distancing and public gathering limits that are likely to be in place for some type.

Gov. Gina Raimondo has outlined a slow, phased-in reopening of the economy that could include additional outdoor seating for dine-in services at restaurants within the next three weeks, and incremental easing of some customer limits in the following weeks. She even suggested during her Wednesday news conference that additional revenue streams — such as mixed-drinks to go in secure cups — may be considered to help bolster revenue.

However, in businesses that rely on slim profit margins and capacity service, there are questions whether they partial approach will be enough to save many businesses that have been taking a crushing hit since March.

On Thursday, the Smithfield Town Council will solicit input from town restaurant owners on how it can help the businesses navigate in the incredibly challenging reopening process.

Coronavirus in Rhode Island: Latest headlines

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